Garden storage is a measurement decision before it is a style decision. A stated litre figure is not enough: a box can have the right total capacity but the wrong opening, internal height, lid path or delivery route for what you need to store.
1. List the actual contents
Put the largest items first: folded cushions, a cover, children’s outdoor toys, a hose reel or garden tools. Measure their longest, widest and tallest packed dimensions. Keep a little room for lifting items in and out; the tightest internal dimension usually decides whether the product is practical.
2. Measure the usable position
Measure the intended footprint, not just the patio. Leave space to open a lid, pull a door clear and stand in front of it. Check downpipes, wall projections, uneven paving and the route between the storage position and where the contents are used.
3. Measure the delivery route too
Check the narrowest gate, side passage, stair turn and door from the delivery point to the final position. A box may arrive flat-packed or assembled; confirm the exact current retailer terms before ordering rather than assuming either route.
4. Treat weather language as a specification to check
Maker wording about material or weather resistance does not establish that every contents type stays dry on every exposed site. If dry storage matters, check the exact product instructions, drainage, ventilation, placement and retailer return terms before buying.
5. Use this short checklist
- Write down the largest packed item and the number of items you expect to store.
- Compare those dimensions with the product’s stated internal dimensions, not only its overall footprint.
- Leave access and lid-clearance space at the final position.
- Check the delivery route and assembly format before checkout.
- Confirm the exact model, current retailer, returns and care instructions on the final product page.
Evidence boundary
UK Shortlists uses published product dimensions and current source notes as decision inputs. They do not prove live availability, delivery arrangements, weather performance, security, dry storage, load capacity or suitability for every garden.