ᐅ KALLAX as a Storage Unit for a Camper Van – How to Secure It?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to use a KALLAX shelf unit in my camper van as a storage solution. The challenge is to secure the shelf so that it holds firmly and safely during travel, without negatively affecting the vehicle’s structure or compromising weight and stability. Since the shelf consists of multiple compartments and I would ideally like to use it both as storage and as a room divider, I am looking for the best methods to fix it in place—whether attached to the wall, the floor, or with additional brackets.

Has anyone had experience securing a KALLAX shelf unit in a camper van? Which screws, brackets, or other fastening methods have proven effective? Are there any special tips regarding vibrations or movement on rough roads? I look forward to your recommendations and suggestions on how to achieve a discreet yet stable installation.

Thanks in advance!

ronigla schrieb:
Does anyone have experience fixing a KALLAX shelf in a camper van?

In general, I recommend securely fastening the KALLAX shelf at least at two points: the floor and the wall. Make sure the screws are anchored into solid vehicle frame reinforcements or structural supports—never just into thin wall paneling.

In my camper van, I used steel brackets that I screwed onto the back of the shelf and then fastened to the vehicle floor. Additionally, a sturdy rail was mounted on the wall to hang the shelf. This setup holds very firmly, even during sudden braking or on uneven roads.

It is also important to use vibration-damping pads between the shelf and the vehicle floor to prevent material damage and creaking noises. If the shelf will be heavily loaded, secure fastenings are essential.

If you have more detailed measurements and mounting points, more precise recommendations can be given.

flo-Theres schrieb:
Basically, I recommend securing the KALLAX shelf firmly at least at two points: on the floor and on the wall.

I fully agree and would like to add a few technical details, especially regarding mounting in a camper van:

1. Check mounting points carefully: Many camper vans have beams or reinforcements in the frame, for example, around skirting boards or floor anchor rails. These are usually the safest and most reliable places to fix screws.

2. Screws and anchors: For metal surfaces, use sheet metal screws or suitable self-drilling metal screws. If there is a wooden support, use Spax screws of appropriate length (at least 4-5 cm (1.5-2 inches)). Avoid screws that are too long and might protrude on the other side.

3. Angle brackets: Use sturdy angle brackets (minimum 3 mm (0.12 inches) steel) with multiple screw holes. This distributes the load evenly and minimizes twisting.

4. Vibration: Place rubber buffers or felt pads between the shelf and mounting points to reduce rattling and prevent corrosion.

5. Load distribution: Do not fix the KALLAX shelf under maximum load at just one point. It is better to use several smaller mounting points.

I would also recommend positioning the shelf so it experiences minimal movement from bumps or tilting during travel.

If you want, feel free to share measurements or photos of the installation site, so more specific advice can be given.

Dilen schrieb:
If you like, you can post measurements or photos of the installation site, so we can help more specifically.

Thanks for the detailed information! The parking space measures approximately 120 cm (47 inches) wide, 40 cm (16 inches) deep, and the vehicle wall consists of a wood or fiberboard panel about 1 cm (0.4 inches) thick mounted on metal supports. The floor is a 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) plywood board on a sturdy metal frame.

My plan is to place the KALLAX directly against the vehicle wall and then, if possible, secure it to the metal cross beams underneath. Since the wall paneling is not strong enough to hold screws, I would prefer to fasten it to the cross beams.

flo-Theres schrieb:
It’s also important to use vibration-damping pads between the shelf and the vehicle floor

I will definitely install those to prevent any rattling or shaking.

Would you recommend fastening the base using brackets or by screwing directly through the floor into the metal frame? And what about additional safeguards to prevent lateral tipping?

Thanks for your advice!

ronigla schrieb:
Would you recommend attaching the base using brackets or screwing directly through the floor into the metal frame?

I definitely recommend a combination of both, depending on the floor structure and accessibility:

1. Screwing directly through the floor into the metal frame provides the most secure fastening. The length and diameter of the screws should be chosen to ensure a strong hold without damaging any components. Spring washers or flat washers help to better distribute the forces.

2. Brackets as additional fastenings make a lot of sense, especially for lateral stabilization and preventing tipping. For this, mount sturdy brackets under the shelf that are fixed to the wall or floor.

3. A combination prevents the shelf from shifting or tipping during sudden stops or sharp turns.

4. Be sure to check whether you can screw into the metal frame from below or from the side—the method depends on accessibility.

5. If the crossbeams are hollow, you should use suitable nuts on the backside of the screws or threaded inserts welded in place.

Additionally, I recommend choosing stainless steel screws (V2A) to avoid corrosion in humid conditions.

This way, your KALLAX shelf should be safely and reliably secured in the campervan.