Tool bags and storage have seen a lot of expansion over the past several years. The 2024 Pro Tool Innovation Awards reflect that by recognizing innovative products in the storage category. Everyone needs to both transport and store tools—some daily, some periodically. This opens up a lot of opportunities for innovation in the garage, shop, or tool crib.
From fixed storage to rolling carts, tool bags, and more, we saw an influx of new products to address versatility and custom storage solutions. The 2024 Tool Storage Awards should benefit both 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 – Accessories
DeWalt DWST086501 TOUGHSYSTEM® 2.0 DXL Accessory Kit
What they said:
Keep your DEWALT drills, impact drivers, batteries, chargers, hand tools, fasteners, or other jobsite or workshop materials organized with the new DEWALT TOUGHSYSTEM 2.0 DXL Accessory Kits. Designed to be used in conjunction with the DEWALT® Metal Workshop Storage System or the DEWALT® TOUGHSYSTEM® 2.0 DXL™ Modules, each of these storage kits features a variety of accessories to help simplify your organization and maximize your productivity.
With a redesigned latching system that helps to secure the hook to the rail front-to-back and left-to-right, you can be confident that your tools will remain securely in place when stored on the integrated metal rails on TOUGHSYSTEM 2.0 DXL Modular Storage boxes or as part of the DEWALT Workshop Storage System. This makes these kits ideal for use in mobile applications and a great add-on to the new TOUGHSYSTEM 2.0 DXL Modular Storage boxes!
What we say:
DeWalt Toughsystem 2.0 DXL Accessory Kits integrate seamlessly with the DeWalt Metal Workshop Storage System and associated modules. It expands your storage system and gives you greater versatility for carrying and holding tools, batteries, and chargers externally while you work. That gives you easier access to the tools you need on-site so that you can work more quickly and efficiently—right where you are.
Price: Varies by kit
For more information, click here.
Winner – Backpacks
Purdy® Painter’s Backpack
What they said:
The first painter’s backpack designed by pros for pros, the Purdy® Painter’s Backpack provides several innovative features that address the unique needs of professional painters in the industry, setting a new standard for tool organization and transportation.
Designed with meticulous attention to detail, the backpack’s thoughtful organization includes multiple storage spaces tailored for a variety of painting tools, from roller frames and covers to brushes, prep tools, and extension poles. A key innovation is the removable no-mess wet pouch, allowing for clean transport of used, wet tools—a game-changer for maintaining order and efficiency on the job.
The backpack’s weather-resistant exterior, reinforced handles, and metal zippers ensure durability in diverse work environments and safeguard valuable tools.
Comfort and ergonomics are prioritized with shoulder straps and a padded air mesh back panel, providing even weight distribution for easier carrying between job sites. The backpack’s versatility extends to modern needs, featuring an external USB connector for on-the-go phone charging, along with practical details like a side pocket accommodating extension poles up to 4 feet long and rubberized feet to prevent tipping, ensuring stability and ease of access during use.
By combining comprehensive tool organization, durability, comfort, and modern conveniences, the Purdy® Painter’s Backpack showcases Purdy’s attention to real-world usage scenarios. It not only improves upon existing storage solutions but also introduces new capabilities that enhance painters’ overall efficiency and professionalism on every job.
What we say:
The Purdy Painter’s Backpack specifically tailors its design to the specific needs of professional painters. It features well-organized compartments that neatly store essential tools, including roller frames, brushes, and extension poles. A removable wet pouch is a practical addition, letting painters transport wet tools without mess. Purdy even took durability into account, with a weather-resistant exterior and reinforced handles. They even included modern features like an external USB connector. If you paint for a living, you owe it to yourself to check out this backpack.
Price: $110
For more information, click here.
Winner – Bags
Flex FS1201 STACK PACK™ 16in Soft Tote
What they said:
Pack and organize the tools you’ll need for a day on the job with the FLEX STACK PACK™ 16” Tote. The tote features 44 pockets and slots plus a large removable divider for a fully customizable layout, and its overmold handle pivots so you can quickly access your tools and accessories while you work. The tote is made from ultra-durable 1680D high-density ballistic polyester to stand up to everyday wear and tear.
A padded shoulder strap is included for carrying the tote to, from, and around the jobsite, and a back pad provides additional support. Quick-connect interlocking attachment points offer fast and effortless connectivity with other toolboxes in the STACK PACK™ storage system for a fully customized layout.
What we say:
The Flex Stack Pack 16″ Tote is loaded with 44 pockets and slots as well as a removable divider. We haven’t seen too many totes that offer this much customizability to suit various tools and preferences. It’s made from ultra-durable 1680D ballistic polyester so you should be able to haul it to and from the jobsite without fear of tearing or ripping. The tote’s quick-connect interlocking system integrates easily with other Stack Pack toolboxes, giving you tons of flexibility in how you transport it.
Price: $100
For more information, click here.
Winner – Modular
Flex FS1107 STACK PACK™ Cabinet Box
What they said:
Keep your trailer, garage, or workshop organized with the FLEX STACK PACK™ Cabinet. The cabinet features a large interior space ideal for large tools like rear-handled circular saws. Its auto-locking door closes securely and prevents the door from opening if the cabinet is transported to a jobsite. Quick-connect latches offer fast and effortless interlocking connectivity so it can be stacked with other toolboxes for a fully customized STACK PACK™ setup.
What we say:
The Flex Stack Pack Cabinet is designed to either stack seamlessly with other Stack Pack toolboxes or mount to a compatible Flex wall mount system. In either configuration, you have easy access to large tools like circular saws, reciprocating saws, and more. The large interior space is protected by an auto-locking door, preventing accidental openings during transport. If you’re a professional who moves back and forth between jobsites, this is a unique solution that can help you get immediate access to larger tools and products without having to unpack or unstack your entire tool storage system.
Price: $139
For more information, click here.
Winner – Wall Modular
Flex FSM1501-10 STACK PACK™ WALL MOUNT SYSTEM
What they said:
Mount your STACK PACK™ storage items to the wall in your trailer, garage, or workshop with the STACK PACK™ Wall-Mount Rail. Featuring a 16-on-center design to mount on walls with standard 16-inch spacing without the guesswork, the wall-mount rail allows you to easily transition your STACK PACK™ setup from transport mode to its place on the wall in seconds without tools. The Wall-Mount Rail is compatible with a wide range of STACK PACK™ items.
What we say:
The Stack Pack Wall-Mount Rail system easily mounts to standard 16-inch wall stud spacing, making installation straightforward in most trailers, garages, or workshops. The real convenience comes from its ability to seamlessly transition your Stack Pack storage system from transport mode to a secure wall setup. You can move from cart to wall in just seconds—and with no tools required. This rail system is an ideal solution for professionals and serious DIYers looking for a way to stay organized while maximizing space and increasing workflow efficiency.
Price: $60
For more information, click here.
Winner – Organizers
Milwaukee 48-22-8433 PACKOUT™ Tilt Bin Organizer
What they said:
Our PACKOUT™ Modular Storage System is the industry’s most durable and versatile storage system. The PACKOUT™ Tilt Bin Organizer features ten removeable quick-access bins that store a variety of small tools, parts, and materials. The impact-resistant base allows this organizer to securely stack or hang with other PACKOUT™ system components. The stainless locking security bars keep the bins firmly shut during transport. 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:
The Milwaukee Packout Tilt Bin Organizer gives you ten tilting removable bins so you can easily store and access parts, fasteners, bits, and more. It features an impact-resistant base, so you can take it off the wall and place it on the ground without fear of damaging the enclosure. Stainless locking security bars keep the bins securely closed during transport, making this a great and solid choice for anyone looking to bring small parts and accessories with them to the jobsite.
Price: $99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Rolling Chests & Cabinets
DeWalt DWST26041 26″ Wide Tool Chest
What they said:
Proudly made in the USA with global materials, the expanded DEWALT Tool Storage System takes storage and organization to the next level! Completely redesigned from the ground up, DEWALT Metal Storage is not only loaded with features but also has the new DEWALT Customizable Workshop Storage System integrated for organization unlike anything you’ve seen before. The expanded assortment launching in 2024 includes a 26″ Chest, a 26″ Cabinet, plus 41″ and 52″ Workstations.
The 26″ Chest includes a DEWALT Metal Rail pre-installed to the top of the chest and comes with a DEWALT Power Tool Holster and two DEWALT Plastic Bins for convenient organization options. The 26″ wide Cabinet comes with two metal rails that mount to the outside of the cabinet and two power tool holsters. Each of the Workstations, plus the 26″ Chest, features an integrated power strip with 6 outlets and 2 USB ports for convenient charging of your cell phone and DEWALT® Power Tools.
Additional accessories like a charger mount, bins, standard hooks, and more are available to maximize your storage space. These products are built with heavy-gauge steel and feature full-extension soft-close ball-bearing drawers. Smaller drawers have a single set of slides and support 100 lbs., while larger and deeper drawers are fortified with double slides that support 150 lbs. per drawer. Cabinets and Workstations feature 6 x 2 in casters with a 2000 lb load rating. All units feature a 10-year warranty. Build out your dream shop with DEWALT storage!
What we say:
The DeWalt 26″ Wide Tool Chest features integrated power strips with USB ports, heavy-gauge steel construction, and soft-close ball-bearing drawers. We love that DeWalt also added customizable accessories like tool holsters and bins, which really enhance the usability of these chests—particularly the top. Made from 18/20 gauge steel and supporting up to 2000 lbs of maximum load capacity, this system seems ideal for any well-organized workshop.
Price: $449
For more information, click here.
Winner – Rolling Jobsite Storage
Craftsman CMST17870 VERSASTACK™ 30 Gal. Quick-Access Tool Chest
What they said:
Get organized and get going with the durable 30 Gal. Quick-Access Tool Chest. As part of the VERSASTACK™ system, this IP54* dust and water rated storage solution features a large, heavy-duty 30 gal. internal capacity and a quick access lid that allows half of the chest lid to be easily opened to access tools without removing VERSASTACK™ modules on top. With rust-resistant hardware, telescopic pull handle for easy transportation and heavy-duty wheels, this tool chest is prepared to convey and safeguard your valuables in the garage and beyond.
What we say:
Sometimes, the most innovative product just gets the small things right. That’s certainly the case with the Craftsman Versatrack 30-gallon tool chest. In addition to its large capacity, it features rust-resistant metal latches, a separate one-handed latch that opens just one side of the container for easy access, and an IP54 rating. Compatible with VersaStack, you can also secure other toolboxes right on top and then carry everything in using the integrated heavy-duty wheels and extendable pull handle.
Price: $90
For more information, click here.
Winner – Tool Boxes
Klein Tools 54825MB MODbox™ Wire Dispenser
What they said:
The Klein Tools MODbox™ Wire Dispenser (54825MB) is an essential tool for transporting and pulling wire on the job site, offering unparalleled convenience and efficiency. Designed to accommodate up to four 500′ spools of 10AWG wire inside, it also features a through-hole for conduit that supports two additional spools on the outside. The open front design allows for easy pulls and quick inventory checks, streamlining the workflow.
Front guides facilitate smooth wire pulling, while a wire capture system prevents unraveling, ensuring the wire is ready for the next pull. For vertical ceiling pulls, the lid stays open with a metal kickstand, providing easy access to the wire.
Constructed from impact-resistant polymers, the Wire Dispenser can withstand a weight of up to 120 pounds. The lid features a steel-reinforced lock location, allowing the use of a padlock or cable lock to secure the wire. Built-in side rails provide the flexibility to add attachments, making frequently used tools and items easily accessible. It also connects with other MODbox™ components, for a custom mobile workstation tailored to your specific needs.
What we say:
Klein Tools wins the Internet with its MODbox Wire Dispenser box which uses 1/2-inch conduit to let you house up to four 500 ft. spools of 10AWG wire internally. It even includes the capacity for two more spools on the exterior (one on either side). An open front design and wire capture system simplify pulls and help prevent unraveling, while the sturdy construction supports up to 120 pounds. Since it’s part of the MODbox system, you can integrate it into your fully-customized mobile workstation.
Price: $130
For more information, click here.
Winner – Tool Rigs
Firm Grip FG-50889-GHS / Build-A-Rig Hybrid Carpenter Tool Rig
What they said:
Ideal for trim carpenters, remodelers, and PROs needing a more compact, lightweight pouch, the Firm Grip Carpenter Rig delivers a hybrid design with military-grade nylon for enhanced performance, lighter weight, and no break-in period. Key wear points are reinforced with the trusted durability of premium leather. The Padded Belt provides a durable, quick-release buckle with set-and-forget sizing and increased load-bearing strength. The 4.5″ leather back pad with suspender loops delivers necessary back support and all-day comfort on the jobsite.
The Hybrid Carpenter Rig is part of the Firm Grip Build-A-Rig system of belts, pouches, and accessories – empowering you to build YOUR RIG, YOUR WAY.
What we say:
The Firm Grip Carpenter Rig is part of the company’s Build-A-Rig system and lets you customize a tool rig to include the features you need. It’s a thoughtful design that adapts well to the needs of trim carpenters, remodelers, and framers. The Carpenter rig, in general, presents a more compact yet functional tool belt solution. Firm Grip integrated both military-grade nylon and premium leather to produce a comfortable, durable tool rig. The padded belt features a quick-release buckle and plenty of load-bearing capacity, while a leather back pad with suspender loops gives you optional back support for long workdays.
Price: $140
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Truck Beds
Tmat Products Tmat™ Truck Bed Organizer Slide Out Mat Universal Fit for Short Beds
What they said:
Tmat stands out as the first grid-based organizer designed specifically for truck beds and cargo areas, offering a unique solution that addresses common drawbacks of existing products. Traditional organizers often require time-consuming installation, sometimes involving drilling or permanent modifications, which can be a hassle for users. Additionally, these systems may limit the size and shape of the tools or cargo you can haul, and many are not compatible with gooseneck or 5th wheel setups. Moreover, they tend to be expensive, adding another barrier to accessibility.
In contrast, Tmat is designed to install in minutes without the need for tools or modifications, making it incredibly user-friendly. Its adjustable system allows you to customize the layout around your unique and changing cargo load, providing flexibility that other solutions lack. Tmat is also compatible with goosenecks and 5th wheels, and it can be removed in seconds if needed. The organizer features a smooth surface for easy sliding of cargo into place, while adjustable cargo blockers can be plugged in around tools and other items to keep them secure. With its modular design, including 12×12” panels and trim pieces, Tmat can be installed in a variety of vehicles, from truck beds to vans, SUVs, ATVs, and trailers, making it a versatile and cost-effective choice for anyone needing reliable cargo management.
What we say:
Tmat is a truly original truck bed and cargo organization system that installs in minutes and without tools. It offers an easy and flexible way to secure gear in a truck bed. Unlike other systems, it doesn’t require permanent modifications, and it adapts to various cargo sizes and shapes. You can even use it with 5th wheels. The grid-based design stays smooth, so you can slide toolboxes, gear, and other cargo around while using customizable blockers to secure them for transport. The Tmat system works with trucks, SUVs, vans, and even trailers.
Price: $300
For more information, click here.
Winner – Work Benches
Craftsman CMST27202BK 6 ft, 2-Drawer Adjustable Height Workbench
What they said:
The CRAFTSMAN® 6 ft., 2-Drawer Adjustable Height Workbench features a solid butcher block top and all steel construction, providing a sturdy work surface for all your projects. The workbench also offers both internal and external storage options to maximize your space. The two soft close drawers provide convenient storage for tools and accessories. A wire shelf provides additional storage below the drawers and the sides have pegboard piercings for additional organization. One of the standout features of this workbench is its adjustable height.
You can tailor the workbench to accommodate your specific needs, ensuring optimal comfort and efficiency while working. You can also easily charge your power tool batteries and other electronic devices using the integrated 6-outlet power strip with 2 USB ports. For added convenience, the workbench comes with casters and leveling feet, allowing you to customize your workbench set up.
With its solid construction, adjustable height, ample storage options, and integrated charging capabilities, this workbench is a great addition to any workshop or garage.
What we say:
Craftsman has a nice variety of tool chests and benches, but its 6-foot adjustable-height workbench caught our eye. It features a solid butcher block top and sturdy steel construction. Two soft-close drawers and a wire shelf give you flexible and convenient tool storage, plus pegboard sides provide additional organization options. We love the adjustable height, allowing users to tailor the bench to their exact needs and application. The integrated power strip with USB ports and the inclusion of casters and leveling feet further enhance its functionality, making it an excellent choice for any workshop or garage.
Price: $549
For more information, click here.