Small vs Large Over-Bonnet Cabinet: Which Size Do You Need?

You’ve decided over-bonnet storage is the answer to your apartment storage problem. Great call. Now comes the next question: Small or large?

Storage Vault offers two sizes of over-bonnet storage cabinet. They share the same build quality, the same locking system, and the same fire-safe construction. The difference comes down to height and storage volume.

Here’s how to pick the right one for your space.

The Two Sizes at a Glance

| Feature | Small Cabinet | Large Locker |

|—|—|—|

| Width | 235cm | 235cm |

| Depth | 100cm | 100cm |

| Height at top | 201-221cm | 230-260cm |

| Storage volume | 2.3 cubic metres | 3.2 cubic metres |

| Max load capacity | 500kg | 500kg |

| Weight | 100kg | 100kg |

| Price | $1,749 | $1,899 |

Both units are the same width and depth. The only physical difference is the height and that extra height translates to nearly 1 cubic metre of additional storage in the large unit.

When to Choose the Small Cabinet

The small cabinet is the right choice when:

• Your ceiling is lower. The small unit adjusts from 201cm to 221cm at its highest point. If your car park ceiling is below 230cm, or if there are pipes, ducts, or sprinkler lines hanging down, the small unit is designed to fit underneath these obstructions.

• You have a compact car. While both units fit most vehicles (including SUVs), the small unit sits lower, giving you more clearance between the top of your car and the bottom of the cabinet. If you drive a sedan or hatch, the small is more than enough.

• Your storage needs are moderate. At 2.3 cubic metres, the small cabinet holds a surprising amount – a couple of bikes, a stack of storage tubs, tools, and seasonal items. If you’re not storing longboards or bulky camping gear, it’s plenty.

Budget is a factor. At $1,749 compared to $1,899 for the large, the small saves you $150. Both are excellent value, but the small is the more affordable option.

When to Choose the Large Locker

The large locker is the right choice when:

• Your ceiling height allows it. The large unit adjusts from 230cm to 260cm. If your car park ceiling is 260cm or higher, you can maximise your storage by going Large. Even at its lowest setting (230cm), it still offers significantly more room than the Small.

• You have bulky gear. Surfboards (especially longboards), large camping equipment, golf bags, and multiple bikes all benefit from the extra height the large unit provides. The 3.2 cubic metres of space gives you real room to work with.

• You want maximum storage for the money. The price difference between small and large is just $150 – but you get nearly 40% more storage volume. Dollar for dollar, the Large unit offers better value if your ceiling height allows it.

• You’re a family. If you’re storing gear for two or more people – bikes for the kids, sports equipment, tools, camping gear – the large unit gives you the headroom to fit it all without playing Tetris every time you open it.

• You drive a larger vehicle. Even large SUVs like a Toyota Prado fit under the large unit. If you drive a 4WD or SUV and still want maximum storage above, the large is built for exactly this situation.

How to Measure Your Space

Before ordering, you need two measurements:

1. Ceiling Height

Measure from the floor of your car space to the ceiling directly above where the cabinet will sit (typically above the bonnet area of your parked car). Account for any obstructions hanging below the ceiling – pipes, ducts, sprinkler heads, cable trays.

• Small unit needs: Minimum 201cm clear height
• Large unit needs: Minimum 230cm clear height

2. Floor Space

Both units are 235cm wide and 100cm deep. Make sure you have at least this much space at the front of your car park bay, and that the unit won’t extend beyond your allocated space boundaries.

3. Vehicle Clearance

Park your car in its normal position and measure the height from the floor to the top of the car bonnet. The bottom of the storage cabinet needs to clear this height comfortably. Most standard vehicles, including SUVs, fit without issue.

Height Adjustment Makes It Flexible

Both units have independently adjustable legs at 100mm increments. Each leg also has its own levelling foot for uneven surfaces, drains, and sloped car park floors.

This means you can fine-tune the height to get the best balance between vehicle clearance underneath and storage space above. You’re not locked into a single height – you can adjust as needed.

What If You’re Not Sure?

If you’re between sizes, here’s a simple rule of thumb:

• Ceiling below 230cm or obstructions present – go Small
• Ceiling 230cm or above with no obstructions – go Large

When in doubt, call Luke on (07) 5491 5999. He’ll walk you through the measurements and help you pick the right size for your specific car park. It’s a quick conversation and he does it every day.

Both Sizes Share These Features

Whichever size you choose, you get:

• All-steel, powder-coated, fire-safe construction
• Lenlok 3-way locking system
• Stabilus gas struts for easy one-handed opening
• 500kg load capacity
• Free-standing design (no drilling)
• 10-year warranty on steel components
• Body corporate preferred

Order Your Cabinet

Small Cabinet

$1,749 – ideal for lower ceilings and moderate storage

Large Locker

$1,899 – maximum storage for an extra $150

Free pickup from Caloundra, QLD. Delivery and installation in South-East Queensland for $350.

Visit storagevault.com.au or call Luke.