Over Bonnet Storage vs Storage Cage – What’s Better?
If you live in an apartment, you’ve probably faced the same issue as thousands of Australians: not enough storage.
Two of the most common solutions offered in apartment buildings are storage cages and over bonnet storage. But which one is actually better for apartment living?
In this article, we break down the key differences, costs, convenience, and real-world usability to help you decide which storage option makes the most sense.
What Is a Storage Cage?
A storage cage is typically a wire mesh enclosure located in a basement or car park area. These are often allocated during apartment construction or sold separately by developers.
Pros of Storage Cages
Usually included in some apartment purchases
Can store bulky items
No installation required if already built
Cons of Storage Cages
Often far from your car space or apartment
Limited availability (many residents don’t get one)
Poor security (bolt cutters defeat most cages)
Exposure to dust, moisture, and pests
Can’t be added later in many buildings
For many apartment owners, storage cages simply aren’t accessible or practical.
What Is Over Bonnet Storage?
Over bonnet storage is a secure, lockable storage unit installed directly in front of your car, positioned safely above the bonnet.
Instead of relying on shared or distant storage areas, over bonnet storage allows you to use unused space within your own car park.
Over Bonnet Storage vs Storage Cage – Key Differences
1. Location & Convenience
Storage Cage:
Usually located in a separate area of the basement, sometimes hundreds of metres from your car or lift.
Over Bonnet Storage:
Installed directly in front of your vehicle — access your stored items without leaving your car space.
✅ Winner: Over Bonnet Storage
2. Security
Storage Cage:
Wire mesh cages are easy targets for theft. Items are visible and often secured with basic padlocks.
Over Bonnet Storage:
Fully enclosed, lockable, and out of sight. Items aren’t visible to passers-by.
✅ Winner: Over Bonnet Storage
3. Availability
Storage Cage:
Limited supply. Many apartment owners and renters don’t have access to one at all.
Over Bonnet Storage:
Installed in your own allocated car space — no waiting lists or shared access.
✅ Winner: Over Bonnet Storage
4. Cleanliness & Protection
Storage Cage:
Exposed to dust, moisture, water leaks, and pests common in basement car parks.
Over Bonnet Storage:
Designed to protect your belongings from environmental exposure and everyday car park conditions.
✅ Winner: Over Bonnet Storage
5. Cost Over Time
Storage Cage:
If purchased separately, cages can cost thousands — and you may still need external storage if it’s too small.
Over Bonnet Storage:
A one-time investment that replaces the need for ongoing self-storage rental fees.
✅ Winner: Over Bonnet Storage
When Does a Storage Cage Make Sense?
Storage cages can still work if:
One is already included with your apartment
It’s close to your car space
Security isn’t a major concern
You don’t need frequent access
However, these conditions are becoming less common in modern apartment buildings.
Why More Apartment Owners Are Choosing Over Bonnet Storage
Over bonnet storage is growing in popularity because it:
Uses space that would otherwise go unused
Keeps belongings close, secure, and accessible
Avoids shared or common-area storage issues
Works within strata-controlled environments when designed correctly
For apartment living, convenience and security matter — and over bonnet storage delivers both.
Is Over Bonnet Storage Right for Your Car Space?
Every apartment car park is different. Before installing over bonnet storage, it’s important to check:
Clearance height
Space in front of the bonnet
Car space width
StorageNest offers a fit & compatibility check to ensure the solution works for your specific car space before installation.
Final Verdict: Over Bonnet Storage vs Storage Cage
For most apartment residents, over bonnet storage is the better long-term solution.
It offers:
Better security
Easier access
Greater availability
Cleaner, safer storage
If you’re looking to add storage without cluttering your apartment or renting off-site units, over bonnet storage is a smart upgrade.
Explore StorageNest’s over bonnet storage solutions and see if your apartment car space is compatible.
Smarter storage starts with using the space you already have.
