Best Portable Shed

Portable sheds are a convenient storage solution that can protect your valuables from weather damage.

Rather than leaving your car exposed to harsh sunlight, biting winds, and forceful rain, a portable shed keeps things covered without the expense of building a garage.

It isn’t just cars that these are useful for. A portable shed can clear up clutter easily.

The portable shed is increasing in popularity, as they become stronger and more durable than ever.

Some are similar to popup tents, providing a canvas covering on a sturdy frame. Others are hard shells and use a material such as resin to create an outdoor storage box.

There are numerous uses to the portable shed, but it can be hard to tell the good from the bad.

Check out our guide to the best portable sheds, and find the right storage solution for you.

ShelterLogic Shed-In-A-Box All Season Storage Shed

Best Overall

The ShelterLogic Shed-in-a-box is a great way to store and protect all of your outdoor gear, toys, tools, and equipment.

It’s the perfect solution for storing and protecting your lawn mower, snow blower, or ATV, and it can also hold garden furniture and even firewood.

This is a short term solution, but a portable shed with an impressive durability.

The construction and materials used to create the ShelterLogic Shed-In-A-Box are exceptional, which is why this is our top pick.

The base frame is made from steel, bonded with a powder finish that reduces the risk of rust and corrosion, plus chips and peeling.

The outer fabric is a triple layer, waterproof, rip stop material, UV-treated so it can sit longer in the sun without fading.

And the ratchet-tate anchoring system ensures a tight finish that stays anchored in place.

We also like the variety available in the Shed-in-a-Box range. Choose the smaller 6′ x 6′ x 6′, which can safely store a motorbike.

Or upgrade to the 12′ x 12′ x 8′ which has room for a car or other larger machinery. There are also plenty of options in between. 

As a fabric shed, there are limits to the durability. However, we think the ShelterLogic represents the best blend of strength, portability, and easy usage.

Pros

• Slide cross rail system – Locks into place for an initial tight fit that stays in place.
• 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty – A reassurance of durability. 
• ShelterLock Stabilizers – Patented stabilizers to keep your lightweight shed in place.

Cons

• Tricky assembly – Users have found that actually getting the shed up takes some time.

Also available for purchase from ShelterLogic.com and Walmart.com.

Abba Patio Heavy Duty Carport

Best For Long Term Usage

A sturdy frame and extra thick canopy gives the Abba Patio Heavy Duty carport a durability that’s often missing from portable sheds.

Even in high winds, you can expect this exceptional shelter to stay in place, keeping your backyard items protected.

Designed to house cars, the large build and removable sides make this a versatile storage area.

This is a heavy-duty carport, and you can see that reflected in every area of the build.

The hardworking steel frame was constructed with extra weight, and the metal corners lend support to an eight leg design.

The entire base frame is stable and able to withstand even extreme weather.

The extra thick canopy is made of UV treated polyethylene, and the added water resistance protects against wind or snow.

Another area where the Abba Patio carport excels is the versatility. With removable sidewalls and rolling doors, this is a portable shed for all seasons.

In warmer weather, lift the side walls to allow the interior to breathe, while remaining protected from UV by the roof.

In winter, the carport can fully enclose your items, providing superb protection against harsher conditions. Strong and adaptable, this is a fantastic option for longer usage.

Pros

• UV Treated Polyethylene Canopy – Water and sunlight resistant to protect your belongings.
• Rolling Doors – Easily open and close for access to the inside.
• Foot pads – The larger 1.5 inch legs are supported by foot pads for extra stability.

Cons

• Weight – The Carport’s best feature is also its greatest weakness. For a portable shed, this is tricky to move around.

Also available for purchase from AbbaPatio.com.

YardStash Bike Storage Tent, Outdoor Portable Shed

The YardStash bike tent is a budget option that offers great value for money. This compact storage solution is designed to be used as a temporary home for bikes.

It’s small enough to easily transport from one location to another, ideal for renters, but big enough to store two full size bicycles.

The YardStash bike tent has been designed to provide added security for your valuable possessions.

Made from durable polyester, it will stand up to the elements thanks to waterproofing and UV protection.

The tent comes complete with a rip proof tarpaulin roof and full zippers, keeping out unwelcome visitors and adverse weather.

In just 10 minutes, you can have the YardStash up and ready to go. It isn’t just suitable for bikes, but is a fantastic storage unit for tools, coolers, and other equipment.

We recommend securing to the ground with the included eyelets and setting up in a sheltered area of the yard.

The YardStash is small, at just 74″ x 32″ x 68″. However, with enough space for two adult bikes, you may find it has all the room you need.

And thanks to the smaller size, this is a great choice for renters.

Pros

• Easy setup – Set up takes less than 10 minutes.
• Travel bag – This really is a portable option, thanks to the handy included travel bag.
• Mesh vents – Allow your equipment to breathe, and reduce the build up of damaging condensation, with mesh panels.

Cons

• Lacks durability – If you live in an area with heavy winds, the YardStash will struggle.

Also available for purchase from YardStash.com and Walmart.com.

Ikuby All Weather Proof Carport

Best Collapsible

This Ikuby carport is perfect for those who want something more substantial from a simple portable shed.

The sturdy steel frame supports a collapsible structure that neatly stores your car from theft and weather.

The Ikuby was inspired by a simple concept — the old-fashioned perambulator hoods that provided cover against even the worst weather.

Using this folding design, Ikuby created a cover that takes up minimal space, is easy to use, and provides incredible protection.

The Ikuby is built to last. Thanks to its powder coated finish, it won’t rust or fade, making it a long term investment.

Sealed seams improve the waterproofing of the 600 D Oxford fabric with a polyurethane coating protecting against rain, snow, and even hail.

As well as protecting against the elements, the lockable design can keep away thieves.

Designed to be a car cover, there is limited usage to the Ikuby.

However, as the shelter opens halfway, there is some potential workspace, and with careful organization, you can store equipment.

But the Ikuby is built for cars, and that’s where it excels.

Pros

• Waterproof fabric – With a 600 denier Oxford fabric, the Ikuby is tough enough to withstand wind, rain, and hail.
• Lockable design – Keeps out unwanted intruders.
• Quick installation – Despite a complex design, the Ikuby can be put together quickly.

Cons

• Limited use – The collapsible shape is only really suitable for cars. 

Also available for purchase from Ikuby.com and Walmart.com.

Keter Store-It-Out Prime Outdoor Storage Shed

Best With Hard Sides

While a fabric shed is fantastic at keeping the wind and rain off cars and patio furniture, you might want something a little more durable for your expensive garden equipment.

The Keter Store-it-Out is a portable shed with a resin construction that will keep your valuables safe.

Designed to fit into even small yards, the Store-it-Out features a hard exterior shell that protects your belongings from the elements.

The double door opening makes access easy, while the sloped roof allows water to run off. And made entirely out of a weather-resistant resin, the shed won’t ever fade, rust, or rot. 

With a wood-like textured finish, the Keter Store-It-Out looks appealing in any backyard.

The 31 cubic feet storage capacity might not be huge, but it is spacious enough to store up to two 32 gallon trash cans.

A push mower, a tool box, and some outdoor toys should all fit in easily. For families, the Keter can be a great extra storage space.

Pros

• Weather resistant – Resin sheds are designed to protect your possessions from the elements.
• Step On Lock – Carrying heavy tools? Lock the doors together with the step on lock.
• Hydraulic pistons – The soft close and automatic opening is easy to use. Ideal for storing outdoor toys where kids can access them. 

Cons

• Weak floor – Be careful when moving the shed about, as the floor lacks the durability of the roof. 

Also available for purchase from Keter.com and Wayfair.com.

Portable Shed Buyer’s Guide

If you don’t have a garage or shed, outdoor storage can be a nightmare.

A portable shed gives you a safer space to store your valuables, at a lower cost and without needing any planning permission. But how do you choose the right one?

Portable sheds are becoming increasingly popular.

Many who previously felt they had to leave vehicles and tools exposed to the elements are now seeing the use of a portable shed.

And with a growing market comes more choices. Take a look at our buyer’s guide to find all the features you need to look for in a portable shed. 

Size

The first thing to consider is exactly what you plan on storing in your portable shed. This will help you choose a size.

The size should be big enough to fit everything you need, but not so large that there’s extra space that risks damage.

Consider how much space you need to move around in as well. If you’re storing a car, then there has to be room either side of the doors.

And if you want to do planting under a cover, make sure there’s headspace for when you stand up.

Consider the space you have available. Don’t overestimate how much room you need to move about, and end up with a shed that won’t fit in your yard.

Materials

A good quality portable shed should be built with strong materials. You’ll need this to protect your possessions against the elements, especially strong winds and rain.

Portable sheds are either built from hard shell materials, or fabrics.

Portable sheds made of hard materials such as plastics, resin, wood, and metal have to be small. Otherwise, they just aren’t portable.

These aren’t very useful for cars and vehicles, but better for storing yard equipment and tools. 

Fabric portable sheds are usually larger than their hard shell counterparts. They can be used for anything from gardening to storing bikes, and even boats.

Fabric sheds can be lightweight, but many of them have heavy frames to add on bulk.

The material for a fabric shed has to be durable. It should be waterproof and UV resistant, as well as tough.

Design

The design of the portable shed will often indicate what items it stores best.

A portable shed with just a canopy roof is better for cars, while an enclosed shed might be more suitable for farm vehicles.

A small shed with a zip opening will store bikes, while a hard shell shed will better protect farm tools. 

Some sheds, such as the Abba Patio carport, are versatile. These have removable sides and rollable doors, to be used as storage, gazebos, and workspaces.

Consider how you intend to use the shed, and which design is best for you.

Assembly

If you’re buying a new portable shed, check out the assembly instructions. Make sure you know how to put together your shed, and whether you’re going to need professional help.

While some portable sheds can be put together in moments, the larger carports are often complex constructions.

They’re quite similar to tents in this way, and it can be slow-going to get one installed. But don’t rush through the assembly phase, or you risk a poor build weakening the shed.

Be aware that some portable sheds will require extra tools in order to build. If you don’t have them, this will add to the price.

Anchoring

Before buying your shed, think about where you intend to put it, and how you plan on keeping it there.

Most portable tents require some anchoring, otherwise, they can fall victim to heavy winds. 

The terrain will determine how you anchor your shed. On gravel or cement, you may need to use weights to hold the legs in place.

On soft ground, such as a lawn, anchor in place with stakes.

Not all portable sheds come with anchors, but they are a necessary extra.

In the long run, it’s better to spend money on anchors, over having to replace a portable shed when it’s blown away. 

Durability And Warranty

The overall durability of a portable shed is determined by the frame and the materials.

For a fabric shed, look for UV-coated and weatherproof materials, plus a steel build with a resistant coating. For a hard shell shed, resin is ideal.

Again, check for UV-resistance and weatherproofing, and keep an eye on the roof. It should be extra strong, and sloping so that water drains off.

It’s worth buying a portable shed with a warranty that can protect against errors in construction or a failure to protect against even the lightest winds.

Overall, a portable shed is often a short term solution. However, you should expect at least a year’s usage before a replacement is needed.

Look

Portable sheds, particularly carports, are big items. And they are rarely built with aesthetics in mind.

If you don’t want a canvas gazebo by your house, you may want to shop around for a more stylized look.

Brands such as Abba Patio and Keter create some appealing products.

Price

The cost of a portable shed depends largely on size, materials, and style. You’ll pay less for a smaller model, and more for a large one.

The average portable shed is likely to cost you $150 and upwards, although there are cheaper models available. It’s worth paying extra for the durability of the materials.

Other Features

A portable shed is a fairly simple item, but there are some features to look out for. For an enclosed shed, a mesh window or paneling will aid breathability.

This prevents condensation collecting, which can lead to rust.

Some sheds will include locks, or the ability to add a lock. This increases safety. However, some zippered sheds can suffer from rust, which makes tears and rips more likely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Uses Of A Portable Shed?

A portable shed is a storage solution for those who are unable or unwilling to invest in a permanent shed.

Portable sheds are often used to shelter cars for those lacking a garage, protecting an expensive vehicle against damaging weather conditions.

Others use their portable shed to store large equipment such as lawnmowers and ATVs. The portable shed adds extra protection, without a costly build.

The portable shed is also very useful for renters. As building a shed or garage is rarely allowed on a rental property, a portable model is a handy alternative.

And if you only need a short term storage solution, a portable shed can be fantastic. For example, if you rent heavy equipment.

When the item needs to be returned, the portable shed can be taken down and packed away for a later date.

How Do I Choose My Portable Shed?

When choosing a portable shed, consider what you’re going to use it for. Will it be used for storing tools, or vehicles?

Is it going to be left outside year round, or only needed during several months of the year? The usage of the shed will determine the best size and materials.

Consider other factors such as the ease of assembly, and whether the item fits in your budget.

One of the key concerns when choosing a portable shed is durability.

The shed is meant to protect your belongings from the elements, but it can’t perform if made of lower-quality materials.

Before buying your portable shed, find out if it’s waterproof and UV proof. It helps to read reviews, to see how the shed performs over time.

If I’m Installing A Portable Shed, Do I Have To Get Building Permits?

Generally, you don’t need a building permit to put up a portable shed. They’re temporary structures, which rarely require permits.

However, the size of the portable shed can make a difference. Check the height and size restrictions for your area, before making a purchase.

How Long Will A Portable Shed Last?

It’s difficult to say how long a portable shed will last for, although the quick answer is not as long as a permanent structure.

The portable shed is designed to be temporary, and how long it lasts will also depend on the weather conditions in the area.

For a good quality portable shed, expect a few years’ usage before you start to see damage. If the frame is good, you can extend the life of a fabric portable shed by replacing the canvas.

Final Thoughts

Portable sheds have become increasingly popular in recent years. Whether they’re used as garden sheds, car shelters, or outdoor storage solutions, they provide many benefits.

They’re easy to assemble, and rarely require any permission to install. We hope with our guide, you can find the right portable shed for you.