Known as the big heavy-duty brother of the Shed-in-a-Box, the ShelterLogic Garage-in-a-Box is made for protecting much larger vehicles and as a huge storage unit.
It’s essentially a soft top shade canopy carport, and it can be used either temporarily or as a more permanent structure. To set up in your driveway or out in your backyard, it’s a great alternative to an expensive brick garage.
Table could not be displayed.This particular model has gained popularity since its release, but obviously a portable shelter like this is no impulse buy, so we need the complete lowdown, not just a short product description.
Today we’re conducting a thorough review on this model to find out what it’s all about. We’re uncovering how its features make it standout amongst competitors, whether it lives up to its quality claims, and every little detail you need to know.
Page Contents:
ShelterLogic Garage in a Box – Full Review
The Traditional Peak Roof Design
Our First Thoughts
As a much cheaper alternative to hard top carports, this garage seems like a reliable option. The robust steel frame and triple-layered outer fabric make it a practical and durable choice to withstand all kinds of weather. We rank this as a mid-range model, meaning it’s not super low cost but it’s also not overly expensive.
For the quality and reasonable reviews online, it appears that it sits in the middle. It’s undoubtedly not a flimsy or weak shelter that you’ll find at most retailers for a dirt-cheap price, but it’s also not a high-end extremely heavy-duty model.
We’ve seen many user comments stating that this can be so much more than just a carport. With its minimal design, it appears as a very classically shaped outdoor shelter that can work in any setting. We can envision this being set up in a backyard used as a cover for outdoor dining, relaxing, and other events.
Important Specs at a Glance
| Type
Portable Garage |
Dimensions (Multiple Sizes)
240”L x 144”W x 103”H |
| Weight
135 lbs |
Price
In the region of $450 – $600+ depending on size and design |
| Set Up Time
2 Hours or more |
Add-Ons
15” Auger Anchors & Step-by-Step Instructions Included |
| Materials
Steel Frame Polyethylene Canopy |
Replacement Covers
Available, Peaked Roof, Rounded Roof |
Overview of Features
- Top-grade 1-3/8” thick steel frame
- Triple-layered ripstop polyethylene cover
- Heat sealed seams
- Water & rust proof
- UV treated material
- Patented ShelterLock stabilizers for increased durability
- Innovative ratchet tensioning system
- 4 season protection
- Free 30” auger anchors included
What We Love – Our Top 3 Features
The Rounded Roof Variant
GOLD QUALITY – Tension
One of the most exciting features is the Rachet Tite System used for most ShelterLogic models. It’s basically a tensioning system that creates a very tight fit over the interior frame. It ensures that the exterior fabric is as taut as possible so that nothing can sag or fall on top of your vehicle (or whatever else you have stored inside).
Cross Beams Provide a Rigid Hold
It’s made up of a rugged steel ratchet hook with tough webbing, efficiently connecting to the anchors with strong S-hooks. We think it’s a smart design aspect for increasing the stability levels. If you find yourself in a spot of unpredictable weather, this will come as a lifesaver for holding things down so that nothing flies away.
SILVER FEATURE – Side Protection
Even though we do love simpler roof-only carports, there is something about this more traditional 4-wall design that speaks to us. While both kinds of models have their advantages and disadvantages, it’s obvious that the fully closable versions provide more protection. We think that roof-only ones are perfect for the warmer months, but when it comes to winter, you’ll want something that will shield your belongings from all sides.
Fully Enclosed and Large Enough for a Truck
Particularly if you live in a location with snow and lots of rain, a boxed-in model will give you much better peace of mind. The interior contents are protected from all angles, with the option to also completely close off the front entrance. While you may not be getting as much ventilation as open models, you can leave the door unrolled to let some air in.
BRONZE HIGHLIGHT – Triple Layers
Another one of our favorite features is the multilayered fabric used as the main part of the structure. While PE material is quite robust by itself, that fact that it’s layered three times makes it very durable.
Spacious Interior with Room to Move Around the Vehicle/Open Doors
It means you’re getting enhanced protection than if it were one or two simple coatings, which in turn increases its weatherproofing abilities. This also contributes to the 4 season performance claims, as we’re certain that sun, rain, snow, and hail will not be getting inside anytime soon.
Main Overview – Breaking Down Every Detail
Increased Stability
Maximum stability is provided here with a huge number of elements that are designed to make things as simple and practical as possible.
The all-steel frame is thick, measuring in at 1-13/8”. This makes the structure super robust and not easily moved by the wind. Next, you’ll find that the footpads are wide and circular, which increases the amount of surface area and creates a steadier frame.
Can Be Pitched on Any Terrain
As we talked about earlier, there is the Rachet Tite System which is a highly durable device that boosts the amount of surface tension for the outer PE textile. Finally, you have the patented ShelterLock stabilisers. These are positioned at each connection point, or joint section, and they make the poles rock solid.
4 Season Performance
For warmer months, the durable PE fabric is completely UV treated on the inside and outside. Plus, it’s integrated with fade blockers – this means that both the outside silver color and your car on the inside won’t experience color fading. When it rains, things will stay bone dry inside as it’s 100% waterproof.
Capable of Lasting All Year Round
Anti-mold properties can also be found in this model, which we think is crucial with these kinds of fabric shelters, as condensation can build-up rather easily. In terms of the poles, they are all powder coated. This greatly reduces the risk of peeling or chipped paint, rust, corrosion, and overall deterioration.
Illuminated Interior
One of the more hidden details on this model, the entire interior has a high-profile white cast. We think it’s a smart design choice, as it serves a couple of purposes that most other shelters don’t think about. If you’ve ever been inside a dark garage and tried to rifle through your belongings, only to bump your leg and hurt yourself on something, you’ll love this feature.
Can Fit Majority of Vehicle Types, SUV, Truck, Jeep etc
The white color creates a reflection, which greatly enhances the visibility inside. If you don’t want to set up a light inside your structure, this is a nice touch. The other purpose for this is that it keeps things cooler inside than if you were to have a darker color. As the sun beats down, you don’t want your car or other vehicle to overheat.
Versatile
You can use this model for things other than a parking spot for motor vehicles. The massive cabin shape provides heaps of ground space, with a tall roof and steep walls.
Use it as a cover for outdoor parties, where it’s large enough to fit a DJ setup, table with food and drinks, and speakers. Another great use is for working on your car.
If your regular garage is already full, you can utilize this extra room for protecting your car while you work your magic. You can do so in wind, rain, or shine, and you’ll be fully shielded.
Most Asked Questions – We’ve Got You Covered
Can You Secure it to Concrete?
You can definitely position this model on concrete or other hard ground. If you decide to do this, we do suggest purchasing some proper concrete anchors separately. While it does come with free anchors in the package, they won’t be suitable for use on concrete ground.
How Tall is the Entrance?
To easily fit sedans and most SUVs and pickup trucks the door opening measures 10ft in width and a height clearance of around 7ft.
Can You Replace the Cover Material?
Yes, it is possible to make an additional purchase to upgrade to the heavy-duty 14.5oz material, rather than the standard 9oz fabric, to replace the original cover.
Our Final Thoughts on the Garage in a Box
In conclusion, we think that the ShelterLogic Garage-in-a-Box is an overall fantastic choice for those looking for a temporary or permanent setup to protect vehicles and other outdoor gear.
Since you’re getting top-grade materials, with a super robust inner framework, plus extras like the free anchors, this model is great value for money.
While the set up is long and requires a lot of effort, it’s worth it since you’re getting a massive structure that’s going to protect you during all seasons.For working on your vehicle, parking, or miscellaneous use like BBQs, picnics, and parties, it’s easy to see why this is such a popular purchase.
