Having seen tremendous growth in the past few years, the 2023 Pro Tool Innovation Awards recognized several truly innovative products in the storage category. When you think about it, just about any tool or accessory likely ends up in some form of storage. These innovations address the garage, shop, tool, crib, and more.
From fixed storage to rolling carts, tool bags, and more, the 2023 Tool Storage Awards brought versatility and a wide array of solutions for tradesmen and homeowners alike. If you don’t find something handy or compelling in the products below, you might want to check your pulse!
Winner – Backpacks
DEWALT PRO Backpack DWST560102
What they said:
Store and transport tools on the jobsite with the new DEWALT® lineup. Featuring 1680 denier fabric, dirt-repellant tarpaulin, and IP54 water-resistant compartments, these professional tool bags are built with enhanced hybrid technology to withstand rough jobsite conditions.
- LAPTOP PROTECTION – Help prevent damage to electronic devices on tough jobsites with separate laptop compartment.
- OVERSIZED TOOL STORAGE – Keep items in order with designated pocket for bottles and a unique section for long tools.
- CONVENIENT TOOL ACCESS – Access tools quickly on the job with the fold-down main pocket. HI-VIS DESIGN – Get clear visibility of tools with yellow hi-vis internal fabric.
- HANDS-FREE MANEUVERABILITY – Keep hands free for work with the backstrap that can be hung on a telescopic handle.
- QUICK-CLOSE ZIPPER – Store and retrieve tools quickly, even while wearing gloves, with the ergonomic U-shaped zipper pull.
- DESIGNED FOR COMFORT – Stay comfortable when transporting tools with a padded, ergonomic back support system.
- ADDITIONAL STORAGE – Find essentials fast with a dedicated tape clip, metal carabiner, and daisy chain.
What we say:
DeWalt brings tool bags to the next level by embracing the combination of tools and tech that defines construction today. With a generous helping of pockets, loops, and clips, there’s all the tool storage you expect to find. A laptop compartment separates and protects your tech from the tools you’re carrying, plus an IP54 water-resistant zippered pouch offers additional protection for sensitive gear that most other backpacks don’t include. It’s all wrapped up with a jobsite tough construction that you can depend on to last.
Price: $129
For more information, click here.
Winner – Bags
Milwaukee Tool PACKOUT 15″ Structured Tool Bag 48-22-8316
What they said:
Our PACKOUT™ Modular Storage System is the industry’s most durable and versatile storage system. The PACKOUT™ 15” Structured Tool Bag features tear resistant layered ballistic material, a reinforced structure that holds its shape over time, and has a carrying capacity of up to 50 pounds. The impact-resistant molded base connects with other MILWAUKEE® PACKOUT™ system components via integrated locking cleats. Our 15” Structured Tool Bag has all metal hardware, YKK zippers, and includes 65 pockets. The padded shoulder strap quickly and conveniently stores on the handle for maximum organization. Our PACKOUT™ Modular Storage System allows you to customize and build your storage system to easily transport and organize your tools and accessories.
What we say:
Milwaukee’s Packout modular system has a tremendous number of options for you to store and organize your gear. For the tech who needs to carry everything the day might thorw and them in one bag, check out what the 15″ Structured Tool Bag offers. 65 total pockets surround the bag with space for everything from electronics screwdrivers to your compact drill and impact driver set. Center and side handles give you two options for carrying, while a padded shoulder strap helps you out for longer trips. A great bag on its own, it also connects to Milwaukee Packout boxes and has the durability you expect from Milwaukee’s storage team.
Price: $269.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Coolers
Milwaukee Tool PACKOUT 40QT XL Cooler 48-22-8462
What they said:
Milwaukee Tool continues to revolutionize jobsite storage with a new Cooler that features full modular connectivity with the PACKOUT system. The PACKOUT 40QT XL Cooler is designed for mobility through site, transit, and shop. It can hold ice for up to five days while keeping food and beverages cold. It is built for ultimate jobsite durability with an impact-resistant body and an IP65 rating to keep out jobsite debris and prevent water leakage. Perfect for on and off the jobsite, the new cooler is equipped with an integrated bottle opener, drain plug, and interior storage tray to keep contents elevated above icy water. In addition, the cooler has a built-in food-grade cutting board that doubles as a cooler divider for maximum versatility.
What we say:
When it comes to staying hydrated on the jobsite, nothing beats a quality cooler, especially in the heat of summer. What could make it better? How about one that connects to your modular storage system? That’s exactly what Milwaukee did with the Packout 40-Quart XL Cooler. Similar in size to popular premium coolers, it’s capable of keeping ice for up to 5 days. With its waterproof design, you don’t have to worry about water leaking out and onto your gear. Plus, the divider doubles as a food grade cutting board—just in case you’re the kind of person who likes to bring charcuterie for lunch. So grab the cooler that works with the system you already have and still enjoy the benefits of a premium build.
Price: $249
For more information, click here.
Winner – Modular
Milwaukee Tool PACKOUT System
What they said:
Since launching the Milwaukee storage category in 2014, our lineup has grown to include a breadth of solutions that deliver on the versatility and ‘Nothing But Heavy Duty’ promise demanded by our users. With the introduction of the PACKOUT Modular Storage System we’re taking this commitment to the next level. All current modular storage systems available today limit users to a single footprint or box size that offers very little versatility to fit their needs. PACKOUT is a game-changer for these users because it’s the first multi-footprint system that allows boxes, organizers, and totes of multiple sizes and configurations to easily stack and lock together.
What we say:
Packout is one of the most exciting modular systems on the market. It launched with a bang, boasting durability no other locking system could stand up to. As the years have rolled on, Milwaukee has expanded the system tremendously. From purpose built bags to traditionally lifestyle products that crossover into construction and even custom foam tool kits, it’s the deepest modular lineup and shows no signs of slowing down.
Price: Varies
For more information, click here.
Winner – Wall Modular
Milwaukee Tool PACKOUT Shop Storage System
What they said:
Milwaukee Tool expands their PACKOUT™ Shop Storage System with 8 additional Shop Storage solutions. Bringing the versatility of PACKOUT™ into the shop, users will be able to fully customize their storage with wall plates, hooks, tool racks, tool holders, and a cabinet that connect with all PACKOUT™ solutions. The Wall Plates feature Quick Alignment Tabs on all sides, making installing rows and columns of multiple plates easy. Available in two sizes, the Large Wall Plate features a 150lbs wall mounted capacity, and the Compact Wall Plate features a 50lbs wall mounted capacity. These hooks, tool racks, and holders provide the Most Secure Mounting when paired with PACKOUT™ Wall Plates. These solutions allow users to maximize their efficiency in the shop by featuring Quick Access Functionality. They include five different hook styles and sizes that are metal reinforced to maintain their shape when loaded. A wide variety of tool racks and holders, including M18™ and M12™ battery racks, compact shelf, organizer cup, tool rack, screwdriver rack, roll holder, tool station, long handle tool rack, and two sizes of bins, providing users with endless customization options. In addition to those solutions, the cabinet can securely be hung up on wall plates or stacked with other PACKOUT™ solutions. It has full modularity on the tool box’s top, bottom, and back and features a Quick Access Door that allows users to store and access tools efficiently.
What we say:
When Milwaukee came out with Packout Wall Mount, it made storing our Packout boxes easier. Now with Shop Storage products, it’s so much more. New wall mount sizes and a wide range of products help you organize your shop and save space. In addition to hooks, some of our favorites include long-handle tool holders, M12 and M18 battery holders, a bulk crate, a paper towel holder, and a cabinet. Take a look for yourself and see how you can transform your shop orgnanization.
Price: Varies
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – On-Site
Makinex Mobile Charge Pod
What they said:
Our Makinex Mobile Charge Pod innovation aims to address two specific challenges associated with traditional on-site charging options: unexpected work gear replacement costs and battery charging hazards. By providing a solution that tackles these issues, it offers several potential benefits and an improvement from existing products.
Cost savings: unexpected work gear replacement costs can significantly impact on a business’s budget.
Enhanced safety: Battery charging hazards, such as electrical malfunctions, overheating, or fires, pose a risk to both personnel and property. By eliminating or minimizing these hazards, the innovation helps create a safer work environment.
Mobility and convenience: On-site charging options often require workers to remain near charging stations, limiting their mobility and flexibility. This offers a more portable and convenient solution that increases productivity.
What we say:
Losing tools to theft sucks, but it’s an all too common occurrence on jobsites everywhere. One of the easiest ways to take off with someone gear, is to grab charging batteries (and sometimes the chargers) when the owner isn’t around. Makinex designed a locker system that allows you to cycle your batteries onto the charger while reducing the chances of someone taking them. It’s not a simple task, though. Chargers need airflow to ensure batteries don’t overheat, and you have to get power to multiple boxes with different loads in each one. Makinex solved those issues by creating the Mobile Charge Pod—a system that’s secure, safe, and transportable to and from jobsites.
Price: $3995
For more information, click here.
Winner – Organizers
Milwaukee Tool PACKOUT 4 Drawer Tool Box 48-22-8444
What they said:
Our PACKOUT™ 4-Drawer Tool Box has a 50lbs weight capacity and a locking security bar that allows you to padlock the drawers closed, keeping them securely shut during transport. As part of our PACKOUT™ Modular Storage, the 4-Drawer Tool Box allows you to customize your storage system for easy transportation and organization of tools and accessories. This portable tool box with drawers is constructed with impact-resistant polymers, all-metal ball-bearing slides, and metal-reinforced corners for ultimate jobsite durability. The 4-Drawer Tool Box also allows you to customize your drawer layout with Quick-Adjust Dividers (includes 4 set of dividers). Our PACKOUT™ Modular Storage System is the industry’s most versatile and durable storage system.
What we say:
A drawer system has been on a lot of people modular storage wish lists, and there are now several to choose from. Of those, Milwaukee’s Packout 4-Drawer Tool Box features the durability we’ve come to expect from Packout and includes some nice features to set it apart. It has more drawers than its competition, uses all-metal bearing slides for smooth operation, and ensures the security of the closed drawers during transportation. If that configuration doesn’t work for you, there are three other drawer options in the Packout system to choose from.
Price: $199
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Rolling Chests & Cabinets
CRAFTSMAN V-Series Tool Storage CMSTVS6311BK
What they said:
Proudly made in the USA with global materials, the CRAFTSMAN® V-Series™ Tool Storage Line is specifically designed for professionals who demand nothing but the best from their tool storage!
Suitable for the master mechanic, CRAFTSMAN® V-Series™ Tool Storage is loaded with features to make you more efficient while you work and stand the test of time in harsh environments. CRAFTSMAN® V-Series™ chest and cabinets are built with heavy-gauge steel I-Frame® construction.
The best in class 6” x 2” suspension loaded casters ride like a dream and support up to 3000 lbs. All units feature soft close, ball-bearing drawer slides that support up to 200 lbs. in drawers with double slides. An internal tubular lock secures your tools and supplies while integrated power strips in both chests and cabinets allow for convenient charging of your CRAFTSMAN® Power Tools.
All drawers feature V-Series™ branded cushioned drawer liners for the perfect finishing touch. The V-Series metal storage range includes a versatile 63” mobile workstation and 41”and 52” top chest and rolling cabinet combinations. CRAFTSMAN® V-Series™ products are available in select stores and online where CRAFTSMAN® products are sold. To learn more about these products and the entire line of CRAFTSMAN® tools and solutions, visit www.CRAFTSMAN.com.
What we say:
Craftsman is stepping up its storage game in a big way with the Pro-focused V-Series. It’s all about the build. I-Frame construction and heavier gauge steel set it apart from less expensive homeowner models. That gives it a much higher 3000-pound total capacity, and it has suspension-loaded casters to ensure it’s able to handle the load and still roll effectively. Best of all, these professional tool boxes are still well under the price you’ll pay from the tool truck guys while maintaining the quality Pros demand.
Price: $999-$1799
For more information, click here.
Finalist
- DEWALT DWST52082 DEWALT Tool Storage System
Winner – Rolling Jobsite Storage
Purdy Painter’s Storage Box
What they said:
The Purdy Painter’s Storage Box is an innovative product that revolutionizes the way professional painters organize and transport their tools to significantly improve their productivity and efficiency. This three-tiered interlocking system is the first storage system built specifically for professional painters. And it was designed by pros themselves to effectively address the unique needs of professional painters.
The Purdy Painter’s Storage Box contains three boxes, each designed thoughtfully for professional painters and their tools. The two extra-large boxes hold all the tools pros need on the job–even power tools. The XL Rolling Box has ample room to store multiple gallon cans of paint. The supply box on top keeps everything neatly organized so pros can find the tools they need fast. Two extension pole holders keep this essential painters’ tool ready to grab and go to work. There is a wet brush & roller cover bin that is uniquely designed for moving used brushes and rollers from jobsites to where they’ll be cleaned without getting paint or moisture on anything else in the box. Its generous size means there’s even room to hold 18” rollers. Dedicated brush hanger bars keep brushes orderly and bristles in top shape by storing vertically before, on the way and during jobs.
With specialized tools and products geared toward efficiency becoming more desirable among professional painters, pros require organization solutions that allow them to complete more jobs quickly. The Purdy Painter’s Storage Box has dedicated space for every tool, ensuring pros are always organized and have what they need at their fingertips.
Each lid on the Purdy Painter’s Storage Box stays open at a 90-degree angle for quick access to tools. Another standout feature of this storage system is the top lid’s clever design, featuring profiles of paint can bases in different sizes. This feature enables professionals to securely place paint cans while in use on the job, adding a layer of convenience and stability to their workspace. Such attention to detail sets this product apart and showcases the brand’s commitment to enhancing the painting experience for professionals.
Between jobsites, the storage boxes stack easily, lock securely in place and are effortless to move with two large, all-terrain 9-inch wheels and an integrated, telescopic handle. The Purdy Painter’s Storage Box is rugged and IP 65 rated for water and dust resistance. It is also compact enough for use anywhere and can roll all your tools in and out of jobsites, minimizing the number of trips to a work vehicle.
What we say:
At first glance, Purdy’s Painter’s Storage Box looks like any other rolling tool box set that nearly every brand has. A closer look reveals not just a set of boxes, but a system specially designed for the needs of painters. Each member of the set is carefully thought through to help professional painters manage the tools they bring to the jobsite each day. There are even exterior elements to help store and transport what doesn’t fit in the box. Plus, Purdy offers a jobsite tough build and IP65 ingress rating to make sure it can hold up over time.
Price: $304
For more information, click here.
Winner – Tool Boxes
DEWALT TOUGHSYSTEM 2.0 Deep Half Toolbox DWST08035
What they said:
The DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 Deep Half Toolbox brings greater versatility to the end-user, by leveraging the half-size platform for new innovative modules that gives great value to the end-user. The unique size and proportion are based on end-user needs for mid-size tool storage and customizable organization such as heavy-duty adjustable dividers, the half-size tray that allow to mount it on the edge of the toolbox to allow better usage of the inner storage and stack upon the exciting full-size trays in the rest of the Toughsystem line.
What we say:
DeWalt took the concept of a large bulk storage tool box and cut it in half without dropping the depth. That gives it an excellent profile for organizing smaller power tool sets, like a drill/impact driver combo, without having a lot of empty space for your tools to roll around in or reverting to a larger tool box that gets way too heavy to manage.
Even better, removable dividers make better use of the space when you’re storing smaller tools, and there are spots to hang tools by the belt hook on the exterior. Plus, this is a member of the ToughSystem 2.0 line of modular storage with a 1/2 width profile. Whether you like it on its own or you’re customizing your modular set, this is an incredibly handy tool box to add to your storage collection.
Price: $69.97
For more information, click here.
Winner – Tool Rigs
TRUEWERK Tool Quiver S23-2057-OS-GY
What they said:
TRUEWERK’s Tool Quiver is an innovative improvement on the classic tool belt. The Tool Quiver is replete with useful pockets and slips, which allow users to fully customize their tool selection without adding unnecessary weight to their workwear system. Multiple compartments can store a range of tools, including screwdrivers, wrenches, box knives, pliers, metal snips, stud finders, chalk lines, drivers, pens/pencils, and more. It’s also fully compatible with TRUEWERK’s T-Line products and easily slides and secures into the left-hand cargo pocket, an innovation that helps further increase comfort and functionality whether the user is planning a board, removing an obstruction from a drainpipe or servicing a tractor. The left thigh pocket of the T-Line pants is useful as-is, but the creation of this Tool Quiver amplifies utility, allowing users to customize and carry hand tools without the bulk of a tool belt.
What we say:
When you don’t need a fully-loaded tool belt to carry your gear, pant-mounted pouches are a popular way to go. The only problem is that you don’t always need those pouches, but they’re always present. Truewerk challenges the norm with the Tool Quiver—a clever removable tool pouch that works with the T-Line pants by securing on the cargo pocket. Use it when it’s handy, remove it when it’s not. It’s that easy.
Price: $29
For more information, click here.