Choosing a Truck Tool Box

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July 2008

One day while working on your car in the garage, you need a wrench and a Phillips screwdriver.

You start digging through the tools lying on the counter, but they’re not there. You turn to the tools scattered on the floor. Not there, either. You wish you could keep your tools organized and know where everything is, but you know it’s hopeless. You’ve tried before. You’ll just have to get two of everything so when you can’t find one, maybe you’ll be able to find the other. You add more items to your list of things to buy.

Does this sound familiar? If so, maybe you need a new toolbox. Tool boxes come in a great variety of sizes and price ranges. Before going shopping, however, you’ll want to consider your needs.

Frequency of Use

How often do you use your tools? If you only use them once in a while, a small plastic tool box may be all you need to keep them clean and in one place. If you love working on your car, however, and do it every chance you get, you might need a large steel tool box.

Number of Tools

How many tools do you have? Or, how many tools do you use frequently? Which tools do you want to keep readily available for use on short notice? A basic set consisting of a hammer, screwdrivers, wrench, pliers, and ruler doesn’t take up much space. If, however, you also frequently use files, meters, sockets and wrenches, a timing light, gauges, air tools, brushes, multiple screwdrivers, and so forth, you’ll definitely want to look at buying a larger tool box to organize them all. Another idea is to buy two tool boxes: one for the tools you use frequently and one for the tools you rarely use but want to keep quickly accessible. On the other hand, you might want to go all out and get the biggest tool box you can find, one on wheels with multiple drawers swinging out on roller bearings, removable trays, compartments, and all the rest of the works. This way you’ll be able to spend more time using your tools and less time hunting for them.

The Key-Locking Tool Box

How can you keep your tools safe? What level of security do you need? Do you have small children at home or in the neighborhood who might get into your tools? Are you concerned about theft? For safety and security, you might need a tool box with a lock. When looking at tool boxes, consider whether you need to able to lock up the box itself. You don’t want potentially dangerous tools accessible to children. You also don’t want to lose an expensive tool or one that is hard to replace. Older or inexpensive tool boxes may require a padlock. Most small tool boxes come with come with a lock and key. Expensive tool boxes have self-locking drawers for maximum security. If you lock your tool box up in a shed, or always lock your garage door, you may not need to lock up your tool box.

Tool Box Storage

Where will you store your tool box? In the basement, a corner of your garage, or an outdoor shed? Will you need to carry it with you or transport it in your car or the bed of your truck? Do you need a lightweight, plastic tool box or a heavy-duty metal tool box? Answering these questions will help you determine the kind of material your tool box should be made of. A tool box of steel construction is durable and provides maximum security, but if it is going to be exposed to the weather and extremes of temperature, a tool box made of polypropylene might be a better choice. It would be durable but wouldn’t rust.

After answering these questions, it’s time to go shopping! Start looking at different tool boxes to find the one that will best meet your needs. Take into account any accessories you would like to include in your tool box. Look at color, style, and tiered designs. Do you prefer polished steel, a baked enamel finish, or a rugged plastic? Do you need your tool box on coasters so you can move it around? You want the best tool box available that meets your needs for the least amount of money. Know your budget and shop around for the best prices and the highest quality. Make a wise choice and you’ll be able to enjoy your investment for many years to come.

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