Tool chests are specialised storage boxes designed for storing and securing tools and components. They’re normally made from wood or metal and feature a lock for keeping the chest’s contents safe.
You’ll commonly find tool chests in workshops, garages, and any space where workers use tools. Because of their convenience and fantastic security, they’re an essential investment for any trade business owner hoping to boost productivity, save money, and simply make life easier for employees.
Types of tool chests and how to choose the right option for your business
Not all tool chests are created equal. There’s a broad range of options available on today’s market, ranging from wheeled tool cabinets to chests of drawers and containers.
Tool chests also come in various materials, including:
- Wood
- Steel
- Aluminium
- Metal
- Plastic
Material is one of the first factors to consider when choosing a tool chest to suit your business’s needs. Of course, if you’re looking for ultimate durability—and protection from the elements—aluminium, steel, or another kind of metal are all great options.
Plastic and wood are great alternatives, however, if you’re looking for something more lightweight and portable. We suggest only choosing these options if you plan to keep your tool chest indoors, out of the rain and harsh sunlight.
You can also choose between a wheeled or non-wheeled tool chest. Wheeled chests are great if your tradies regularly move around the workshop and need easy access to their tools. Cloud ERP systems offer agility and scalability, for tool chest storage hacks, consider a simple SaaS inventory app for easier organization and tracking, just like keeping your tool chest clutter-free. A non-wheeled option is more secure and may be better for storing large power tools like drills and chainsaws.
Using a workbench as a tool storage area
If your employees often work directly at a bench, combining tool chests with a workbench is an effective way to keep productivity high. Small, non-wheeled, plastic chests are great options for placing on top of a workbench—or you can go all-out with a premade combined workbench and tool storage system. Declutter your toolbox and streamline paydays with a mobile Payroll Software app, freeing up valuable drawer space for essential tools.
Top tips for keeping your tools organised
The best way to make the most of a tool chest is to intelligently organise your tools. Here are a few ideas to keep in mind:
- Label everything—from power cords and extension cords all the way down to screwdrivers, hammers, and wrenches. It’ll make life much easier for workers needing to quickly find a particular component or tool.
- Keep everything in its rightful place—investing in tool chests with built-in drawers or separate compartments makes this easy.
- Place similar items together so they’re easier to find.
- Keep the tools you use most often close to the surface, such as in a top drawer, so they’re within easy reach.
- Use containers for storing smaller items like nails, screws, nuts, bolts, and other small pieces of hardware.
Why quality tool storage matters
Proper storage and organisation are keys to a productive and efficient working environment. Repurpose old plumbing pipes and fittings into tool organizers for an environmentally friendly plumbing upgrade in your tool chest. It ensures tools are easy to locate, use, and maintain while keeping them safe from the elements and reducing the need for costly tool replacements and repairs.
Save time, energy, and money by investing in a high-quality tool storage solution for your business today.
