When shopping for garage cabinets, it’s easy to focus on the finished product—the installed cabinets you see in images. But what you might not realize is that garage cabinets come in two forms: pre-built and ready-to-assemble (RTA). Understanding this difference is important because it affects how they are delivered and installed. Knowing whether your cabinets will arrive fully assembled or in flat-pack boxes will help you prepare for setup, transportation, and installation.

Receiving Your Cabinets

Both pre-built and RTA cabinets are shipped via LTL (Less Than Truckload) curbside delivery. This means the delivery truck will have multiple shipments on board, not just your cabinets. The shipment will require a signature upon delivery, so someone must be available to receive and inspect the cabinets.

Once delivered, they will be left at your curb, and you will be responsible for bringing them inside. Since pre-built cabinets arrive fully assembled, they take up more space during shipping, which increases the cost of the purchase and makes them bulkier to bring inside. RTA cabinets, on the other hand, ship in compact flat-pack boxes, making them easier to handle and transport.

While many products are listed with "free shipping," freight carriers don’t actually ship anything for free—the cost is simply built into the price. This makes shopping easier by showing the total price upfront instead of requiring separate shipping calculations.

Pre-Built Garage Cabinets

Pre-built cabinets arrive fully assembled, making them a convenient, high-quality storage solution. They are great for those who want a hassle-free setup without any assembly required.

They come in both custom sizes and standard configurations, offering flexibility in garage design. Their factory assembly ensures strong construction and professional quality, allowing for immediate installation.

Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) Garage Cabinets

RTA cabinets ship in flat-pack boxes and require assembly before installation. They are a cost-effective solution for those who want a quicker shipping option and don’t mind some DIY work. Their compact packaging makes them easier to transport and maneuver into place.

Unlike pre-built cabinets, RTA cabinets are only available in standard sizes, as they are stocked and ready to ship. This allows for faster delivery, making them ideal for those who need a quick storage solution. Once assembled, they provide the same functionality and durability as pre-built options.

Assembly Time

Assembly time varies from person to person, but don't get frustrated with the first cabinet—it will be the hardest to assemble. Once you complete the first one, the rest will follow the same basic process, making assembly much easier as you go. Most RTA cabinets require basic tools such as a screwdriver, drill, and level for proper installation.

Preparing for Your Garage Cabinet Installation

Now that you know the difference, you can prepare accordingly:

• If your cabinets are pre-built, make sure you have help to move and install them since they arrive fully assembled.
• If you’re ordering RTA cabinets, set aside time for assembly and ensure you have the necessary tools.
• Expect curbside delivery and plan for how you’ll bring the cabinets inside.
• Inspect your shipment before signing to ensure there are no issues with damage.

Both options deliver high-quality storage solutions that will help keep your garage organized. Explore a wide range of garage cabinets at CarGuyGarage.com and find the perfect fit for your needs!