The best car shelter isn't the same for everyone: it's the one that matches your number of vehicles, your budget, and how you'll use it. Here's how to choose between the three main shelter families — single, double, and utility — and what sets a quality shelter apart from a lower-end model.
How many vehicles do you need to protect?
This is the first thing to consider, even before price. A single shelter protects one vehicle and sells for between $428 and $629 depending on the model. A double shelter protects two vehicles side by side and costs between $1,155 and $1,325 — often cheaper and more wind-stable than two single shelters bought separately. For non-automotive use (ATV, boat, bike, seasonal equipment), a utility shelter starts at $235.
For the right size for your vehicle (width, length, clearance height), see our size selection guide — this article focuses on choosing the right type and quality.
What sets a quality shelter apart from a lower-end model
Not all shelters are equal, even at the same size. Three things to check before buying:
- The frame: galvanized steel resists corrosion and handles snow load better than a standard painted steel tube.
- The canvas: canvas designed for Quebec winters holds up better against freezing, cracking, and heavy wet-snow loads.
- A real warranty: our shelters are covered by manufacturer Abris Harnois's warranty — 1 year on the canvas against manufacturing defects, 10 years on the steel frame against material defects. See the details on our Warranty page.
Why buy from a manufacturer's partner instead of a generic reseller
AbrisDirect is an official partner of Abris Harnois, a Quebec manufacturer. In practice, that means two things for you: shelters are sold at the manufacturer's suggested price, with no middleman inflating the margin, and after-sales service (parts, warranty) goes directly through the team that knows the product — not through a reseller that just ships the box.
Temporary shelter or permanent garage?
If the idea of a permanent garage has crossed your mind, a fabric car shelter remains the fastest and most affordable option to get through winter under cover: one-day installation with a detailed plan provided (or optional professional installation), versus weeks of construction and a significantly higher budget for a garage.
Our article Temporary shelter or garage: what to choose before winter compares the two options in more detail.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy my shelter online, start to finish?
Yes. Unlike several sites that redirect you to a quote request, AbrisDirect displays the exact price of every model and lets you complete the purchase directly online.
Do you deliver across Quebec?
Yes, across all of Quebec — Greater Montreal, Estrie, Montérégie, Laurentides, Lanaudière, and Outaouais among others. Timelines vary by model, season, and region; see the Delivery page.
Do I have to install the shelter myself?
A detailed installation plan is included with every shelter. Professional installation is also available as an option — see the Installation page.
Still torn between two models? Write to us from the contact page — we'll help you choose based on your situation.