Choosing the right size RV carport comes down to one thing: your specific rig. The right structure needs to give your RV enough room to fit comfortably with clearance on every side — not just enough to squeeze in.
At American Carports, Inc., you can use our Build & Price tool now to see what’s possible with our structures, and you’re always welcome to contact us if you need help. It would be our pleasure to serve you!
Why RV Carport Sizing Matters More Than You Think
An undersized carport doesn’t just look awkward — it can cause real damage. If your roofline sits too close to the structure’s legs or your slides extend past the width of the cover, you’re one windy afternoon away from a costly repair. Getting the dimensions right upfront saves you time, money, and headaches down the road.
Our metal RV carports are custom-built to your specs, so there’s no need to settle for a one-size-fits-most solution.
What Are the Standard Dimensions for an RV Carport?
RV carports aren’t one-size-fits-all, and the right dimensions depend heavily on your vehicle class. Here’s a general guide:
By RV Class:
- Class A Motorhomes — Typically 35–45 ft long, 8–8.5 ft wide, 12–13.5 ft tall. You’ll want a carport that’s at least 14 ft tall, 14–16 ft wide, and 40–50 ft long.
- Class B (Campervans) — Usually 17–22 ft long and under 7 ft wide. A 12×20 or 12×24 carport typically works well.
- Class C Motorhomes — Range from 20–33 ft long and up to 8.5 ft wide. Plan for a 14×30 or 14×35 structure.
- Fifth Wheels — Can reach 40+ ft and require extra height due to the hitch rise. Aim for at least 15 ft of clearance.
- Travel Trailers — Vary widely, but most fit comfortably under a 12×24 to 14×30 structure.
How Much Clearance Do You Actually Need?
A good rule of thumb is to add at least 2 feet of width on each side of your RV and a minimum of 2 feet of vertical clearance above the highest point of your vehicle (including any roof-mounted AC units or satellite dishes). For slide-outs, you’ll want to account for the full extended width when calculating how wide your carport needs to be.
Don’t forget to check the height of any roof accessories before finalizing your structure height — a rooftop AC unit or solar panel array can add 6–12 inches you haven’t budgeted for.
Does the Carport Length Include the Tongue or Hitch?
Yes — and this is one of the most common sizing mistakes we see. Your travel trailer or fifth wheel’s total length includes the hitch or tongue. If you’re towing a 30 ft trailer, the full length from the hitch ball to the rear bumper may actually measure closer to 34–36 ft. Always measure the full length, not just the body of the vehicle.
What Width Options Are Available for RV Carports?
Our RV carports come in a range of widths starting at 12 feet and going up to 60 feet or more for wider footprints. Common widths for single-RV coverage include:
- 12 ft wide — Suitable for smaller campervans and compact trailers
- 14 ft wide — The most popular choice for Class C and mid-size travel trailers
- 18 ft wide — Great for Class A motorhomes with slides extended
- 20 ft+ wide — Ideal when you want to park a vehicle or store gear alongside your RV
What About Height — Can I Get a Taller Carport?
Absolutely. We build to custom heights, and for RV coverage we frequently go to 14, 16, or even 18 feet of leg height. The key is understanding that your carport’s advertised height is measured at the leg — the center clearance of a boxed-eave or vertical roof carport will be somewhat higher due to the pitch. Vertical roofs are especially recommended for RV storage because they shed water and debris more effectively.
Explore the best carport roof structure options to understand which roof style is right for your setup.
Can I Use a Carport to Store Multiple RVs or Vehicles?
Yes — a wider span structure or a clear-span building can cover multiple RVs side by side. If you also want enclosed storage alongside your RV, a custom building or combination structure gives you the best of both worlds.
Ready to Size Your RV Carport?
Don’t guess — use our Build & Price tool to plug in your dimensions and see exactly what your custom RV carport will look like and cost. If you’d rather talk it through, contact us and our team will help you find the right fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common RV carport size?
The most common size for a Class A motorhome is 18×40 or 20×45. For travel trailers and Class C motorhomes, a 14×30 or 14×35 is a popular starting point.
Should I size up when ordering an RV carport?
Yes. When in doubt, go one size larger. Extra clearance makes it easier to maneuver in and out and leaves room for any future RV upgrades.
Do I need a permit for an RV carport?
Permit requirements vary by city and county. Some jurisdictions require a permit for any permanent structure, while others have a square footage threshold. Check with your local building department before ordering.
Can an RV carport be enclosed later?
Yes. Our metal RV carports are designed with future enclosure in mind. You can add side panels, end walls, and doors at any time to convert your open carport into a fully enclosed RV garage.
How much does a metal RV carport cost?
Pricing depends on size, gauge, roof style, and add-ons. Use our Build & Price tool for an instant quote on your custom configuration.
