How to Install Garage Shelves
2026/03/06
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An untidy garage can be a source of stress, making it difficult to locate valuables and making said valuables more prone to loss and damage. BiGDUG’s garage shelving is an easy organisation solution, allowing you to keep your items within easy reach while maximising floor space.
In this guide, our storage experts will explain how to install our garage shelves.
Choosing the Right Garage Shelving
Before proceeding with your garage shelving installation, it’s important to select the right unit for your space. Consider the amount of room you have and what items you’ll be storing. For further guidance, read our Garage Shelving Buying Guide.
How to Install Garage Shelves
All of BiGDUG’s garage shelving units feature boltless frames to facilitate assembly and disassembly should you ever need to reconfigure your space. No need for specialist tools or equipment; simply use a rubber assembly mallet to tap everything into place.
What You'll Need
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
- Consult your shelving unit’s assembly guide, which will feature illustrations to make the process easier
- If the shelving comes with steel or rubber feet, place them at the base of all uprights.
- Insert a set of side beams to each pair of uprights until you create two ‘ladder-style’ frames. We recommend using the first frame as a template for the other to get the right spacing.
- Tap two long beams at the lowest required point of either ladder frame to create a base frame.
- If the shelving has a central beam, like our BiG400 Garage Shelving Kit, tap it in place to prevent the shelf levels from sagging.
- Add the remaining long beams at your required heights until they’re all connected to the uprights.
- Slide each shelf deck into place, tapping with the mallet to slot them in securely.
- If your shelving comes with wall fixings or steel feet, we recommend using them to secure your shelving. Alternatively, you can buy them separately.
Can I Install Garage Shelving Myself?
The shelves themselves are usually very straightforward to install. Some may require tools such as drills and screwdrivers, while others might use simpler methods like snap-together assembly. For example, our very own BiG340 Shelving range involves boltless assembly where you just tap the unit together!
All shelving units come supplied with easy-to-follow assembly instructions, and many have video guides available too. Check out this video on our BiGDUG Heavy-Duty Garage Shelving to see just how simple it is to put together.
Key Considerations When Installing Garage Shelving
- Preparation: When installing any type of shelving planning and preparation can go a long way. Gather the necessary tools (most are provided with shelving – refer to instruction manuals for provided equipment) which may include a mallet, drill, anchors, screws, and other bits.
- Safety: Safety equipment such as goggles and gloves may be needed. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure you stay safe.
- Installation: During installation, it is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the shelves are properly assembled and provide the strength and stability you paid for! Some garage shelving units involve a simple tap-together assembly while others may require more complex steps such as securing shelves to wall studs.
- Extra Stability: Ensure that the shelves are level and securely anchored to the wall for stability. Using the appropriate anchors for your wall type (such as plasterboard or concrete) is essential for a secure fit.
- Final Checks: Always double-check the weight limits and load capacities to prevent overloading and potential damage.
Popular BiGDUG Shelving Solutions
Check out some of our best-selling shelving units here at BiGDUG...
BiGDUG’s Top Tips for an Efficient Garage Setup
- Use storage boxes or pick bins to maximise storage space.
- If you need to expand or adjust storage space, use tie plates to connect multiple bays or readjust the shelves’ heights by inserting them in different keyholes.
- Before installing the shelving, consider putting down garage flooring to protect your floors.
Shop BiGDUG’s Range of Garage Shelving
Upgrade your garage with BiGDUG’s range of garage shelving. From galvanised shelving to over-car shelves and our heavy-duty BiG400 range, our collection caters to various spaces and applications.
If you require a bespoke shelving system, get in touch with our Business Solutions team to assess your requirements and come up with a tailored solution. For anything else, please contact us.
Contact Us
Looking for a bespoke solution? Speak to our Business Solutions team to find out more.