This shelving unit is about 3" shorter in width than the two side by side sheet-metal-like shelves I previously had. Even so, these shelves have much more space. The shelves are capable of holding far more per shelf (1,800lbs.) than anybody would ever need, which is a huge plus because you do not have to worry much about what you can and cannot put on it. The price is a little high but I suppose it is worth it if you want to have a shelf for 30+ years. One draw back is that the shelf surface is like a grate which makes it a pain to put some small tools on if not in a bin. It also made it a pain to store my shop vac on because it's wheels were getting caught in the grate. Overall, this is a great product and I would recommend it!