Is Your Toolbox Tough Enough?
This is a quick guide on what to look for when buying a new tool box, storage case or trunk locker; all common names for the same product. When buying a new toolbox, its important to consider a few important features to ensure you get a top quality tool box and value for money.
Solid, Sturdy Toolbox Walls- the Unbreakable Box?
One of the first things to look for is strength of construction. A solid, UV stabilized polyethylene storage box, is a great start as it is likely to be able to cope with the harsh Australian weather. Corrugated walls, rather than smooth, corrugated walls will provide a strength boost, as they allow for more plastic and more support to the design. Military style trunk lockers are a great example of a sturdy, long lasting toolbox, as they are designed to handle whatever can happen to them in the field. Ask the manufacturer how they have tested the strength of the tool boxes, or see if they have provided evidence of it on their website or retail display. The lid is also a good indicator of strength- a closed cell design will provide a strong, load-bearing support for the box, and will resist warping, crushing and caving in under pressure. Also, is the lid injected with polyurethane for additional strength and insulation? Also look for a minimum thickness of about 4mm. The type of polyethylene used is also important. LLDPE Linear Low Density Poly Ethylene is the best form of PE. It is harder and less malleable than other kinds on the market so choose a box of LLDPE. It won’t corrode either and is intrinsically safe also.
Handles Tool Boxes – Don’t Snap Your Fittings
Flimsy, cheap handles will snap easily, and need frequent replacing. Look for sturdy, heavy duty toolbox handles with a wide range of movement that lock into place at 90 degrees so your hand isn’t squashed against the box when picking it up, also so that your grasp and lift on the box is not limited or compromised. Recessed handles are also a key point, as they reduce the risk of snapping or catching while loading the box in and out of a vehicle or while moving it about the place.
Toolbox Latches- Secure Enough for your Gear?
Latches need to firmly secure the lid of the storage case, and fasten down easily, with no likelihood of opening themselves. There should be provision for you to lock the tool box securely, in order to safeguard your tools when in your ute, or to protect your children from harmful household chemicals. Hinges should be heavy duty, rust proof and firmly attached to the tool box. Where possible, find ones that have a low profile on the box, to avoid snagging on clothing or upholstery when being moved or loaded.
Tool Box Seals- Will they keep the dirt out?
Some manufacturers will add a dust seal to their toolboxes as an extra measure to protect your goods from airborne particles on work sites and around the house. Look for a thick seal that runs around the entire lid of the toolbox to seal it completely while closed. This also aid in keeping out rain / water as well as vermin and insects.
Mounting Your Ute / Utility Toolboxes – Tradie Tough Boxes
If you plan on hard-bolting your toolbox in your ute tray, check to see whether the manufacturer has made provisions to protect the contents of the box from any water that may get under the box. This is where corrugated designs perform the best, as you can hard bolt at the higher points of the corrugation to ensure that the holes made in the bottom or your tool box will sit clear of any puddles or damp that may form at the bottom of your ute tray.
Stackable Storage Boxes – Safety Concerns
An important thing to consider when purchasing storage is how much room it will take up. A stackable design will not only provide you with abundant secure storage, but will also leave you with a safe stack if you have more than one box. The design will interlock from lid to base and minimize any chance of boxes sliding off or toppling.
Trunk Locker – Military / Army Style Tool Boxes – King Of Toolboxes!
The Trunk Locker is a particular brand of tool boxes that features most all of these design features mentioned. They are strong, tough and sturdy and are built to last a very long time as per a military style box that is used in the field. They are secure, can be hard bolted in a ute, they are stackable and are made of UV stabilized polyethylene and will last the test of time- living in the sun, rain and whatever else you can throw at them in between. Visit the site at www.bigterrain.com.au and watch all the virtual tours to see what sets these boxes apart
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