Visibility is both a strength and a weakness
Shelves make it easy to see when supplies are running low. Cabinets reduce visual noise, but need labels or a simple inventory so the contents remain useful.
Security may decide the choice
If children can access the garage, lockable cabinets can be the right home for chemicals, blades, and other hazards. A door alone is not a substitute for a working lock.
Most garages benefit from both
Use adjustable shelving for bulk containers and a smaller cabinet for protected items. Matching depths and aligning their front edges keeps the run easier to navigate.
Cabinets cost more than the price tag suggests
Beyond the sticker price, cabinets consume more floor depth for the same shelf count as open shelving, and doors need swing clearance that open shelving does not. Reserve the added cost for categories that genuinely benefit from being hidden or secured.
Your next step
Use these guides to compare the system types and plan the next zone without losing sight of access, clearance, and installation requirements.