Toolboxes are a tradesperson’s best friend. They come in all shapes and sizes and can make or break the bank. They’re utilitarian workhorses meant to take some punishment, they can be light and portable, or heavy-duty and require a team to move.
Whatever your toolbox needs as a tradesperson, here are the top 7 different toolbox options:
Aluminium – Lightweight & Durable
One of the favourites among toolbox manufacturers and users alike is aluminium material. These toolboxes are generally for portable users like electricians and on-the-go mechanics. These are mainly smaller toolboxes, big enough to fit in your work car or truck.
Steel – Rugged Options for Rugged Work
If you tend to work in harsher environments, then you might consider a steel toolbox as an alternative to aluminium. Most steel toolboxes are often coated with an anti-corrosive powder that makes them resistant to rust. Stainless steel options also exist in the marketplace, for those who need that extra layer of protection that steel and aluminium do not provide. These are made from a steel alloy that does not require anti-rust coating, as it is inherently anti-rust and will therefore last longer than your traditional steel toolbox.
4. Plastic – Fantastic?
Plastic toolboxes have been making a comeback since you had one as a child. These are among the cheapest toolboxes on the market because they are made from plastic. They aren’t particularly durable nor solid (they won’t bust with a hard stare, but don’t throw them around and expect them to take the punishment). Plastic toolbox options are great for those just starting out, or if you don’t need much protection for your gear. Avoid them at all costs if you’re going to be putting them under any kind of stress, however.
5. Wooden Toolboxes
Wooden tool boxes send you right back to basics and aren’t meant for any kind of strenuous use. They’re meant to sit in your garage and hold basic tools. If you work alone in your garage, which is mostly dry and clean, then a wooden toolbox is a perfect option for you. You don’t need it to do very much, and it is simply a glorified placeholder for things like screwdrivers and drills – it’s perfect for small items like that, but don’t expect it to hold anything too heavy and don’t expect it to last any more than a few months if exposed to any harsh environment.
6. Hand-Carry Options
While most toolboxes can be called “hand-carry” toolboxes, these portable toolboxes are made from a more durable type of plastic to keep the weight down. If you’re an on-the-go tradesperson of any sort, this might be a cheaper, lighter (but more durable) option than going with, say, aluminium or traditional plastic.
7. Rolling Tanks of Toolboxes
The “tank” of the toolbox world is a large, must-weigh-a-metric-tonne, toolbox that often sits in garages for years. These behemoths are meant for maximum storage capacity and organisation. They are durable and certainly not lightweight. They often are on a set of wheels, so they can be moved around easily. These are a great option for those seeking something that can take a beating in a mechanic shop or other harsh environment.
No matter what your toolbox needs are, it’s important that you get the one that’s right for you. Choose your toolbox carefully and it will serve you well for years to come. Find what suits you best at RS components today!
