If you’re a mechanic, plumber, handyman, or any type of professional in a labor-intensive industry, then you likely transport tools as part of your day-to-day work. If this is the case, then you might be wondering about the best ways to carry around your tools with you. After all, tools are the necessary equipment for many different businesses, and keeping them safe is integral to avoiding unnecessary replacement and repair costs. Therefore, if your job or daily life means carting tools from place to place, then check out these tips for ensuring your precious cargo is always kept safe.
If you’re a mechanic, plumber, handyman, or any type of professional in a labor-intensive industry, then you likely transport tools as part of your day-to-day work. If this is the case, then you might be wondering about the best ways to carry around your tools with you. After all, tools are the necessary equipment for many different businesses, and keeping them safe is integral to avoiding unnecessary replacement and repair costs. Therefore, if your job or daily life means carting tools from place to place, then check out these tips for ensuring your precious cargo is always kept safe.
1. Use the Right Container
Whether you’re moving power tools, grouting tools, or gardening tools, you want to ensure your different pieces of equipment are stored properly when you’re on the move. A big tip we’d encourage is abandoning the default stuff. In other words, abandon the boxes that came with your favorite drill or another piece of equipment. While they might look flashy, these types of containers are rarely the most secure or convenient options out there.
The downsides of going with the usual plastic boxes that store tools are numerous. They’re more prone to break. They also rarely have extra room for tool accessories. This can be a real bummer when you can’t keep all your drill bits with your brand-new drill. Disorganization is a nightmare when you’re taking on a tough job. You don’t want to get to a site and be scrambling to get the tools you need. Default boxes can also prove difficult to utilize multiple times. Oftentimes, their hinges weren’t meant to be opened regularly, and you might find some resistance with plastic clasps on heavy cases once they experience some wear-and-tear.
2. Utilize Straps When Securing Your Tools
While any good tool case will ensure your general tools are locked down, the same can’t be said for the loose cases sliding around your truck bed. It’s a good idea to stack your tool cases by weight. Also, make sure you’re securely strapping down everything. Bungee cords, artificial leather straps, and any type of material that’s weather-resistant are must-get accessories. Investing in some heavy-duty rubber bands to secure any small accessories can also prove useful.
3. Upgrade Your Vehicle to Meet Your Needs
Depending on the type of tools you’re transporting, your vehicle’s storage space might be less-than-optimal. A truck bed is a good blank slate for carrying all kinds of cargo, but that doesn’t mean a flat wide space is always optimal for carrying your goods. For instance, if your job requires you to carry out several long-handled tools or a myriad of cables or extension cords, then you might want to consider manufacturing your kinds of storage methods. For long-handled tools, a plywood rack can be a great way to keep things separated. There are tons of DIY projects you can take on to start transporting your tools more efficiently.
4. Invest in a Quality Toolbox
We know that telling you to get a good toolbox might sound a bit obvious. However, you’d be surprised how many people there are who are happy to just use a cardboard box or default case for their tools. Here are some things we’d recommend your toolbox should have:
- Plenty of specialized compartments for drill bits, screwdrivers, electrical tape, etc.
- Secure locking units and clasps to keep tools snugly fitted in place
- Ample cushioning to protect your tools during bumpy rides
- A sturdy exterior to survive punctures or improper handling
- An airtight and waterproof seal to keep moisture out
5. Leave Space to Maneuver
We mentioned optimizing your vehicle earlier, but this point is more for your convenience. Whether you’re transporting smaller handheld tools or larger concrete tools for major jobs, you’ll want an organized space so that you can quickly and easily locate your items when on the job site. Hi-side boxes are a great way for you to make the most of your truck’s bed. They allow you to grab the tool you need without clambering into your bed and rummaging through your options. They also let you safely stack multiple tools on top of one another. This allows you to both expand your truck bed’s space and keep things organized all at the same time.
6. Take Distance Into Account
If you’re going for a short drive with your tools, then it’s probably fine to travel with your tools in a ready-to-use state. However, if you’re driving long distances, then we would encourage you to take no risks with your equipment. That means taking out batteries, unplugging and coiling wires and power cords safely, and wrapping your tools if you don’t have a cushioned case on hand. On long drives, it might not matter if you have the most secure tool storage system available. However, when driving up steel hills or around sharp corners, things can shift around. Be prepared for every eventuality by separating electrical components, removing sensitive or delicate parts, and double-checking every strap and lock.
7. Lock Up
If you’re ever going to be away from your tools for a long time while you’re on the move, then lock up your goods. Lock your vehicle — that goes without saying. However, we’d also encourage you to have individual locks on each toolbox or container. Someone might snag a tool from an unlocked toolbox, but carrying off a heavy locked box might be a different story.
Utilize These Tips to Keep Your Tools Safe
We hope some of these tips prove helpful to you. It doesn’t matter if you’re moving house or just hustling a side job. Tools are expensive, and the best ones will last you a long time if you take care of them. Treat them right, and you’ll get a great return on your investment.