When many of us think of tool boxes, we think of the old metal Craftsman tool boxes our dads had in their garages. Today, the best tool boxes look and feel very different, as the category as a whole has evolved to meet the needs of professional job sites.
I’ll split this article into two parts (you can click on each link to jump to the part that interests you). First, we’ll look at the state of the best reliable modular toolbox systems. Then, we’ll look at some more traditional toolbox and bag designs that our team recommends.
When it comes to durable, modular tool storage, there are plenty of options. What started as a simple set of interlocking tool boxes has evolved into specialized storage that offers the functionality and durability that professionals need on the toughest jobsites. While any of the systems listed below will likely meet your needs, I’ve picked five that stand out and are worth your consideration.
To help you make your decision, we’ve rated each system in several categories and listed starter kit prices. The ratings are on a 10-point scale and compared to currently available systems.
Milwaukee Packout wasn’t the first to release a modular storage system, but its introduction revolutionized tool storage. It raises expectations for the durability of modular systems and expands storage options far beyond any other offering.
Today, the system is constantly expanding and becoming more complex, making it the most versatile system that can be customized to suit your specific needs.
At first glance, the Flex Stack Pack may look similar to other modular systems, but it’s actually quite different. In addition to the increased strength we’ve come to expect from professional-grade construction, the product team reimagined how you can use the space you already have.
Some Stack Pack tool cases can be equipped with smaller accessory organizers that can be attached to the lid or sides, making the most of space that would normally go unused. On the outside, you can store a variety of accessories to keep tools, levels, extensions, and more within easy reach.
Makita is relatively new to the modular storage space, but its design team studied contractors’ pain points and developed the MAKTRAK system to suit the pickup-dominated construction environment.
It folds flat instead of up, making it easy to fit under a cargo cover without disassembling the stack. The larger base also provides ample space for larger tools and allows for more cases of varying sizes and styles. Combined with thoughtful features like a two-way access door, oversized latches, and a handle design that allows the use of the tailgate for easy loading and unloading, the MAKTRAK redefines modular tool boxes.
Ryobi’s Link Modular System is an interesting hybrid toolbox and slide system that professionals can use in light-duty situations, making any DIYer’s garage more organized and functional.
These tool boxes have many of the same features as professional models, although the construction is not as sturdy and durable as Milwaukee’s Packout. In a shop or garage, the rails allow you to store various hooks, hangers, boxes, etc. on the wall, freeing up floor space for other items.
DeWalt’s ToughSystem 2.0 is similar to Milwaukee’s Packout, but its evolutionary trajectory has begun to embrace new areas. Lately, the modular workstations have caught my attention. With a wheeled cart at the base, a drawer in the middle, and a workspace at the top, it fills the gap between modular storage and a toolbox. It’s actually a 30-inch tool case on wheels, but it’s compatible with other ToughSystem 2.0 cases and external accessories, making it even more customizable.
Klein competes with the MODBox system. The basic design doesn’t deviate much from the norm, maintaining a robust construction and similar dimensions to others. The difference is that these tool sets are geared towards the needs of the electrical industry, taking into account linemen, electricians, and everyone in between. Using a combination of internal design and external accessories, you can modify the stack to suit the task you’re working on.
Systainers stack neatly and lock into place for easy storage in the shop and on the go. They’re not as sturdy as most of the rugged containers on our list, but they’re perfect for work vans, which are more popular than pickup trucks in Europe. Most Festool tools are sturdy, and the Systainer is specially designed to perfectly accommodate tools and their accessories, making this toolbox a favorite among woodworkers.
The ToughBuilt StackTech modular system is another system that adds versatility with external accessories. This heavy-duty system features a self-leveling interface that automatically locks as the stack is built.
Veto Pro Pac has made a name for itself as a maker of tough, purpose-built tool bags, and in my opinion, these are some of the best tool bags you can buy. There are a wide variety of options to suit almost any job, but my favorite is the Tech MCT Blackout.
This is a taller version of the Tech MC bag with more capacity. The V-Swap system is easy to use for almost anyone. In addition to built-in pockets inside and around the perimeter of the bag, you can swap out different panels to tailor it to the types of tools you carry. You can also pre-install multiple V-Swap panels to quickly adjust your current workload as you tackle different tasks throughout the day.
At the risk of sounding corny, I would recommend the Veto Pro Pac Tool Backpack for the same reasons I recommend their tool bags. In addition to the rugged, trade-oriented construction, the Tech Pac Blackout is also part of the V-Swap system. By designing different panels to fit the backpack, you can give it a different look than a smaller bag.
Among V-Swap compatible backpacks, this model has the largest capacity and weight, making it a good choice for those who want to have everything at hand at all times.
Metal storage is one of those categories where you can find the quality that professionals need without having to buy a major brand. We have been using Husky tool chests and work stations for years and have never had any complaints. In my opinion, the Husky 52-Inch Tool Chest and Cabinet offers the best value for the money. It has a solid build and a well-designed feature set, yet it is priced $10,000 less than the Snap-On kit of the same size.
There are certain jobs where you absolutely need the most rugged construction and maximum load capacity, or where it makes sense to invest in a high-end system. For the other 99% of us, why tie yourself down to thousands of dollars of debt if you don’t have to?
There is no easy, one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to finding the right toolbox for your needs. However, there are some general key points you need to be aware of. In addition to my own experience, I consulted with other members of our team and other local experts to find out what to look for when buying a toolbox.
Nobody likes a cheap box that breaks easily. So I wouldn’t recommend any of the “Amazon Exclusive” boxes, no matter how many people give them high user ratings. If it can’t stand up to the elements and how you use (or abuse) it, then you’re not doing yourself any favors.
Check the materials, construction and load capacity to ensure you purchase a product that meets your needs.
It may seem obvious, but you need to make sure the tool box or bag you buy is big enough to hold the tools you need. However, capacity isn’t just space. It’s also weight. Even if you avoid overpacking in terms of volume, excess weight can cause bags to rip, drawer slides to bend, handles to break, and more.
If you’re just starting out, think about the future, too. As a new mechanic, you may only need a 30-inch tool cabinet now. As your skills and responsibilities grow, you may outgrow this and need a 40-inch or even 50-inch tool cabinet, so plan accordingly.
Finally, don’t forget about where you store your toolbox. A 72-inch cabinet on wheels may have all the capacity you need, but if you only have room for a 52-inch cabinet, the extra capacity won’t help.
It’s hard for me to say which toolbox is best because it doesn’t organize tools very well. Big boxes and big compartments might work for your dad, but not for me. I prefer things that stay organized over time so I don’t have to hunt around the house for tools.
With options like the Modular System Organizer, organization becomes built-in (the name says it all). There are better ways to make the most of large storage boxes and bins. Options with dividers are helpful, and you can also consider foam inserts to help you personalize your organization. You can even find mechanic’s tool kits that come in organizers that fit easily into drawers.
If you need something that’s flexible enough to work with, I’d go with a modular toolbox system over a one-off design. That’s why systems like the Milwaukee Packout, Makita MAKTRAK, and Flex Stack Pack are so popular. From the ability to stack on carts and on top of each other to being wall-mounted, these systems offer flexibility that most competitors can’t match.
Sure, a modular system might not be what you’re looking for. The number and size of drawers, pockets, or compartments can tell you a lot about what to expect, but look for additional features that stand out. Extra features like power banks on rolling cases, replaceable liners, external storage, and more can greatly improve the effectiveness of tool boxes and bags.
Value is important. With so many options on the market, you can choose models that offer the best combination of durability, capacity, organization, and functionality. Don’t be afraid to consider private labels, especially when it comes to metal storage. Some of these cases are comparable in quality to name-brand models, but cost hundreds of dollars less.
Have you ever looked at a “review” site and wondered if they were actually testing the product or just “recommending” the best-selling product on Amazon? We won’t do that. We don’t recommend anything we haven’t used ourselves, and we don’t care who the major retailers are. We only give you educated recommendations and our honest opinion on each product.
Post time: Mar-11-2025