A Trade Guide: The Best Tool Box for the Job

The best tool box for your trade will not only keep your tools organised but also enhance efficiency and safety while easing the transportation of your tools. Many tool boxes are undoubtedly suitable for all trades (including DIYers). However, there are some that are designed more with specific tradespeople in mind.

According to a recent analysis by Transparency Market Research, the tool box market is on track to grow to an impressive $3bn by the end of 2034; up from $1.7bn in 2023.

The organisation attribute this to a mix of factors, including an increased awareness of the advantages of using a tool box, as well as a growth in the number of people embarking on personal DIY and home improvement projects. Millennials, in particular, are contributing significantly to market growth.

This guide will look at what you need to consider before investing in a brand new tool box. We’ll then get stuck into 10 of the best tool boxes for the job according to trade.

What Should Your Consider Before Buying a Tool Box?

It’s important to get a tool box which is right for you and your intended purpose. Here are some things to consider before investing in a tool box:

Portability

Portable tool boxes held the largest share of the market in 2023 so it’s clear this is a top priority for many. Tool boxes vary greatly in weight, depending on its material and what types of tools and equipment it’s designed to carry.

There are also plenty of wheelable tool box options to consider, such as tool trolleys and workstations. The DeWalt ToughSytem 2.0 Mobile Storage Tool Box in the above image is a good example of a robust tool box on wheels.

Size

Your trade might determine your ideal tool box size. You might choose a compact tool box for small space workshops. Construction workers, on the other hand, will need a larger tool box to hold a greater variety of tools. Ensure you choose a big enough tool box so you don’t need to overload it, potentially causing damage to your tools or the box.

Features

Tool boxes can come equipped with a number of features you might find useful, depending on your trade. For example, you can go for a tool box with foam inserts for precision tools, one with removable trays for better organisation, or a tool box with side handles for easy carrying.

The Trowelsafe Grey Line Case in the image above has a foam inner tray and is a perfect option for safely storing and carrying your plastering trowels.

Type

There are lots of tool box types to suit different trades and purpose. A heavy duty box tool chest, for example, would suit those in the construction industry. Conversely, a tote bag with lots of pockets would suit an electrician. You also have organisers which contain lots of compartments for small tools and parts, in addition to stackable tool boxes.

Security

Consider a tool box with lockable drawers and compartments for security. Tool boxes made from reinforced materials can also deter potential thieves. The Milwaukee Packout from the Milwaukee tool box range is a perfect example of a strong, impact-resistant option that can protect its contents well.

The Best 10 Tool Box for the Job

1. For Electricians: Stanley FatMax Multi Dual Access Tool Bag 17"
2. For Electricians: Stanley FatMax Open Top Bucket Tool Bag
3. For Plumbers: Stanley FatMax Rucksack On Wheels 21"
4. For Plumbers: DeWALT DWST1-75654 TOUGHSYSTEM Heavy Duty Tote
5. For Builders: Stanley Waterproof Tool Box With V-Groove Lid 28"
6. For Builders: Stanley Waterproof Toolbox 23"
7. For DIYers: Stanley Heavy Duty Galvanised Metal Toolbox Storage Chest 26"
8. For DIYers: Stanley 19" One Touch Toolbox 50cm with Storage Drawer Chest
9. For Mechanics: Hilka Professional 7 Drawer Extra High Roller Tool Cabinet
10. For Mechanics: Hilka Professional 9 Drawer Tool Chest

Best Tool Box for Electricians

Because electricians are always on the move travelling between different jobs, they need a tool box that’s easy to carry. This means that not only should it not be too heavy, but it should also not be a bulky, awkward shape to transport. It’s good to have different carrying methods too.

Here are two of our recommended tool boxes for electricians:

Tool Box #1: Stanley FatMax Multi Dual Access Tool Bag 17"

The Stanley FatMax Multi Dual Access Tool Bag is a popular choice of tool box for electricians. It’s large enough to carry all the tools you need for your jobs but also lightweight enough, at 2.21kg, to be able to carry it to and from different locations with ease.

This FatMax Stanley tool bag has two large compartments to store small power tools, hand tools, and parts. Plus, there are plenty of pockets, pouches, and tool loops to enable you to create an organised tool storage system that maximises efficiency.

Why it Made Our List

• The wide opening provides easy access to the tools you need.
• Portable design, with a padded shoulder strap and soft grip carry handle.
• The base is both waterproof and rigid to minimise damage from moisture and dirt.
• Can carry up to 20kg thanks to its strong 600 denier fabric and durable design.

Tool Box #2: Stanley FatMax Open Top Bucket Tool Bag 

Our second top pick for tool boxes for electricians is another Stanley tool box (or bag); the Stanley FatMax Open Top Bucket Tool Bag. This small but mighty tote-style bag can carry an impressive 20kg load despite its 10” size. Its modest size makes it ideal for busy electricians on the move.

This FatMax’s open top design provides quick and easy access to the tools you need, without having to unzip or rummage through a closed bag. Use the pockets and loops to keep your tools organised. And the removable divider has a belt clip where you can keep your most-used tools.

Why it Made Our List

• Covered compartment specifically to safely store drill bits.
• Integrated tape measure holder to keep it on-hand when you need it.
• Solid, waterproof base to prevent the contents getting wet and dirty on the floor.
• Soft grip carry handle and adjustable shoulder strap for easier transportation.

Best Tool Box for Plumbers

Much like electricians, plumbers travel from site to site, carrying tools and equipment with them in the process. Portability, therefore, is crucial. They might sometimes need a little more space though to carry a slightly wider range of tools.

With that in mind, take a look below at our two top tool boxes for plumbers:

Tool Box #1: Stanley FatMax Rucksack On Wheels 21"

The Stanley FatMax Rucksack on wheels’ versatility makes it a good choice of tool box for plumbers. It features a telescopic pull handle and sturdy wheels that enable you to wheel it between your jobs. You can also wear it comfortably as a rucksack due to its padded shoulder straps.

This Stanely tool bag for plumbers has a padded compartment where you can safely store and transport electronic equipment like a laptop or tablet. It also has a removable tool organiser and an integral tool loop.

Why it Made Our List

• Safely store and transport electronics and personal items you need to take to your jobs.
• Wheelable design makes it easier to transport the maximum 20kg capacity.
• Made from a durable 600 denier fabric, with a rigid waterproof base.
• Removable tool organiser for small tools and a tool loop for keeping long items.

Tool Box #2: DeWALT DWST1-75654 TOUGHSYSTEM Heavy Duty Tote

The second tool box for plumbers we recommend is the DeWalt TOUGHSYSTEM Heavy Duty Tote Tool Box. Ideal for bulk storage, this robust DeWalt tool box is a sturdy option and has a maximum capacity of 20kg.

The DeWalt TOUGHSYSTEM tool box is made from heavy duty foamed polypropylene. Its large metal handle makes it easy to carry and the open design makes it convenient for seeing and accessing all your tools at the same time. Furthermore, the box has internal slots ready for you to insert dividers to maximise your space.

Why it Made Our List

• Part of a stackable range of tool boxes and modules that connect for an ultimate storage solution.
• Large interior storage area for bulky items, as well as internal divider slots for versatility.
• Side handles for convenient carrying and stacking.
• Large, heavy duty metal bar that folds down for when you need to stack or access its contents.

Best Tool Box for Builders

Builders benefit from tool box features that other trades might not need. Builders ideally need waterproof, lockable storage solutions that can withstand tough environments like construction sites. It’s also not uncommon for builders to use their tool box as a convenient seat.

Here are our two top tool boxes for builders:

Tool Box #1 - Stanley Waterproof Tool Box With V-Groove Lid 28"

The Stanley Waterproof Tool Box With V-Groove Lid 28” is large and robust, making it a perfect choice for builders. It’s part of the reputable Stanley FatMax range. This is a durable range of tools, tool boxes, and accessories that are specifically created for heavy duty usage.

This Stanley tool box is made from structural foam, making it extra tough and dependable. Its 28” size allows lots of room for large tools and parts. Plus, the removable tote tray can carry any smaller accessories you might need on site.

Why it Made Our List

• Has a V-Groove on the lid that provides a space on-hand to carry out your sawing work.
• An IP53 water rating due to its all-round water seal that protects the tool box from the elements and environmental factors.
• A secure, lockable tool box with large, rust-proof latches.
• Carry heavy loads comfortably with the strong, ergonomic soft grip handle.

Tool Box #2: Stanley Waterproof Toolbox 23"

Another Stanley tool box has made it to our pick of best tool boxes for builders. This is the Stanely Waterproof Tool Box 23”; the same as the above but smaller. This option is ideal for builders needing something a little smaller and easier to carry, while still providing ample space for their tools.

Again, this Stanley tool box is made from structural foam, making it both lightweight and incredibly durable. The removable tote tray that’s included has a convenient handle so removing it to get to your bigger tools and replacing it again is hassle-free.

Why it Made Our List

• Saw pipes and lumber on the handy V-Groove on top of the lid.
• Reliably IP53 waterproof due to its all-round water seal that stops water getting in.
• Has large, rust-free metal latches with padlocks so you get ultimate tool box security onsite.
• The tough yet soft grip handle makes carrying this tool box a more comfortable experience.

Best Tool Box for DIYers

DIYers need a trusty tool box that’s going to stand the test time. It should be easy to store, reasonably priced, and be an organised place to keep all your household tools. Versatility is also key so you can rely on it for a variety of DIY projects. 

Here are what we consider to be two of the best tool boxes for DIYers:

Tool Box #1: Stanley Heavy Duty Galvanised Metal Toolbox Storage Chest 26"

The Stanley Heavy Duty Galvanised Metal Tool Box has got plenty going for it when it comes to sourcing the best tool box for DIYers. Galvanised metal is coated in zinc, making it resistant to corrosion. This weather-resistant feature enables DIYers to do outside projects. And, to safely and confidently keep their tool box in a shed, garage, or outhouse.

This Stanley Heavy Duty Tool Box is exceptionally spacious with 26 litres of volume. This is more than enough storage space for serious DIYers as well as occasional ones. There is also a removable tray inside to keep your smaller hand tools and other small parts. 

Why it Made Our List

• Holes for locking the tool box for extra security.
• The long metal hinge and ergonomic, bi-material handle make this box strong enough to transport heavy loads.
• The V-Groove in the lid allows you to saw pipes and lumber for your DIY projects.
• Rust-resistant latches for extra protection from the elements.

Tool Box #2: Stanley 19" One Touch Toolbox 50cm with Storage Drawer Chest

Next up we have the Stanley 19” One Touch Toolbox with Storage Drawer. There are multiple aspects that make this one of the best tool boxes for DIYers. This box tool chest has got plenty of useful features that make it excellent value for money.

DIYers will benefit from features like the one-touch latch system that provides quick and easy access to the contents when you’ve got your hands full. Furthermore, the included tray is removable, so you’ll have space to store bulky tools. This is the ideal tool box for small DIY projects.

Why it Made Our List

• One touch latch to open the box with ease.
• A deep roll-out drawer for storing small tools and parts for your DIY projects.
• A V-groove in the lid designed for cutting pipes and timber.
• Rugged and heavy duty, with a soft grip handle

Best Tool Boxes for Mechanics

With the exception of the mobile kind, mechanics normally work, and keep their tools, in garages and workshops. They therefore don’t require the same level of transportability from their tool box that many other trades do.

Here are our top two tool boxes for mechanics operating from a fixed premises:

Tool Box #1: Hilka Professional 7 Drawer Extra High Roller Tool Cabinet

The Hilka Professional 7 Drawer Extra High Roller Tool Cabinet is an impressive tool box on wheels. It’s equipped with seven spacious draws that open smoothly on ball bearing sliders. The drawers also have a positive stop making them stay in place when they’re open.

This cabinet is large enough to store all your equipment. And the wheels mean you can conveniently move it around your workshop, eliminating the need to walk back and forth to a stationary cabinet or carry large amounts of tools to your work space.

Why it Made Our List

• Pairs lots of storage space with portability with seven drawers and tough 5” lockable canisters.
• Comes complete with a protective top mat and drawer liners to help prevent scratching and other damage.
• A reinforced cabinet base for extra durability.
• Drawers have a keyed locking mechanism to keep your tools safe.

Tool Box #2: Hilka Professional 9 Drawer Tool Chest

The Hilka Professional 9 Drawer Tool Chest could be considered a smaller, non-wheelable version of our first recommendation. It’s a sturdy, robust tool chest that features 9 drawers; 3 large ones and 6 smaller ones. There is also a large top compartment for extra storage space.

Just like our previous mention, the drawers run on ball bearings and feature a positive stop. The drawer handles are made from a sleek aluminium. The chest also has a chrome side handle so you can move it around your workshop when needed.

Why it Made Our List

• Strong, professional chest that’s built to last.
• 9 drawers plus one compartment mean plenty of space to create an organised tool storage system.
• A keyed locking mechanism to ensure your tools are safe from unauthorised users.
• Strong carry handles for when you need to move your chest.

Conclusion

Tools Boxes are a must-have for a variety of trades, as well as DIY projects. Many are versatile enough to be suitable for multiple trades. But you might find a specific type geared towards your profession serves you better. This guide will point you in the right direction when it comes to picking the right tool box for you.

Whether you opt for a lightweight portable tool box, a heavy-duty box tool chest, or a convenient electrician’s tote bag, TW Wholesale can help. As a 4^th generation family-run business, at TW Wholesale we know the industry inside out, including what tool boxes best suit your trade.

Take a look at our range of high-quality, dependable tool box options today. Or, if you’re in the Swadlincote area, pop in and visit us at our store. Our knowledgeable team are always on hand to advise you.