While the airliner manufacturer will normally supply a standard product, airlines may choose to have bins of differing size, shape, or color installed. Over time, these bins evolved out of what were originally overhead shelves used for little more than coat and briefcase storage. As concerns about falling debris during turbulence or in accidents increased, enclosed bins became the norm.

Bins have increased in size in order to accommodate the more numerous and larger carry-on baggage many passengers bring onto the aircraft.

Many new bin designs include a handrail, useful when moving through the cabin when the airliner is in motion.