Does your business operation involve moving away from the main facility? Perhaps you are a mechanic, and your clients call from their homes or when stuck on the road and you have to go there to repair their vehicles. For a construction professional, off-site operations might involve building structures, such as bridges and houses, while mining firms might require running off-site rigs. No matter why you need to operate off-site, one of the most important components is a toolbox to carry your tools and accessories for the job. 

This post takes a closer look at the toolboxes to help you identify the best one for your operations. 

What is a Toolbox?

A toolbox is a storage unit designed for organizing, protecting, and carrying tools. However, the content of the toolbox might vary depending on the job at hand. It could mean a tiny box for storing a few screwdrivers and pliers for a DIY person working in the backyard or a high-end forensic unit with both hand or power tools and important reagents. 

This post highlights the common types of toolboxes on the market today and useful tips to consider when selecting them. Do not just pick any toolbox; go for the best!

The Main Types of Toolboxes on the Market

• Plastic Toolboxes

As the name suggests, these toolboxes are designed using plastic and are pretty inexpensive. They can take varying shapes, from square boxes to rectangular models, and can be an awesome pick for your quick access tools, such as screws, hammers, and wrenches. 

When selecting a plastic toolbox, consider looking for the model designed with separated sections, such as trays and bins, for better tool organization. You might also want to check the one with a cantilever design that spreads outwards when opened. If you will be leaving the toolbox onsite, make sure to go for the model with a good locking system. 

• Aluminum Tool Boxes 

While the plastic tool boxes have the advantage of being lightweight, they are not as durable as the metallic models. A better option, which is stronger and more durable, might be aluminum models. They are the most preferred models, especially in aviation, transportation, and off-site chemical-related operations. 

• Steel Tool Boxes 

If you need to carry a lot of tools, which are also heavy, a steel toolbox might be the perfect find. These toolboxes are designed for extra durability, strength, and wear resistance. Most engineers, industrial maintenance professionals for off-site motors, pumps, or other equipment prefer the steel tool boxes because they are also more secure compared to the plastic and aluminum models. 

• Waterproof Toolboxes 

When working off-site and outdoors or in areas where the risk of the tools getting wet is high, it will be a good idea to look for a toolbox designed with waterproofing capabilities. This will ensure that the tools remain dry and the testing equipment will not be compromised. These boxes might take the form of plastic, aluminum, or steel design but feature additional seals and a lid that prevents water from getting inside. These additions might make these toolboxes heavier than others. 

Tips for Selecting a Great Toolbox 

Now that we have highlighted the main categories of toolboxes for off-site operations, here are some useful tips to help you narrow down to the best option: 

• Determine your tools storage needs. For example, what tools do you want to carry? Are they only a few drivers, wrenches, and nuts, or include larger types, such as pneumatic air tools? 
• Waterproofing abilities. The best toolbox is the model that can help to protect your tools in all weather conditions, especially from getting wet. 
• Think about weight. If you will need to keep moving around when using the tools, it will be a good idea to go for the lightweight models. 
• If your firm is so specific about the image and brand, go for the toolbox with matching colors. 

As you can see, there are many categories of toolboxes that you can select and work with when operating off-site. Therefore, make sure to think about the task at hand, the tools to be carried, and the targeted durability. Remember that just like your tools, the toolbox should also be maintained in top condition.