7 Tool Storage Solutions to Organize Your Jobsite, Workshop
The right tool for the job is probably what your dad taught you when you first wandered out to the garage, and the right tools need the right storage.
Let’s face it: having the right tools in good working condition and clean and organized and at the ready is as close as you can get to gospel in the construction trades—so much so that tool belts, boxes, and storage cabinets have evolved to become specialized tools in and of themselves.
With tight labor conditions still stressing out most construction crews, interest in jobsite productivity and efficiency is at all-time highs. As a result, workers are taking a meaner, leaner look at tool storage solutions in search of organizational gear that’s adaptable, customizable, utilitarian, and highly mobile.
“The understanding that tradespeople want to be more productive is at the forefront of every product we design,” says Matthew Vargo, senior product manager at Milwaukee Tool. “With contractors constantly moving from jobsite to jobsite, they’re constantly seeking versatility and the ability to kit out their gear. As a result, we’ve expanded our storage lines to include solutions like our 40-inch Steel Work Cart to our modular Packout system.”
Even tool belts are dispensing with the one-size-fits-all method to embrace a more customized approach to trades and jobsite needs that can vary greatly from 7:00am to 3:30pm. At Carhartt, customers can mix-and-match components to custom-build their own tool belt online, or select a pre-built option designed to store all the tools needed to get the job done.
Technology hasn’t left the tool storage category untouched, either, with bags and boxes continuing to offer power tool battery and cell phone chargers, LED lighting, stereo sound speakers, and even mini refrigeration components. Here’s a look at some of the top tool organization and storage solutions designed to keep you working with the right tools always at hand.
These seven caught our attention:
1. Carhartt
The Legacy Electrician’s Pouch features a main compartment with six internal loops and seven exterior pockets. It includes a metal tool hook, metal tape measure clip, and metal electrical tape holder. Users may carry the unit with haul handles or a shoulder strap.
The Jobox 74-inch Piano Box features the maker’s Site-Vault security system with bolt-cutter-proof housing. A full-length steel lock console incorporates three locking points, and the box door opens to a full 90 degrees. Box features punched holes for hanging safety harnesses, two storage bins on both side walls, and a lift-n-stow shelf.
3. Dewalt
The Dewalt ToughSystem DS450 Mobile Storage module features a telescopic handle and two wheels for easy transportation. A modular design allows users to combine and customize various stackable chests and boxes into one solution, and an IP65 integrated water seal protects items from the elements.
4. Klein Tools
The Tradesman Pro Tool Master Rolling Tool Bag is outfitted with rugged 8-inch wheels and a hard top for stacking materials. Made from 1680d ballistic weave, it’s load tested for up to 250 pounds and available with a twist-lock LED light or wireless speaker on front mount. D-rings allow for bungee cord attachment and other add-ons with orange interior for easy tool visibility.
Part of the modular Packout storage, this 15-inch power tool and accessory tote is constructed from tear-resistant 1680d ballistic weave and features all-metal hardware, an impact resistant polymer base, and a variety of carrying options, including side handles, top handles, and a shoulder strap.
6. Ridgid
The manufacturer’s Professional Tool Storage System is made from made from high-impact resin and is water- and dust- sealed for keeping equipment dry. It has metal carrying side handles that lock each unit to the other, a central locking system, all-terrain rubber coated wheels, and metal latches.
7. Craftsman
Made in the USA, the 2000 Series Rolling Tool Cabinet measures 41 inches and features 10 drawers. It utilizes an all-steel I-frame double wall construction, heavy-duty soft close drawer slides that gently pull themselves shut without slamming, and 5-inch casters. The unit has a load rating of 1,500 pounds.