
We’ve seen tremendous innovation in everything from fixed to modular storage throughout 2026. This year’s Pro Tool Innovation Awards for Tool Bags & Storage showcase many of these new designs and technologies. From improved designs to new ways to organize and helpful solutions for the various trades, storage & innovation continues to impress and surprise us as an area where manufacturers are not content with the status quo.
Winner – Accessories
CRAFTSMAN CMST82823VT VERSATRACK Power Tool Holster

What they said:
The CRAFTSMAN® VERSATRACK™ Power Tool Holster keeps handheld cordless power tools organized, protected, and ready when needed. This accessory transforms unused wall space into a customizable storage solution that helps users spend less time searching for equipment and more time completing projects. Designed to integrate seamlessly with the CRAFTSMAN® VERSATRACK™ rails, CRAFTSMAN® metal storage, or standard pegboard, it maximizes available workspace.
The Power Tool Holster securely stores CRAFTSMAN® V20 power tools in a convenient grab-and-go position. The Power Tool Holster gives users greater flexibility in how they organize their workspace. It maximizes wall storage, reduces bench clutter, and keeps essential tools within easy reach—helping users stay organized, work more efficiently, and get more done.
What we say:
Craftsman’s Versatrack Power Tool Holster is a focused storage accessory for keeping cordless V20 tools visible, protected, and within reach. Out of the box, you can mount it on Versatrack rails, Craftsman metal storage, or even standard pegboard. The holster supports up to 10 pounds—plenty for most handheld power tools. It clears up bench space and speeds up tool accessibility. As part of the Versatrack ecosystem, this accessory fits well into a load-rated wall organization system designed for durable, customizable workshop storage that can grow with a user’s tool collection.
Price: $19.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Backpacks
Veto Pro Pac VPP10944 TECH PAC MC EVO

What they said:
The Veto Pro Pac evo system allows tools to be securely integrated across bags, belts, and equipment, giving pros unmatched control, customization, and efficiency. The innovative technology features exclusive docks integrated on the exterior of tool bags and an evo system clip with integral magnets mounted to the back of each individual accessory. The TECH PAC MC EVO is a large tool backpack that includes two evo system docks for securely attaching pouches (such as MP1 EVO) with the evo system clip or other items with belt clips such as tape measures & pocket levels or included electrical tape strap.
The TECH PAC MC EVO also features two strips of molded vertical MOLLE for additional clip attachment points, a rugged thermoformed front-access pocket, an exterior manifold gauge and hose storage pocket, a trolley handle pass-through, and premium removable backpack straps with extra padding and reinforced materials for enhanced durability and comfort. The bag includes Veto Pro Pac’s proprietary V-SWAP™ system of interchangeable panels and comes with the Tool Panel and Meter Pocket Panel. Additional panels are sold separately, enabling alternative configurations for tool, gear, or job-specific storage solutions. The new evo system series is available in 4 models, including the TECH PAC EVO large tool backpack, TECH PAC MC EVO compact tool backpack, TECH-MCT EVO compact service tool bag, and TP-XXL EVO closable, extra-large tool pouch.
What we say:
For the price, the Tech Pac MC EVO may be the last backpack you ever purchase. The evo system turns a compact service backpack into a highly configurable tool system through the use of two exterior evo system docks with molded vertical MOLLE mounting points. Its V-SWAP panel architecture lets technicians easily attach pouches, meters, tape measures, and job-specific inserts to either side of the bag. The bag also adds a rugged thermoformed front pocket, exterior manifold gauge and hose storage pocket, and a luggage or trolley-handle pass-through. Veto continues to include a nice polypropylene base for impact and water resistance.
Price: $354.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Coolers/Warmers
Milwaukee Tool M18™ Jobsite Lunch Warmer 0811-20

What they said:
Milwaukee Tool continues to advance jobsite innovation with the introduction of the M18™ Jobsite Lunch Warmer; a personal, cordless, heating solution for jobsite meals. Designed to minimize downtime on the job, this new solution provides users with a hot meal on any jobsite. By allowing users to preset their mealtime and automatically warm food while they work, the lunch warmer eliminates breaktime frustrations and helps maintain productivity on the jobsite.
Additionally, this solution features adjustable heat settings (low, medium, high), allowing users to tailor temperatures to different meal types. Part of the M18™ system, the lunch warmer can heat up to two meals on a single M18™ REDLITHIUM™ XC5.0 battery, while a custom foam insulation keeps meals warm for up to 30 minutes after heating. This solution includes (2) 4.75 Cup stainless steel containers with leakproof lids to secure contents during transport; both the container and lid are dishwasher safe. The lunch warmer is rated IP54 for water and dust resistance to protect internal components and ensure durability from harsh environments. The M18™ Lunch Warmer is PACKOUT™ compatible, providing a seamless integration into Milwaukee’s modular storage system for easy transport and storage.
What we say:
A battery-powered microwave doesn’t quite make sense with today’s battery densities, but the Milwaukee M18 Jobsite Lunch Warmer bridges the gap, bringing a practical solution for jobsite meal warm-up. We love the fact that you can set a mealtime, choose your power level (low, medium, or high), and have it automatically heat up your food while you work. Custom foam insulation even maintains heat for up to 30 minutes after warming. It runs on any M18 RedLithium battery, but the updated standard XC5.0 battery can heat up to two meals per charge. It includes two 4.75-cup stainless-steel containers with leakproof, dishwasher-safe lids, and Milwaukee gave it an IP54 rating as well as Packout compatibility.
Price: $199
For more information, click here.
Winner – Disposal
Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE 34 Gal. Trash Can with Lid

What they said:
The Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE® 34 Gal. Trash Can builds on the iconic durability Home Depot Pros have trusted for decades while introducing meaningful enhancements that make everyday jobsite clean-up more efficient. The new BRUTE offers a true 34 gallon capacity, 2 gallons more than standard 32 gallon containers, allowing users to collect more waste before needing to empty the container. A new full grip bottom secondary handle provides better control when lifting and emptying heavy loads. Improved integrated liner cinches provide a more secure hold for poly liners, making liner changes faster and easier.
The new QuickClip System adds another level of functionality by allowing users to conveniently transport stick goods, such as brooms, shovels, and rakes, alongside the container. The same BRUTE durability remains at its core. Engineered to be 3X tougher to resist cracking, crushing, and warping, the container continues to feature the reinforced base, ribbed rim, venting channels, and robust handles that have made BRUTE the industry standard in demanding environments. Backed by a 10-year limited warranty, the Next Generation BRUTE delivers the same trusted performance professionals have relied on for decades.
What we say:
More isn’t always better, but having a couple extra gallons rarely hurts when it comes to trash cans. The Rubbermaid Brute 34 Gal. Trash Can provides 2 more gallons than standard 32-gallon containers. I wish every trash can had the full-grip bottom handle on this model that really helps when lifting and dumping heavy loads. Judges also loved the integrated liner cinches which help secure bags and make them faster to replace. An integrated venting-channel design also reduces suction, letting you remove liners more easily and quickly. This can is built to last.
Price: $42.97
For more information, click here.
Winner – Fixed
RYOBI STM420K FRAMEWORK Customizable Workbench Kit

What they said:
Transform your workspace with the RYOBI FRAMEWORK Customizable Workbench Kit. This all-in-one kit includes everything needed to create a fully customized workbench to fit any space, any size, anywhere. With the lumber of your choice to build the design you need, assembly is quick and easy with only straight cuts needed. The self-aligning screw guides ensure accuracy every time, without the guesswork.
With legs built from heavy-duty structural polymer, it supports up to 1,000 lbs. The 12-position adjustable middle shelf features easy-to-read leveling indicators, providing a custom level shelf the first time. With the 35” work height, this workbench is optimized for common projects, or you can add optional casters or level feet with the integrated mounting points. Create organized, easy access storage right where you need it with the included LINK Accessory Rail and LINK Single Organizer Bin.
What we say:
Ryobi has simplified what’s required to make a workbench in your garge or shop. Simply grab the Framework kit, decide on your desired length, and pick out the material you want to use for the cross/support lumber and top surfaces/shelves. Because everything is laid out for you, you only need to make a few straight cuts to complete your workbench or table. Self-aligning screw guides simplify the entire assembly process. The heavy-duty structural polymer legs support up to 1,000 lbs., and it includes the option to mount your middle shelf in any of 12 positions while the 35-inch work height is perfect for most projects. Ryobi also included mounting points for optional casters or leveling feet, plus they included a basic 2-spot LINK accessory rail.
Price: $69.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Modular
Milwaukee Tool PACKOUT™ Wire Pulling XL Crate

What they said:
The PACKOUT™ Wire Pulling XL Crate provides a streamlined solution for wire transport and pulling on the jobsite. This crate allows users to pull and store up to six spools of 500 ft 12‑gauge THHN wire (conduit and wire not included) directly from the crate. A wide front opening enables quick access while stacked with other PACKOUT™ components, while integrated wire retention slots keep individual wires organized and securely in place. This solution helps reduce setup time and material handling while improving efficiency for electrical professionals.
What we say:
All you need to do in order to use the Milwaukee Packout Wire Pulling XL Crate is add your spools to one or two 15.75-inch pieces of 1/2-inch conduit and drop them into the crate. It will let you quickly and easily pull wire without tangling up the spools or having to pull out individual spools. It holds up to six 500-foot spools of 12-gauge THHN wire and has front wire-retention slots to keep your conductors organized and ready to go. You also get plenty of access to pull—even when the crate is stacked as part of a Packout tower. Each crate supports 75-pounds.
Price: $119.97
For more information, click here.
Winner – Rolling Chests & Cabinets
WORKPRO 62″ x 20″ 7-Drawer & 2-Door Rolling Tool Chest

What they said:
This heavy-duty mobile tool cabinet features an innovative flat-pack construction that solves common challenges associated with traditional welded tool chests, including oversized shipping, high freight costs, and difficult transportation. Unlike conventional one-piece welded cabinets, this workstation uses a modular knock-down design that ships compactly and can be assembled on-site. The flat-pack structure makes it easier to transport through doorways, hallways, and staircases while reducing shipping and handling costs.
Assembly is designed to be simple and user-friendly. Numbered components and clear step-by-step instructions allow users to build a durable, workshop-grade cabinet using basic household tools. The engineered construction ensures a secure, stable fit without compromising strength or performance. By combining professional-grade durability with a smart modular design, this cabinet delivers the strength and storage of a traditional workstation while offering easier shipping, handling, and assembly for end users.
What we say:
The main innovation behind the Workpro 62″ x 20″ 7-Drawer & 2-Door Rolling Tool Chest is its installation portability. Most large-format chests and roller storage come pre-assembled, making them difficult or even impossible to bring into certain locations such as upper floors or high-rises. Now, you can order and receive even s large 62-inch roller cabinet with casters that arrives as a flat-pack ready to assemble. You still get a powder-coated steel cabinet, hardwood worktop, ball-bearing drawers, 5-inch industrial casters, and a side handle for easy maneuverability. Workpro made sure the instructions use numbered parts and step-by-step visual assembly guides to make it eaasy to assemble.
Price: $799.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Rolling Jobsite Storage
Wiha Tools 92200 158-Piece Industrial MRO Kit in Rolling Tool Box

What they said:
The Wiha 158 Piece Industrial MRO Rolling Case Kit is designed to redefine how professionals organize, transport, and access tools in maintenance, repair, and operations environments. Its innovation goes beyond simply bundling tools, it delivers a complete mobility and organization system built to improve efficiency on the job. At the center of the kit is its custom-engineered foam tray system. Each of the 158 tools is precisely fitted into high-density foam compartments, creating a highly visual “place-for-everything” layout.
The rolling hard case adds another layer of innovation by turning a full professional toolkit into a mobile workstation. Built for demanding industrial environments, the case is engineered to withstand impacts, dust, and moisture while maintaining tool protection during transport. Integrated wheels and a durable handle allow technicians to move a fully equipped kit directly to the point of service, reducing unnecessary trips back and forth to storage areas. What sets this kit apart in the industry is its shift from “tool storage” to “tool system thinking.” Rather than focusing only on the tools themselves, it optimizes how tools are stored, protected, and deployed in real-world workflows.
What we say:
What we liked about the Wiha Tools 92200 158-Piece Industrial MRO Kitwas that you get a truly complete maintenance set into a single rolling case that’s built for easy transport. Each try features custom foam tray compartments which not only keep the tools secure, they give you an immediate visual cue if any tools have not been replaced. Included are a full array of pliers, cutters, screwdrivers, L-key sets, wrenches, sockets, impact-rated bits, and even a dead-blow mallet. This is a truly compact yet comprehensive mobile workstation that shoudl work really well for commercial or industrial MRO professionals.
Price: $1345.08
For more information, click here.
Winner – Sawhorses/Supports
WORKPRO Folding Saw Horses 2 Pack

What they said:
Built from durable steel, these folding sawhorses support up to 900 lbs each (1,800 lbs per pair), providing reliable strength for woodworking, cutting, sanding, painting, repairs, and construction projects. The foldable design allows the legs to collapse quickly for compact storage in garages, workshops, sheds, or trucks. A unique Lock & Carry system securely locks both sawhorses together, making transportation and storage more convenient.
Engineered for stability, the sawhorses feature reinforced cross braces and anti-wobble steel legs that provide a secure work surface when handling lumber, plywood, power tools, and other heavy materials. Suitable for contractors, woodworkers, and DIY users, this versatile 2-pack sawhorse set delivers dependable performance for workshop, garage, and jobsite applications while maximizing portability and storage efficiency.
What we say:
The Workpro Folding Saw Horses impressed us with their combined 1800-pounds of material support. When you look at these sawhorses, their dimunitive size makes you wonder how thy made them that compact. The steel construction and reinforced cross braces can handle lumber, plywood, and impromptu power support needs for the likes of miter saws and similar. It has fold-flat legs and the Lock & Carry system makes it easy to carry them to and from the jobsite.
Price: $77.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Tool Boxes
GEARWRENCH GWBXMINIS 11″ 2-Drawer Mini Toolbox

What they said:
GEARWRENCH tool storage products are built for the day-to-day needs of professional users. The GEARWRENCH Mini Toolbox is specifically designed to work with the wide range of GEARWRENCH rolling tool cabinets, featuring a unique patent-pending hang hook feature that can be added to existing boxes for additional storage. The Mini Toolbox also features a texture-coated paint finish that increases resistance to corrosion, quality ball-bearing slides that increase durability, and aluminum drawer pulls for professional users.
What we say:
Lets face it, you’ve never seen a mini toolbox like this that hangs like a handy accessory right off the side of a “big brother” tool box. The Gearwrench GWBXMINIS is an 11-inch 2-drawer miniature toolbox that includes all of the professional features you’d expect from larger boxes. Rated for 30-pounds, you get a powder-coated finish, ball-bearing drawer slides, and EVA foam liners. Lastly, an integrated hanging lip lets you habg it off the lip of a rolling tool chest or cabinet for easily accessing your most-used tools or fasteners.
Price: $29.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Truck Boxes
WEATHER GUARD PACK RAT 338-5-04

What they said:
The all-new WEATHER GUARD® PACK RAT® allows professionals to transport more equipment, access tools faster and reduce downtime between jobs. The result is the strongest and most secure storage system in its class. The biggest innovation behind the new PACK RAT is its purpose-built steel construction. It features heavy-duty 14-gauge powder-coated steel construction with steel ball-bearing slides engineered to withstand the demanding conditions of professional trades. Every PACK RAT comes standard with the integrated 1KEY ULTRALOCK™ system, providing fleet managers and contractors with a simplified, single-key solution across truck boxes, drawer units and other compatible WEATHER GUARD products.
Adjustable and removable partitions allow users to create semi-custom storage layouts that adapt to changing tools, hardware and equipment from one job to the next. Full-extension drawers combined with an ergonomic full-width handle provide fast, one-motion access to tools. With a 425-lb drawer capacity, top-load ratings up to 2,000 pounds, and up to 40% more secure storage capacity than comparable systems, professionals can securely transport more tools, equipment and materials in a single vehicle. The reinforced top surface accommodates compressors, generators, and additional storage while anti-skid strips help keep equipment stable in transit. WEATHER GUARD also designed the PACK RAT to arrive pre-assembled, significantly reducing installation time and simplifying vehicle upfitting.
What we say:
Weather Guard’s Pack Rat gives you a durable truck storage option in a compact 48-inch footprint. Made from 14-gauge powder-coated steel, it delivers a 425-pound drawer rating and a 750-pound top-load capacity. Quality is clearly a priority as you get a full-extension drawer, 24 dividers, and one-touch access so tools are easier to reach. The integrated 1Key Ultralock system lers you use a single key across your entire fleet. Lastly, a reinforced, anti-skid top lets you place a full ton on top of this drawer.
Price: $2,424
For more information, click here.

