The UK's bestToolboxes2022 Review

How to Choose The Best Toolbox

Dimensions

Choosing the correct size is important when considering what toolbox to buy and it should have a large enough capacity for the tools you need. However, toolboxes can get heavy when filled with tools so you may want a smaller toolbox that you can load with the tools you need for a specific job, so you don’t have to carry your whole workshop with you. It’s also worth measuring your larger tools before you buy to check they will fit.

Of course, if you have a large workshop then you can buy a larger tool chest. Investing in a good quality tool storage solution will keep your tools dry, safe, protected and organized.

Heavy duty

Heavy-duty tool boxes are good if you travel with your toolbox often and store large heavy tools in them. You don’t want to buy a lightweight toolbox that can’t support the weight of your tools!

If you do require a heavy-duty toolbox a good metal toolbox option with a corrosion and rust-resistant finish should be perfect. Alternatively, you can choose an injection moulded plastic toolbox which is very sturdy and generally a little lighter than a metal toolbox.

Weatherproof

Having a weatherproof toolbox is vital to protect expensive tools, especially power tools. A weatherproof toolbox will keep your tools dry and safe in all conditions.

When choosing a plastic toolbox check that there are no gaps and that once closed the seals are tight as this will protect your tools from dampness, rust and corrosion.

Metal toolboxes will also keep your tools dry providing there are no gaps. Most metal toolboxes have a powder coating that also protects them from wet weather and corrosion.

Lockable

Having a lockable toolbox is an excellent option especially if you work on-site. Being able to lock your toolbox will protect your tools from petty thieves while you take a coffee break. However, a toolbox is only as strong as its weakest part so check that hinges and catches are strong too.

A lockable toolbox is also an essential safety measure to protect children from accessing dangerous tools.

Carry handle

Carry handles make transportation of your toolbox easier. You want to ensure that the carry handle is strong and comfortable. Some toolboxes also come on heavy-duty castors. These toolboxes on wheels or rolling toolboxes also have telescopic handles which make moving your heavy tool kit a breeze.

Latches and hinges

You want to ensure that the latches and hinges of your toolbox are of good quality. This will ensure that the toolbox remains tightly closed. This is particularly important when travelling with your toolbox as otherwise, bumps and knocks could open the latches and you will end up with tools everywhere.

Strong latches and hinges also make your toolbox more secure. Having a lockable toolbox is ineffective if the catches or hinges are weak and easily broken.

Tool chest features

The number one priority when buying a tool chest is its durability. You want to buy one good quality tool chest, and have it last you for years.

The drawers of your tool chests are its main feature they allow you to organize things very nicely and keep everything together. Looking for a tool chest that fits everything you own and leaves you some room for expansion is important too.

It’s also helpful if the drawers slide easily and have non slip mats as this prevents your tools from getting jumbled. A lockable section is a great feature on a tool chest too.

The castors on the bottom of the tool chest allow it to be moved around a workshop environment and locked into place once the desired location is reached.  Check that the toolbox you choose has heavy-duty castors so that they can support the weight of a heavy chest filled with tools and still move smoothly.

Some tool chests can also contain extra bulk storage space at the bottom for large items which is handy if you have larger tools and power tools to store.

Warranty

Warranties are always important as they ensure that the company supplying your product is confident that it will last. If it doesn’t last you will either get a replacement or get it fixed.

Toolbox FAQs

What are toolboxes made of?

There are two main materials used in the construction of toolboxes.

Most toolboxes are made from injection moulded plastic. This material makes the toolbox strong and enables it to withstand knocks and bumps from the tools inside. Plastic tool boxes remain light and easy to carry. In addition, plastic also won’t rust and is pretty weatherproof, too.

Having a durable plastic toolbox is a good choice as it compromises between strength and weight to give you a strong but lightweight toolbox. A plastic toolbox will often be a cheaper option than its metal counterpart.

The other common toolbox material is metal. A metal toolbox will provide more strength than a plastic toolbox. However, the added strength will also add weight. If you choose a metal toolbox ensure that it is rust and corrosion resistant – many have a durable powder coating that makes them durable and also gives them a nice shiny finish.

What different types of toolboxes are there?

There are many types of toolboxes the most common ones are.

Rolling toolbox

Rolling toolboxes are good for storing a lot of equipment in a way that makes it easy to transport. They are easy to move thanks to rolling wheels and an extendable handle.

Hand carry toolbox

The classic toolbox has a simple design with a carry handle for moving your toolbox around. Normally they have one removable section for storing smaller items or things you need to access frequently. Then, under the shelf, is the main portion for the bulk of your tools. Some toolboxes also have a removable section with lids and handles that can be used to hold a few smaller items as well as fixings,

Hand carry cantilever toolbox

A cantilever toolbox has multiple trays to help you organise your tools in distinct sections so everything in your toolbox is easy to find. When you open the toolbox the trays extend so you can see everything. These are great if you find yourself using multiple tools and want to organise them so that everything is visible when you open your toolbox.

Large workshop toolbox

Large workshop toolboxes or chests contain drawers for you to organise everything neatly. They also have larger open areas for you to store bulkier items. These are designed for workshops where you don’t need to move your tools from place to place. Large toolboxes have castors so it is easy to move them around your workshop, although they are not designed to be carried from place to place.