RV Classes: Determining The Correct Metal Building Sizes
Class A RVs (Big Motorhomes – 30 to 45 ft)
- Length: Measure bumper to bumper including tow hitch or rear accessories.
- Height: Include rooftop units. Many Class A RVs are 12–13.5 feet tall.
- Width: Usually 8.5 feet, but add clearance for side mirrors and slide-outs.
Recommended carport height: 14–16 ft
Suggested size: 14×40 to 16×50 ft depending on RV length
Class B RVs (Camper Vans – 17 to 22 ft)
- Length: Measure bumper to bumper
- Height: Include roof fans, solar panels, or A/C
- Width: Usually 7–7.5 feet, compact footprint
Recommended carport height: 11–12 ft
Suggested size: 12×25 to 12×30 ft
Class C Motorhome (Cab-Over RVs – 22 to 33 ft)
- Length: Include front overhang and back ladder
- Height: Typically 11–12.5 ft
- Width: 8–8.5 feet, but watch for slide-outs
Recommended carport height: 13–14 ft
Suggested size: 14×30 to 14×40 ft
Fifth Wheels (Trailer w/ Raised Front Section – 30 to 45+ ft)
Recommended dimensions for 5th wheel RV covers:
- Length: Front hitch to rear bumper, include rear racks
- Height: Often 13 to 13.5 feet
- Width: 8–8.5 ft, with slide-outs to consider
Recommended carport height: 14–16 ft
Suggested size: 14–30 ft wide × 40–55 ft long
Travel Trailers (Tow-Behind Campers – 20 to 36 ft)
- Length: Hitch to rear ladder/spare tire
- Height: Up to 10–12 ft
- Width: 8–8.5 ft, account for awnings or slides
Recommended carport height: 12–14 ft
Suggested size: 12×30 to 14×40 ft
Toy Haulers (Travel Trailer or 5th Wheel w/ Rear Garage – 25 to 45 ft)
- Length: Bumper to hitch or rear loading ramp
- Height: Up to 13.5 ft, especially if carrying UTVs
- Width: Allow for extended sides, ramp clearance
Recommended carport height: 14–16 ft
Suggested size: 14×35 to 16×50 ft
Truck Campers (Mounted in Truck Bed – 8 to 12 ft)
- Length: Camper only or truck + camper if stored together
- Height: From ground to roof vent/A/C
- Width: Typically 7–8 feet
Recommended carport height: 12–13 ft
Suggested size: 12×20 to 12×25 ft
Pop-up Campers
For a pop-up camper, a metal building should generally be at least 12 feet wide, with 14–16 feet offering more storage space and easier access. Length should be the camper’s packed size plus 4–8 feet for maneuvering, around 20 feet for compact models under 20 feet, and about 25 feet for small pop-ups or trailers. A minimum height of 10 feet is recommended, but extra clearance may be needed for roof-mounted accessories, keeping in mind the U.S. roadway maximum vehicle height of 13 feet 6 inches.