Shelving Cost UK: What You Need to Know Before Buying

If you’re looking to add shelves to your living room, kitchen or bedroom, the first question is always “how much will it cost?” In the UK, shelving prices can swing wildly depending on material, size and where you shop. Below we break down the biggest price drivers and give you easy ways to keep the bill low.

Materials and Price Ranges

Wood, metal and plastic are the three most common choices.

Wooden shelves give a warm look but tend to be pricier. A simple pine board can be as cheap as £10‑£15 per metre, while oak or walnut run £30‑£60 per metre. If you want a ready‑made unit, expect to pay £50‑£150 for a three‑shelf bookcase.

Metal shelving is popular for industrial styles and heavy loads. Basic steel racks start around £20 for a two‑shelf unit, but heavy‑duty stainless steel can climb to £100‑£200 for larger setups.

Plastic or MDF shelves are the budget-friendly option. You’ll find flat packs for £5‑£12 per shelf, but they may not hold very heavy items.

Remember to factor in finishes. A lacquered or painted surface can add £5‑£15 per shelf, but it protects the material and looks better.

Where to Buy and How to Save

Big retailers like Ikea, B&Q and Argos usually have the lowest base prices because they sell flat‑pack units. Look for sales during January and July – those are the months when many stores clear out stock.

Second‑hand markets are a goldmine. Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree and local charity shops often have solid wooden shelves for half the new price. A quick refurb with sandpaper and paint can turn a cheap find into a stylish piece.

If you enjoy DIY, buying raw boards and brackets can shave another £10‑£30 off a ready‑made unit. All you need is a drill, level and a few screws. Online tutorials make it easy even if you’ve never built a shelf before.

Don’t forget delivery fees. Many retailers offer free click‑and‑collect, which saves £5‑£15. If you’re ordering online, check the total cost before you click ‘pay.’

Installation and Hidden Costs

Most flat‑pack shelves claim “easy assembly,” but you’ll still need tools. A basic toolbox (screwdriver, drill, spirit level) costs about £20 if you don’t already have one. If you hire a handyman, rates in the UK average £30‑£50 per hour, and a typical installation takes 1‑2 hours.

Wall anchors are another small but important cost. For plasterboard, use £5‑£8 per pack of metal anchors to prevent shelves from pulling out.

Finally, think about the load you’ll put on the shelves. Heavy books or kitchen appliances may need extra brackets, adding another £5‑£10 per bracket.

By planning ahead and comparing material, source and DIY options, you can keep your shelving cost in the UK well within your budget. Whether you choose a sleek metal rack for the garage or a reclaimed wooden unit for the living room, the key is to match price with purpose and avoid hidden fees.