If there’s one thing every home needs, it’s ample storage. Having plenty of storage space means every item you own can have a home, which stops clutter from building up. Metal storage shelves are fairly utilitarian, but tend to be strong, inexpensive, and easy to assemble. They’re great for areas such as garages and basements where function is more important than fashion. However, you can find some more attractive options that work well in kitchens or bathrooms.
We reviewed dozens of metal storage shelves to identify the best of the best. We compared a range of factors including overall storage space, sturdiness, number of shelves, portability, and average reviews.
Following our careful research, it was clear that the AmazonBasics Medium Duty Shelving is our top choice. These reliable storage shelves are extremely strong and can be assembled without any bolts.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Metal Storage Shelves
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Our Top Pick | AmazonBasics Medium Duty Shelving | 4.6 |
| Our Runner Up | Seville Classics 6-Tier Metal Storage Shelf | 4.8 |
| Best Budget Pick | BestOffice 4 Shelf Wire Shelving Unit | 4.6 |
| Best Metal Rack Shelf | AmazonBasics 3-Shelf Shelving Unit | 4.6 |
| Best Heavy Duty Metal Storage Shelf | SafeRacks Commercial-Grade 4-Tier Steel Wire Shelving Rack | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: AmazonBasics Medium Duty Shelving
If you need a strong metal storage shelf and aren’t too concerned with how it looks, you can’t do better than this AmazonBasics Medium Duty Shelving. Despite only being listed as “medium duty,” it’s stronger than some so-called “heavy duty” options, holding up to 800 pounds on each shelf and 4,000 pounds overall. The frame of the shelving unit is made from corrosion-resistant high-grade anodized aluminum with press board shelves.
This metal storage shelf has simple bolt-free assembly, plus you can set the interior shelves to any height (in 1.5 inch increments) to accommodate items of different sizes. It also comes with brackets and cables to anchor it to the wall and prevent tipping. At $161, it costs more than a lot of other metal storage shelves, but it is stronger and sturdier than most.
AmazonBasics Medium Duty Shelving Key Features:
- Five shelf design
- Measures 48 x 18 x 72 inches (though a smaller option is also available)
- Easy to adjust shelves up or down
Our Runner Up Pick: Seville Classics 6-Tier Metal Storage Shelf
The Seville Classics 6-Tier Metal Storage Shelf is an excellent option for those looking to store lighter objects. Made of iron and finished in a satin pewter epoxy powder coat, you can trust that this shelf is built to last. To be clear, this option is actually two lots of three shelves that have been stacked on top of one another, so you have the choice of using it stacked or unstacked.
This shelf is primarily designed to store shoes, and should comfortably fit around 21 pairs altogether. That being said, many customers have successfully used the Seville Classics 6-Tier Metal Storage Shelf to hold a range of objects, from games to paper towels. Just keep in mind that each shelf can only hold a maximum of 30 pounds. Customers have certainly been happy with this product, as exemplified by its incredible average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from nearly 17,000 customers.
Seville Classics 6-Tier Metal Storage Shelf Key Features:
- Made of iron
- Easy to assemble
- Limited 5-year manufacturer’s warranty
Best Budget Metal Storage Shelf: AmazonBasics 3-Shelf Shelving Unit
While the AmazonBasics 3-Shelf Shelving Unit might not be the most attractive shelf in the world, it’s not so ugly that you have to hide it away in the garage. It’s also a bargain at only $32, but it’s worth keeping in mind that it doesn’t include casters. This compact three-shelf model is great for use in bathrooms, kitchens, and offices.
The total weight capabilities depend on whether you opt for casters or no casters. Without casters, it can hold a total of 750 pounds evenly distributed, but with casters in can only hold a maximum of 73 pounds per shelf. This unit is easy to set up and doesn’t require any tools.
AmazonBasics 3-Shelf Shelving Unit Key Features:
- Black and chrome options available
- Shelves adjustable at 1 inch increments
- Measures approximately 23 x 13 x 30 inches
Best Adjustable Metal Storage Shelf: BestOffice 4 Shelf Wire Shelving Unit
In the market for a metal storage shelf that gives you the option to adjust its height? The BestOffice 4 Shelf Wire Shelving Unit is our pick of the bunch. It’s also super sturdy, and can hold up to 250 pounds per shelf, which is an impressive 1,000 pounds in total. What’s more, it’s extremely simple to assemble, taking around 15 minutes with no tools required. It has quite a reasonable price tag of around $67, and is even stronger than some more expensive options.
Measuring 36 x 14 x 54 inches, it’s a little smaller than our Top Pick, but it’s still relatively large and is great for people with more modest storage needs or for use in smaller spaces. It comes with a black powder coated finish, but there’s also a chrome option available.
BestOffice 4 Shelf Wire Shelving Unit Key Features:
- Height adjustable shelves
- Adjustable feet for leveling
- V-shaped mesh increases load-bearing capabilities
Best Heavy Duty Metal Storage Shelf: SafeRacks Commercial-Grade 4-Tier Steel Wire Shelving Rack
If you’ve been searching for the strongest of heavy duty metal storage shelves, your hunt is over. The SafeRacks Commercial-Grade 4-Tier Steel Wire Shelving Rack can take up to 500 pounds per shelf, making it suitable for heavy-duty commercial storage needs. Even if you’re using this rack at home, you can trust it can take heavy loads without a problem. One particularly eye-catching feature this chrome-finished option boasts is that it’s certified by the National Sanitation Foundation. This certification is notable as it makes them safe to use when storing foods and medicines.
Other great features include the fact that it’s simple to assemble and contains 4 wheels for easy transportation as needed. All this doesn’t come cheap, however, as the SafeRacks Commercial-Grade 4-Tier Steel Wire Shelving Rack costs around $160. That being said, you’ll get what you pay for considering its high-quality construction and versatility.
SafeRacks Commercial-Grade 4-Tier Steel Wire Shelving Rack Key Features:
- Certified by the National Sanitation Foundation
- Measures 24 x 48 x 72 inches
- Easy assembly
Who Should Buy a Metal Storage Shelf
If you need additional storage space at home, you should consider buying a metal storage shelf. They might not be the types of shelves you’d use to keep books or display your trinkets in the living room, but they’re ideal for places like garages and basements where you may want to store boxes, camping equipment, car parts, or heavy items.
Some people also use metal rack shelves in kitchens and bathrooms, for storing ingredients, kitchen gadgets, toiletries, or towels.
Important Features to Consider
A metal storage shelf should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a metal storage shelf:
- Number of shelves. The majority of metal storage shelving units feature between three and six shelves, but you can find a handful of models with slightly more or fewer. Choose a number of shelves according to your storage needs.
- Overall dimensions. Check the width, depth, and height of the metal storage shelves you’re considering. Think about how much room you need to store your items, plus the size of the space in which you intend to place it. If it might be a tight squeeze, measure the space to ensure it will fit.
- Adjustable shelves. Some metal storage shelves allow you to adjust the spacing of the interior shelves, which makes it easier to accommodate over-sized items.
- Casters. Some metal storage shelves come on casters so you can easily move them around. There are a few applications for which casters are extremely useful, but most users only need a stationary storage shelf.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight can a metal storage shelf hold?
This depends on which metal storage self you choose. The strongest metal storage shelves can take as much as 2,000 pounds per shelf. On the lower end of the spectrum, some can only hold around 50 pounds per shelf. Consider the weight of the items you want to store and choose accordingly.
How do you assemble a metal storage shelf?
Again, this depends on the make and model of shelving unit that you choose. Many metal storage shelves have parts that slot together so you can assemble them without any tools. However, some are more complex and require screwing together. Few take more than 30 minute to an hour to assemble, though.
Can metal storage shelves hold an aquarium?
You’ll need to check the filled weight of your aquarium and the maximum weight limit of your shelving unit, but an average metal storage shelf should be able to hold a mid-sized aquarium. Bear in mind, though, that even a fairly compact 20 gallon tank weighs 225 pounds when full and a large 150 gallon tank weighs 1,800 pounds.
How much space should be between shelves?
There’s no right or wrong space between shelves. How much space you need depends on what you need to store. When evenly spaced, most metal shelving units have anywhere from 15 to 30 inches between shelves. However, many models have adjustable shelves so you can customize their placement position and change the space between shelves.
Other Metal Storage Shelves We Reviewed
We examined 20 other metal storage shelves. They didn’t quite make our 5 best metal storage shelves list, but they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great storage option for your home. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Metal Rack Shelves
- Metal Storage Shelves on Casters
- Heavy Duty Metal Storage Shelves
- Other Metal Storage Shelves
Metal Rack Shelves
AmazonBasics 4-Shelf Shelving Unit
A four-shelf rack shelf that can hold 350 pounds per shelf and is available with either a black or chrome finish.
Key Features:
- Adjustable shelving
- Leveling feet
- Steel construction
Cost: $50
AmazonBasics 5-Shelf Shelving Unit
If you like the above unit, but need more storage space, this five-shelf metal storage shelf gives you an extra level to work with.
Key Features:
- Holds 1,750 pounds, evenly distributed
- Tool-free assembly
- Two color options
Cost: $60
HollyHOME 5 Shelves Adjustable Steel Wire Shelving Rack
This compact rack shelf measures 18 x 18 x 59 inches and is ideal for use in kitchens or bathrooms, or when you only have a small corner available for storage.
Key Features:
- Holds up to 300 pounds in total
- Rust-resistant finish
- Easy-to-adjust shelves
Cost: $65
Omega 4 Tier Chrome Shelving Unit
Available in a wide range of depths, widths, and heights, you can find a size to fit your space and your storage needs.
Key Features:
- Weight capacity of 800 pounds per shelf
- Height-adjustable shelves
- Leveling feet
Cost: $150 to $450, size-dependent
Rackaphile 5-Tier Classic Wire Storage Rack
This inexpensive metal rack shelf is suitable for lighter storage tasks, holding a maximum of 275 pounds, spread evenly across the whole unit.
Key Features:
- Easy tool-free assembly
- Handy hooks for hanging
- Adjustable feet for even flooring
Cost: $45
Seville Classics 5-Tier Black Epoxy Steel Wire Shelving
This epoxy-coated steel shelving unit is corrosion-resistant, but only for use in dry environments, so we wouldn’t recommend it for bathrooms or damp basements.
Key Features:
- Holds up to 300 pounds per shelf
- Measures 30 x 14 x 60 inches
- Adjustable shelves
Metal Storage Shelves on Casters
AmazonBasics 4-Shelf Shelving Unit on 3” Casters
This is a wheeled version of the unit we featured above. It comes with many of the same great features but a lower weight capacity.
Key Features:
- Holds up to 440 pounds when stationary or 350 pounds when in motion
- Tool-free assembly
- Adjustable shelves
Cost: $40
BestOffice 6 Tier Wire Shelving Unit
With its super sturdy wheels, this storage shelving unit can take 350 pounds per shelf, which is far more than most models on casters.
Key Features:
- NSF-certified
- Easy to assemble
- Suitable for commercial use
Cost: $80
The corner design of this wheeled unit maximizes the storage potential of your space.
Key Features:
- Holds 75 pounds per shelf
- Suitable for indoor or outdoor use
- Simple to assemble
Cost: $200
Origami Wheeled 4-Shelf Folding Steel Wire Shelving
The folding design means you can set this metal storage shelf up in seconds. It’s perfect for use at events, but works for home storage, too.
Key Features:
- Sturdy powder coated steel frame
- 75 pound capacity per shelf
- Rolls easily on its casters
Cost: $65
Seville Classics UltraDurable Steel Wire Shelving with Wheels
The total weight capacity of this unit on its casters is 500 pounds, but it can hold up to 800 pounds per shelf if you choose to use its leveling feet instead.
Key Features:
- NSF-certified for commercial food use
- Slim design fits in compact spaces
- Chrome-plated to resist corrosion
Cost: $100
Seville Classics 5-Tier UltraZinc Steel Wire Shelving with Wheels
If you like the above unit, but have a lower budget, this is a great alternative. The weight capacity is lower, however.
Key Features:
- Holds up to 130 pounds on its casters
- Easy to assemble
- Adjustable shelves
Heavy Duty Metal Storage Shelves
AmazonBasics Heavy Duty Shelving Double-Post Steel Wire Shelf
This is a metal shelving unit for anyone who needs to store extremely heavy items, with a total weight capacity of 5,000 pounds (when evenly distributed between shelves).
Key Features:
- Measures 60 x 24 x 78 inches
- Bolt-free assembly
- Double post design gives the option to create two shorter units
Cost: $190
Giantex Heavy Duty Shelving Rack
With a total weight capacity of 1,900 pounds, it isn’t quite as strong as some other heavy duty options, but it’s still more than enough for most uses.
Key Features:
- Tool-free assembly
- Adjustable shelves
- Five-shelf design
Cost: $55
Hardware & Outdoor Heavy Duty Garage Shelf
Holding up to 4,000 pounds over five shelves, this is an extremely heavy duty option for storing your weightiest items.
Key Features:
- Steel frame with particle board shelves
- Easy to assemble
- Adjustable shelves
Cost: $85
Sure, they’re not the most attractive storage shelves in the world. but a weight capacity of 590 pounds per shelf isn’t to be sniffed at.
Key Features:
- No tools required for assembly
- Adjustable shelves
- Rust-resistant frame
Cost: $85
Yaheetech Black Adjustable 5-Shelf Shelving Unit
The black finish makes these shelves a little different from the majority of heavy duty offerings.
Key Features:
- Holds 330 pounds per shelf
- Bolt-free assembly
- Height-adjustable shelving
Other Metal Storage Shelves
AmazonBasics 4 Cube Wire Storage Shelves
These storage cubes are great for general storage, but not for heavy duty tasks.
Key Features:
- Holds 10 pounds per cube
- Modular design
- Easy to assemble
Cost: $20
AmGood Stainless Steel Wall Shelf
If you want wall storage, rather than freestanding, this might be the option for you.
Key Features:
- Made from 18 gauge 430 stainless steel
- Certified for commercial food applications
- Easy to install
Cost: $60
SONGMICS 6-Cube Metal Wire Storage Cube
Another cube style metal storage shelf, if you’re looking for an alternative to the AmazonBasics option above.
Key Features:
- Can be configured in a variety of ways
- Comes with rubber mallet for assembly
- Each cube holds around 20 pounds
Cost: $30
