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The 14 Best Garage Storage Systems of 2024

Keep tools and gear organized and optimize your space

A garage storage system we recommend on a green background

The Spruce / Amelia Manley

Keeping your tools, bikes, and holiday decor organized is easy with the right garage storage system.

When looking for the right storage solution, consider what you want to store and your garage layout to determine the best type and functionality you need. “The process that I work through with my clients is sorting, purging, organizing, and laying out the space,” said Jessica Terenyi, professional organizer and coach at JK Organizing, LLC. “Also, consider vertical space so that you can clear that floor space.”

We spent hours researching the best garage storage systems on the market, evaluating ease of assembly and use, storage capacity, versatility, and value. Here are the best garage storage systems to keep everything organized and within reach.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Husky Steel Garage Cabinet Set

Husky Steel Garage Cabinet Set, 6-Piece

Home Depot

What We Like
  • Durable materials

  • Adjustable storage

  • Shelves, cabinet, and pegboard

What We Don't Like
  • Assembly required

For versatile storage that provides a place for everything from small hand tools to soccer balls and holiday wreaths, the Husky six-piece cabinet set is a great option. We love that it is very adjustable, with two open shelves, a shelf in the bottom cabinet, adjustable feet to get a level work surface and small trays for items you need to keep on hand.

The metal cabinet, pegboard, and shelves are made of powder-coated steel, so it is great for garage spaces that see all temperatures throughout the year. The flat workspace is made of hardwood that is sealed to prevent staining. It does require assembly, but it includes helpful instructions and diagrams as well as all of the tools you may need.

The cabinet set is a bit pricey for its size, and you will need to purchase pegboard accessories separately. But for a versatile option that will last for years, even in hot or cold climates, the cost is worth the durability.

Dimensions: 53 x 69.5 x 19.5 inches | Material: Steel and wood | Weight Capacity: 150 pounds (interior shelf) | Ease of Installation: Assembly required

Best Budget

Imillet Wall Mounted Organizer

Imillet Wall Mounted Organizer

Amazon

What We Like
  • Comes in a packs of one or two

  • Keeps long-handled and small tools off the floor

  • Everything is easily accessible

What We Don't Like
  • Not great for odd-shaped items

  • Requires studs or wall anchors for hanging

Most garages have a wayward tool, rake, or shovel. The Imillet Wall Mounted Organizer keeps them in place without costing a fortune. It comes in a pack of one or two, with spots to secure five long-handled tools and hang six smaller tools in each organizer. Each slot is kept in place by a spring and has anti-slip rubber that makes sure even heavy tools are secure.

It can support tools up to 6.5 pounds, although you should be sure to hang it using studs or wall anchors to keep the organizer from failing. When hanging things from the organizer, they will still be in view. While it's not the best option if you want to keep everything concealed, it’s great if you want to keep everything easily accessible.

This organizer is ideal for items like leaf rakes and shovels that are flat—weed-whackers and other odd-shaped tools may reduce the overall storage capacity if they keep other things from hanging safely. We think this organizer would also be great for storing items inside, like brooms, mops, and other household cleaning tools.

Dimensions: 16.75 x 2.36 x 3.15 inches | Material: Plastic | Weight Capacity: 6.5 pounds | Ease of Installation: Wall-mounted

Best Modular System

Rubbermaid FastTrack Garage Wall-Mounted Storage Kit

Rubbermaid 20-Piece FastTrack Garage Wall-Mounted Storage Kit

Amazon

What We Like
  • FastTrack can be installed once and used in different ways

  • Can reconfigure if storage needs change

  • All-purpose and specialized storage hooks

What We Don't Like
  • No cabinets or drawers

  • Extras add to cost

Customizable, the Rubbermaid FastTrack system is a great option if you want to utilize your wall space as storage. All you need to do is install the FastTrack on your wall using the included hardware. Once the FastTrack is installed, you can customize this system with single hooks, double S-hooks, hanging shelves, and specialized storage for things like garden hoses. If your storage needs change, it is easy to change out the modular elements while still keeping the FastTrack in place.

The 20-piece system is great to start. It includes five rails for the wall and 15 hooks. You can also add to it with additional rails and storage solutions. It is affordable, but extra components do add to the overall cost. It also exclusively uses the wall for storage; there aren’t any freestanding shelves, cabinets, or drawers, so all of your items are in sight, which can create a cluttered look, even if things are organized and put away.

Dimensions: 49 x 13 x 6 inches | Material: Metal | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Ease of Installation: Install FastTrack system on wall

Best for Larger Tools

Craftsman 2000 Series Steel Rolling Tool Cabinet

Craftsman 2000 Series 10-Drawer Steel Rolling Tool Cabinet in Red

Ace Hardware

What We Like
  • Multiple storage drawers

  • Durable material

  • On wheels for portability

What We Don't Like
  • May need additional labels or storage for larger items

The Craftsman 2000 Series tool cabinet has 10 drawers, perfect for separating larger tools, batteries, and hardware. You can use each drawer for a different purpose, such as one for tool sets and another for hardware. It is also a good way to store gardening tools that you may need outdoors, since it is made with durable 18-20 gauge steel. With wheels on the bottom, it is easy to bring the tool chest with you in the garage as well.

You may want to label the drawers since they are not see-through. While this keeps the clutter out of sight, it makes it harder to remember exactly which drawer you need. Since this is a smaller tool cabinet, there aren’t any places to keep long-handled tools or items like rakes and shovels. You may want to combine it with additional wall storage for other needs, which will add to your overall cost.

Dimensions: 41 x 18 x 37.5 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 1,500 pounds | Ease of Installation: Pre-assembled

Best for Battery-Powered Tools

Husky 6-Piece Regular Duty Welded Steel Garage Storage System

Husky 6-Piece Regular Duty Welded Steel Garage Storage System

Home Depot

What We Like
  • Workspace for charging batteries

  • Large and small cabinets and drawers

  • Durable materials

What We Don't Like
  • Takes up a lot of space

This large garage storage system from Husky has cabinets and drawers for your tools and a workbench for charging batteries. You can assemble it and set it up flush with the wall, leaving room to route charging cords to outlets through the large center opening. It is also ideal to hang a pegboard or smaller shelving directly on the wall.

The garage storage system is large at 108 inches wide. It is also quite expensive and best for a garage setup that you plan to use for a long time. Fortunately, it is made of heavy-gauge steel and will last without damage, rust, or warping. It also comes with a lifetime warranty, making the high price tag easier to handle.

Dimensions: 75 x 19 x 108 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 3,284 pounds | Ease of Installation: Pre-assembled

Best for Big Storage

Fleximounts Overhead Garage Storage Rack

Fleximounts Overhead Garage Storage Rack

Walmart

What We Like
  • High weight capacity

  • Keeps floor space clear

  • Adjustable dropdown

What We Don't Like
  • Installation can be difficult

  • Can't be used with metal walls

To keep larger items up and out of the way, the Fleximounts overhead garage storage rack is our top choice. It can hold up to 600 pounds and provides up to 40 inches of clearance from the ceiling. Its adjustable supports allow you to raise them if needed to allow the garage door opener sensor or your vehicle enough overhead room.

Depending on your garage, installation may be difficult and require multiple ladders, so it is best to have two people available. You also need to make sure that you install the rack directly into two wooden studs, which have to be spaced apart at the interval of the two supports. You can’t use it with a metal wall because it will not stay secure and could cause damage or injury if it falls.

“Overhang in your garage can be for your bulkier items that you are packing away, such as tents and camping chairs,” says Terenyi. “But if you’re a regular camper, you may not want to tuck those up high.”

Dimensions: 96 x 48 x 40 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 600 pounds | Ease of Installation: Ceiling-mounted

Best Cabinet System

Seville Classics UltraHD Steel Heavy-Duty Storage Cabinet

seville-classics-ultra-hd-steel-heavy-duty-storage-cabinet

Amazon

What We Like
  • Adjustable shelving

  • Can be combined with other units

  • Durable steel

What We Don't Like
  • Additional components sold separately

The shelving in the Seville Classics cabinet is adjustable, with four interior shelves that can hold a total of 600 pounds. The cabinet is made of durable steel and can be locked as well as wheeled around. Just keep in mind that it may be challenging to move the cabinet once it is full. The wheels themselves are 5 inches in diameter, and two of them lock so that you never need to worry about the cabinet moving, especially if your floors are not even.

Assembly is required and best done with two people because of the cabinet’s height. There are other cabinets in the collection, including some that hang on the wall, some with open shelving built in, and some with drawers and workbenches. You can create a custom workspace for your garage, although the overall cost may be pricey when you consider how many things come separately.

Dimensions: 18 x 36 x 72 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 600 pounds | Ease of Installation: Assembly required

Best with Work Bench

Seville Classics Lighted Workbench

Seville Classics Lighted Workbench

Amazon

What We Like
  • Workspace with storage

  • Durable materials

  • Drawer liners included

What We Don't Like
  • Assembly required

  • Single-person workspace

If you need a workspace in your garage, the Seville Classics lighted workbench is an affordable solution that is ideal for keeping hand tools nearby as you work. It has a built-in pegboard behind a steel work station, as well as drawers underneath and a small shelf at the very top. It also comes with small helpful details to make your workspace more efficient, including adjustable feet to ensure a level surface and drawer liners that keep things from rolling around inside.

Although some assembly is required, Seville Classics includes helpful instructions and maintain an assembly support and customer service phone line. However, this system is not very large and doesn’t have any tall cabinets, which means that you can’t easily store large, bulky items or tools, but it also makes assembly a bit easier for one person to accomplish.

Dimensions: 48 x 24 x 65.5 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 500 pounds | Ease of Installation: Moderate

Best for Storing Seasonal Items

Sterilite Garage Totes

Sterilite Garage Totes

The Container Store

What We Like
  • Both sizes are stackable

  • Opaque so that you can see inside

  • Locking handles

What We Don't Like
  • Lids can pop off if overpacked

  • Larger size can be heavy to move

Keeping track of your holiday decor is easy with the right storage solutions. The Sterilite garage totes are opaque but still see-through enough to know what is inside. They can be stacked on top of each other or used on heavy-duty shelving to keep things organized by season. The lids have locking handles that keep them from popping off unexpectedly as you move the totes. If you overpack the totes, however, the locking handles might not be strong enough to keep the lids in place.

The 50-quart size is good for large, but lightweight items. Keep in mind that filling the entire thing with heavy decor could make it harder to move. Sterilite also makes a 25-quart option that has the same footprint but is not as high, which allows you to stack both sizes together while organizing items of different sizes.

Dimensions: 19.875 x 15.5 x 14.75 inches | Material: Plastic | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Ease of Installation: Not applicable

Best Shelves

Amazon Basics 3-Shelf Adjustable Shelving

Amazon Basics 3-Shelf Adjustable Shelving

Amazon

What We Like
  • Multiple sizes and heights available

  • High weight capacity

  • Maximizes vertical space

What We Don't Like
  • Assembly required

  • Open wire shelving not great for small items

If you are planning on organizing items on shelves in your garage, Terenyi notes, "Think of different activities that you’re involved in, and keep those items accessible.” We like this three-shelf option because it is wide and deep, capable of holding larger bins of holiday decor or tools. At 30 inches high, it is short enough to allow for wall hooks or tall items on top, which maximizes vertical space while still keeping things accessible.

These steel shelves are affordable and easy to put together, and they can hold up to 250 pounds per shelf. They come in chrome or black and in five different sizes. The wire shelving has 1-inch spaces between each wire, so depending on your storage needs, you may need to lay down plywood to keep small objects and items from slipping through. The set comes with an Allen wrench to assemble the shelves, and it can be helpful to have two people to make sure that they are even.

Dimensions: 23.3 x 13.4 x 30 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds per shelf | Ease of Installation: Assembly required

Best for Small Items

Akro-Mills 24-Drawer Plastic Storage

Akro-Mills 24-Drawer Plastic Storage

Amazon

What We Like
  • Enough drawers to separate items

  • Drawers are see-through

  • Easy to label

What We Don't Like
  • Work bench or workspace sold separately

  • Small size

To keep small things like screws, nails, and other hardware organized, we love drawer storage made just for that task. The Akro-Mills storage bin has 24 small drawers so that you can organize by type and size. They are see-through, making it easy to know what is inside. The drawers also have angled pulls that can be easily labeled with the exact specifications.

To keep the drawers accessible, it is best to use them on a workbench or other raised surface. You will need to purchase that separately if you do not already have a good setup. The drawers themselves are very affordable, but adding the need for a place to keep them could hike up the overall cost considerably.

Dimensions: 6 x 20 x 16 inches | Material: Plastic | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Ease of Installation: Not applicable

Best for Maximizing Wall Space

StoreYourBoard Tool Storage Rack

StoreYourBoard BLAT Tool Storage Rack

Amazon

What We Like
  • Hooks can store multiple tools each

  • Each hook has a high weight capacity

  • Keeps tools accessible

What We Don't Like
  • Requires wooden studs

  • Drill needed for installation

Putting tools on the wall is so much more efficient than leaning them against things in your garage or letting them take up floor space. The StoreYourBoard BLAT Tool Storage Rack has extra-deep hooks so you can store multiple shovels, rakes, and other long-handled tools within one. It is perfect for keeping tools of multiple sizes organized and accessible. Each hook can hold up to 325 pounds, far more than most tools weigh.

You will need to install it directly into the studs of your home. It comes with the required hardware, but you will need a power drill to effectively hang it up. It does not have any drawers or shelving for smaller items. Instead, it is made to use the wall space available to hang things. That makes them easy to grab but does keep them out in the open.

Dimensions: 37 x 10 x 3.25 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 325 pounds | Ease of Installation: Need to install directly on studs

Best Freestanding

Dewalt 3-Shelf Industrial Storage Rack

Dewalt 3-Shelf Industrial Storage Rack

Amazon

What We Like
  • High weight capacity

  • Solid shelving

  • Durable materials

What We Don't Like
  • Assembly required or is costly

The Dewalt industrial storage rack is super durable, perfect for keeping in a garage that experiences a variety of temperatures. And if you want something that you can take when you move, this is a good option. The shelves are solid, so you won’t need to worry about storing small items and having them slip through open wire shelving. Each one can support up to 1,500 pounds when evenly distributed, making them ideal for heavy items as well.

It does require assembly but comes with all of the hardware that you need. You can pay for expert assembly if you don’t want to worry about putting it together, although that adds considerably to the price. It is not cheap, although the powder-coated steel construction and super-high weight capacity make it one of the most versatile and durable storage options.

Dimensions: 48 x 18.75 x 4.88 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 4,500 pounds | Ease of Installation: Assembly required, hardware included

Best Rolling

Amazon Basics 3-Shelf Rolling Shelving Unit

Amazon Basics 3-Shelf Rolling Shelving Unit

Amazon

What We Like
  • Adjustable shelves

  • Can be used with or without wheels

What We Don't Like
  • Using wheels decreases weight capacity

  • Assembly required

This storage solution combines the convenient wire shelving and affordability of Amazon Basics with castor wheels. Each shelf can support up to 250 pounds if the wheels are not installed, although that decreases to just 73 pounds when the wheels are on. When in motion, it is only safe to store 50 pounds on each shelf.

This shelving unit does require assembly but it is relatively easy, especially for the three-shelf option. If you opt for something larger, such as the four-shelf or five-shelf model, it may be helpful to have two people for assembly. One of the best things about the wheeled shelf is its budget-friendly price. You can use it with or without the wheels and adjust the shelves, getting multiple options with one affordable purchase.

Dimensions: 23.2 x 13.4 x 32.75 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds per shelf | Ease of Installation: Assembly required

Final Verdict

Our best overall pick, the Husky 6-Piece Steel Garage Cabinet Set, has a little bit of all types of storage, including shelving, cabinets, a pegboard, and a work surface. For a more budget-friendly option that keeps tools organized and frees up floor space, consider the Imillet Wall Mounted Organizer, our best budget pick. It can hold lawn care items, such as rakes, small shovels, mops, and other tools.

What to Look for in a Garage Storage System

Type

Garage storage systems can be modular, overhead racks, pegboards, cabinets and drawers, or rolling. Most are wall-mounted, but there are also freestanding systems that you can easily take with you when you get a new home or even move around your garage as you work. Look for one that fits your available space and storage needs. Our best overall pick, the Husky 6-Piece Steel Garage Cabinet Set, is adjustable and has a pegboard, cabinet, and drawers to organize different types of items.

Storage Capacity

Size and capacity are the hardest to find when you want to store large or bulky items. Look for a storage system that provides enough height and depth. Adjustable systems with shelving are a great way to store large items, because you can simply remove or reposition a shelf as needed. Especially small items should be stored in drawers, but look for ones that suit your needs. If you have a lot of similar small items but want to separate them, you may want multiple drawers that can be labeled, such as the Akro-Mils Drawer Plastic Parts Storage, our best for small items pick.

Durability

Garages are not typically heated or cooled like the rest of your home, making durable materials that can withstand some changes in temperature key when you are selecting storage systems that will last. Terenyi also recommends evaluating individual items that you plan to keep in your garage. “Consider weather elements. Oftentimes, our garages are going to take all the heat and cold, so consider if you get a lot of seasons, and if you have delicate items, store them inside.”

Functionality

Adjustability is helpful, especially if you think that your garage storage needs will change over time. If you have young children, you might need to organize a lot of bikes, scooters, and bulky items. As they grow, it can change into sports equipment that needs to be stored differently. You should also consider weight capacity of shelving, especially if you have small items that are very heavy.

Ease of Installation

A lot of garage storage systems require assembly, but some also need to be installed. Wall-mounted systems require specific mounting hardware that can support their weight and keep your walls and home from being damaged. You might need to get help from a pro or someone with experience locating studs in your walls to make sure that you install them in the right place.

FAQ
  • How can I organize my garage better?

    One of the first things you need to do is look at the actual available space. Finding the right storage solution often means working with the space that you have. You should also consider what your storage needs are before deciding on a system. If you have a lot of small items, your ideal storage will be different from those with bulkier things that take up a lot of space.

    “Take pictures and measurements,” said Terenyi. “Always make sure you’re measuring before you buy. And use before and after pictures to celebrate your win of a newly organized garage.”

  • How do I maximize my garage storage space?

    “Vertical is key,” said Terenyi. “A lot of times, we have all of this great space, but it’s floor to ceiling. You can create so many great systems.” Using wall systems allows you to hang things from hooks, use tracks to create custom storage, and keep even long-handled tools where they need to be. Overhead storage racks are also helpful, but you should remember to watch for sensors that should be kept clear.

  • How deep should garage shelves be?

    Most garage shelving is between 12 and 24 inches deep. If you plan to use storage bins, make sure that your shelving is at least as deep as the bin so that it does not hang off the edge. Not only is that unsightly, it can create a safety hazard if the bin topples off.

  • Do steel garage cabinets rust?

    The best garage storage cabinets are powder-coated or made with a rust-resistant steel alloy that does not include ferrous metal. You should look for a storage system that is made to withstand some humidity as well as changes in temperature. Look at the hardware that is used to assemble the cabinet, since it may need to be replaced more frequently if it is not made with the same rust-resistant material.

The Checkout Counter

Before you check out, consider these products that might also help you improve your garage space.

  1. Mr. Heater Big Buddy Propane Heater: An organized garage can give you space for tackling DIY projects on your to-do list—make it warm enough to hang out in year-round. We tested this garage heater and found it quiet, effective, lightweight, and overall a great portable option.
  2. Dewalt TSTAK Deep Toolbox: If you choose a shelving rack from the list above, you'll need a great toolbox to keep your tools organized. This durable option can fit on the shelf (just check the dimensions of the shelf you choose), and can fit a variety of tool sizes.
  3. Lehigh Group Pegboard Tool and Parts Tray: This tray is a great way to keep tools and small parts accessible if your storage solution has a pegboard. It has four different compartments and can hold 12 tools. It fits pegboard holes of 1/4 inch in size.
  4. Genie Smart Garage Door Opener: Improve the accessibility of your garage with a great garage opener. We love this option because it has smart features, a powerful motor, and a battery backup in case of any power outages.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was researched and written by Katie Melynn, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. She has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. To compile this list, she considered the best options for different garage setups as well as storage needs.

Our Experts:

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