How to Choose the Right Storage Shelter: An Ultimate Guide

A storage shelter provides additional space to store your tools, equipment, and seasonal supplies. It keeps your items organized and protected from the elements. However, it is often challenging to choose the right storage shelter when there are a lot of options out there.

In this article, we will provide the ultimate guide to choosing the best storage shelter.

Let’s get started.

1. Identify what you will store

Before you purchase a storage shelter, identify what you plan to store. This helps you choose the right size, material, and structure, avoiding unnecessary costs or future limitations.

Here are some ideas for your reference.

Large items
Think about the biggest things you will store—vehicles, tractors, trailers, boats, or construction equipment. These determine the minimum width, peak height, and door clearance you need.

Seasonal supplies
Patio furniture, pool supplies, camping gear, and holiday decorations can take up significant space during off-seasons. Make sure to account for their volume.

Tools and equipment
Include both small tools and larger machines like pressure washers, air compressors, or lawn mowers. These items need dedicated space and convenient access points.

Materials
If you plan to store feed, hay, firewood, or inventory, consider a shelter with a stronger frame and better waterproofing.

Chemicals or moisture-sensitive items
They could be fertilizers, chemicals, or items that are sensitive to moisture and temperature changes. These items often require proper ventilation and protection from sunlight. If they are in your stored items list, you had better go with a vented and UV resistant storage shelter. 

2. Determine the size

Storage shelters come in various sizes, ranging from 20x20 ft to 70x120 ft. The right storage shelter should accommodate the largest items you plan to store. Measure the length, width, and height of your largest items, and make sure they can go into the shelter. Then ensure there is 1 to 2 feet of space around the stored items so you can walk inside, access tools, and move equipment without frustration.

It is also worth noting that you should factor in your future storage needs when determining the size. A 20x20 ft storage shelter might be enough for your small equipment currently, what if you consider storing a large RV in the future?

3. Consider the cost

The cost of a storage shelter ranges from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands. It varies according to the size, material, and features. Though it is temping to select the affordable one, a slightly expensive storage shelter may provide long-term values.  

4. Choose the material

Most storage shelters use either PE or PVC fabric. PE is lightweight, easy to handle, and suitable for general storage in mild to moderate weather. PVC, on the other hand, is thicker, stronger, and more resistant to water, UV, and abrasion. It can also withstand harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for long-term or heavy-duty use. Additionally, PVC fabric is fire retardant, improving the safety in the environment with fire risks.

You should also pay attention to the frame material. Galvanized steel is often used to build the shelter frame. The thicker the steel tube, the stronger the shelter. 

5. Check the weather ratings

Weather ratings are one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a storage shelter. Always review the shelter’s wind load and snow load to ensure it can handle the conditions in your area.

Wind load

Wind load is how much wind speed a building can withstand without collapsing or being damaged. If a storage shelter has a wind load rating of 50 mph, it means that the storage shelter can safely withstand wind speeds up to 50 miles per hour. A higher number indicates a stronger structure.

Snow load

Snow load rating is often measured in pounds per square foot. It tells you the maximum weight from accumulated snow the shelter can support. If you live somewhere with heavy snow, choose a storage shelter with higher snow loads so it won’t sag or collapse.

6. Confirm whether you need a permit

A large fabric storage building may require a permit in many regions. For different sizes, structures, and use purposes, the requirements also vary. Some municipalities or homeowners’ associations even have restrictions on the snow and wind rating. Failing to meet their standards can cause a delay in the installation. So consult your local building department and community before you make the purchase.

7. Explore the custom options

Optionally, you can customize a storage shelter if you don’t find the right one. Custom storage shelters usually cost more and take longer time to ship. However, they are more detail-crafted, built exactly to your specific needs.

At Chery Industrial, we offer a wide range of storage shelters in different sizes, styles, and features. Our Gold Mountain storage shelters are made with heavy duty galvanized steel. Both high-grade PE and PVC fabrics are available for choice. We also provide custom options based on your demands. Most importantly, our custom fabric shelters are still affordable without compromise on quality. Explore our storage shelters for sale today! And feel free to contact us if you have any questions.