Dimensions Guide
Defines width, length, and leg height based on trucks, trailers, and RVs. Includes clearance calculations for accessories.
Width Selection Matrix
Sizing based on standard vehicle footprints
| Width | Best Use Case | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
12' Wide | Single Car, Truck, or SUV | 1 Vehicle |
18' Wide | Two Compact Cars or One Large RV | 1-2 Vehicles |
20' Wide | Two Mid-Size Sedans | 2 Vehicles |
22' Wide | Two Full-Size Cars | 2 Vehicles |
24' Wide | Two Full-Size Trucks, SUVs, or Vans | 2 Vehicles |
26' Wide | Three Compact/Mid-Size Cars | 3 Vehicles |
28' Wide | Three Mid-Size Cars | 3 Vehicles |
30' Wide | Three Full-Size Cars, Trucks, or SUVs | 3 Vehicles |
Pro Tip: Door Swing Clearance
While these dimensions list vehicle capacity, we always recommend measuring your vehicle with the doors open. A 12' wide unit is a tight fit for a full-size truck with extended mirrors.
Metal Building Sizing & Dimensions Guide
Choosing the right size structure is the most critical step in the planning process. At Norcal Carports, we help you calculate the necessary width, height, and length to ensure a perfect fit for your vehicles and equipment in Northern California.
Measurement Best Practices
To avoid installation delays or space constraints, keep these three factors in mind:
- Door Swing: Always account for the space needed to fully open your vehicle doors.
- Top-Down Clearance: Measure to the absolute highest point (AC units, antennas).
- Future Use: If you plan on upgrading your vehicle, size your building for the future, not just today.
Utility & Side-Entry Notes
- Utility Carports: These units feature a built-in storage room. If you choose a 25' long unit with 5' storage, your actual covered parking area is 20'. Plan your length accordingly.
- Wide-Span Clearance: Buildings wider than 30' (32' to 60') are engineered for high-capacity storage. For example, a 60' Wide-Span structure can comfortably accommodate a mix of RVs, Boats, and Utility Trailers in a single layout.
- Side-Entry Height: If you are installing roll-up doors on the side (eave) of a building rather than the end (gable), your leg height must be significantly taller than the door height to allow for the door canister and header.
Technical Note: All standard structures are measured by their outer roofline. Check local codes for setback requirements from property lines.
Expert Engineering Insight
"We don't build generic carports. We build for your specific GPS coordinates. Every pound of snow load and every mile of wind gust is calculated before the first piece of steel is cut."
Other Buying a Carport in Northern California Resources
Need Assistance?
Our Northern California team is ready to answer specific technical questions about your site prep or permitting.
Call (916) 371-8087