Your tools are a major investment in your business and a key part of your ability to become the best tradie you can be. Storing them, whether in your vehicle, work, or at home, should be about more than just keeping them out of the way. It's about creating a space that’s organised, accessible, and safe.
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1. How to plan your storage solution.
- Clean up: Begin by emptying your vehicle or workplace to see all available space. This helps in removing clutter and unnecessary tools, giving a clear view of what you need to store and how much space you have to work with.
- Check your inventory: While decluttering, take an inventory of what you have. This will help identify what's needed and when.
- Shelving: Have a look around your garage or the back of your ute or vehicle. Feeling like the space could be used more effectively? Upgrading your shelving could be the key step in transforming your storage area into your dream setup. Focus on the basics first – get sturdy shelving and racks. If you don't, you're likely to see your tools cluttering the floor.
- Pick your shelving material:
- Metal: Durable, but can add significant weight.
- Wood: Easier to customise and lighter than metal, but may not be as durable.
- Plastic: Lightweight and easy to clean, but not as sturdy.
- Figure out what to put them in: Consider various storage options like containers, consoles, cab organisers, and overhead racks. Label each storage space clearly to avoid misplacement of tools.
- Design: Considering the physical strain of the job, design your storage for easy access. This includes considering the height of the shelves and how often you want to go up and down a ladder.
- Maximise space: Utilise every space; in your vehicle this could include door compartments, seat pockets, and under seats for smaller items.
- Organise: Arrange tools based on frequency of use and task. Place commonly used items like tape measures or utility knives in multiple sections for easy access. Add extra space for large or specialised tools.
- Load from bottom to top: Start loading your tools from the bottom up, keeping heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones at the top. Stack items along the side walls first for easier access.
- Add lights: LED strip lighting or custom lighting can improve visibility and safety, particularly if you find yourself hunting for tools in the back of a vehicle in the early morning.
- Security: Include lockable drawers or compartments, especially in vehicles, to protect your tools against theft.
- Insurance: Ensure that your storage solutions comply with any insurance requirements or liabilities, especially when transporting tools in a vehicle.
2. Vehicle storage solutions
In your vehicle, ensuring your tools are secure during transit and easily accessible on arrival is crucial. Proper storage solutions prevent damage from loose tools, reduce accidents, and can even help improve fuel efficiency. High-quality vehicle storage solutions are an investment that protects your assets and avoids costly repairs.
Read our list of Best Work Van Accessories!
Adding model-specific or customised shelving units for your ute, van, truck, trailer, or car is a guaranteed way to make sure you’re making the most of the space you have. Sliding cargo drawers and racks are particularly recommended for easy access throughout the day.
Brands and products for vehicle storage solutions
VAS™ (Vehicle Accessory Specialists)
- Australian designed and built storage solutions for over 20 years, perfect for customising your vehicle to suit Aussie conditions.
- Products: Roof racks, heavy-duty trade shelving kits, and trade drawers.
DECKED
- A US-based company specialising in truck storage solutions, particularly for off-road vehicles.
- Products: Wide Divider Set of 4, durable polypropylene dividers for toolboxes.
TRUNKCRATEPRO
- Provides high-quality trunk organisers for car storage.
- Products: Car Storage Organiser, featuring adjustable compartments and a durable design.
Rubbermaid
- Known for affordable, durable and secure storage solutions, they’re able to provide everything from a lunch box to the whole back shed.
- Products: ActionPacker 48 Gal Lockable Storage Bin, ideal for storing tools and emergency supplies with a secure, lockable lid.
Aussie Tool Boxes
- Fully customised to your requirements, whatever industry you are in. These guys do what they say on the tin- provide quality toolboxes for tradies vehicles.
- Products: Tool boxes, canopies, lift-off trays, underbody tool boxes and custom fabrication.
Ute Store
- With a huge range of products, pre-made and customisable options, the Ute Store is built for, and by, tradies wanting easy storage solutions for their Utes.
- Products: LED lights, 4x4 accessories, toolboxes and storage drawers, roof racks and more.
Caddy Storage
- Australia's leader in Ute Canopies, van shelving and fit-outs, they're a one-stop shop for vehicle storage solutions for tradies.
- Products: Toolboxes, canopies, drawers, towbars and roof rack systems.
3. Garage or workshop storage solutions
When storing your tools within a building, your main focus is going to be anchoring your units to the walls and floors — to ensure there’s little to no chance you end up under them.
There is often more flexibility in garages or workspaces, as most large storage units and racks are designed for these spaces, but customisable options may be key if you have niche equipment or simply want to think outside the box and create something entirely your own.
When planning your layout, keep the tools you use most within arm's reach and store the less frequently used ones in harder-to-reach places, like overhead racks. This not only ensures safety with easy access and proper weight distribution but also makes your workspace logical to how you work!
There's a whole world of storage solutions out there, from custom shelving that fits your unique tools and space to versatile wall-mounted options that maximise your vertical space. And don't forget about modular systems and rolling tool options – they're perfect for when you need to move things around. Most importantly, carve out a little nook in your garage that’s all your own – your workspace just for you!
Brands and products for garage and workshop storage solutions
DeWalt
- A favourite for providing durable, long-lasting, rugged tools and storage solutions.
- Products: ToughSystem for challenging environments, TSTAK products with an interlocking system for stackable storage, and soft storage range made from heavy-duty, rugged fabric.
Milwaukee
- PACKOUT™ Modular Storage System offers a fully compatible and customisable range of storage solutions. It’s become both a status symbol and an iconic feature of tradie culture.
- Features: Impact-resistant polymer construction, IP65 rating for heavy-duty work, and a range of mounting plates, hooks, racks, and holders for vehicle and workshop customisation
NewAge Products
- This American brand specialises in modular and comprehensive storage solutions for garages and workshops.
- Products: Pro Series 7-Piece Cabinet Set, versatile for various storage needs with a focus on durability.
StoreYourBoard
- Offers a range of wall-mounted storage systems, ideal for efficiently utilising vertical space.
- Products: Tool Max Garage Storage Rack, crafted from heavy-duty steel for robust tool organisation.
Fleximounts
- Known for their ceiling-mounted storage solutions, providing space-saving and high-capacity options.
- Products: Classic 4×8 Overhead Garage Storage Rack, ideal for maximising overhead space with a high load capacity.
Wall Control
- Provides a versatile wall-mounted storage system with customisable pegboard options.
- Products: Metal Pegboard Standard Tool Storage Kit, offering a flexible and easily accessible tool storage solution.
Craftsman
- Renowned for its durable and functional storage systems designed for garage environments.
- Products: 5-Drawer Tool Centre, a wheeled, floor-standing system with smooth, durable drawer slides for easy access.
Ultrawall
- Focuses on wall-mounted storage solutions with a range of racking systems.
- Products: 13-Piece Tool Storage Rack, a versatile and high-capacity option for diverse tool collections.
Garage King
- GarageKing offers garage storage solutions to create functional storage for the unused areas of your home.
- Products: Custom or pre-made cabinets and shelving.
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Organised tools are one thing, but an organised business is key to growing your trade business!
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