Buying a Tool Tray or Tool Organizer Print E-mail
Buying Guides - Jobsite Equipment and Storage


To increase efficiency and productivity in any task, easy access and organization of your tools is essential. An efficient way to organize your tools is by using a tool tray, which is a device that systematically arranges your tools. In its most basic design, a tool tray is suitable for storing commonly used tools as well as work supplies. The compartments allow storage of items ranging in size, from tiny nuts, bolts, and screws, to relatively large items such as Hammers, Pliers, chisels, vice grips, and saws. Tool trays can either be used to store tools in a stationary location, or can be portable with a hinged cover, that securely holds the items kept within. Tool trays are used by almost all categories of workers, including electricians, plumbers, carpenters, painters, masons, and building contractors.

Features of tool trays and tool organizers

The tool tray is built for durability and has a rugged construction capable of supporting heavy metal tools. Some tool trays have a detachable tote tray that enhances portability and allows tools to be separated depending on size. The body of a tool tray is further reinforced with nickel-plated linings, hardened steel draw bolts, and galvanized steel hinge pins. Tool trays come in various sizes to suit all preferences and purposes. They can be fit into tool boxes, shelves, and work benches. Some tool boxes have a stackable design, with multiple tiers for storage of a greater number of items. Since most trays are kept on an even work table or work bench, they usually have a flat bottom to minimize the chances of tipping over or slipping.

Some small tool boxes resemble a small suitcase with a base and a hinged lid with fastener. They are commonly made from a polypropylene material which can withstand most weather conditions. Often there are storage compartments on the underside of the opened lid too. Tool organizers can also double up as carry bags, with strong canvas constructions having external as well as internal pockets. With a hard bottom and a shoulder strap, all necessary tools can be toted around at anytime. For heavy tools, organizers having castors are available, which can be rolled along the ground. These castors, made of soft rubber, prevent any scratching on the interior floors too. These wheeled tool organizers have large storage capacities with side pockets too. Side handles are provided to enable the device to be carried over any obstacles along the way.

Some tool organizers are aligned vertically with hooks and slots for hanging tools. This device may have a hard or flexible nylon back which can be hung on a wall. Cast metal corner brackets and a heavy duty denier frame increase the tenacity of the organizer. Some smaller tools, which cannot be hung, can be placed in transparent pockets. The layout of the tools follows a simple logical arrangement that makes locating a tool most easy.

Ladder hanging tool trays resemble a traditional open tray with hooks to be hung on the ladder rungs. This appendage is suitable for workers whose jobs involve tasks near ceilings enabling them to place the tools on the tray thus freeing both their hands.

An aluminum flight case too is a type of tool case, which has dividers at the bottom and pockets in the lid. With chrome embellishments and a sturdy plastic handle, this case combines style with efficiency. A strong shoulder strap makes for easy portability.

Another kind of tool tray consists of a long rod mounted over a tripod which hooks and trays placed at regular intervals. The gadget can be rotated enabling any tool to be easily picked up. Some of these upright tool trays even incorporate weighing machines.

What to look for in a tool tray / organizer

Tool trays are nowadays used by professional workers as well as weekend workshop enthusiasts. Depending on user preferences, a variety of tool trays are available. If you are required to travel a lot for your work, a portable tool tray or tool case would be ideal. However if you have a fixed workshop or you are using the tools at home, then even an upright or hangable tool tray would be suitable. People in different professions fill their tool trays with varied implements. Electricians would normally fill their tray interiors with electrical tape, staples, cover plates, and wire nuts; and the exterior pockets with drill bits, wire cutters, and wire strippers. Plumbers, on the other hand, would occupy their tray interiors with washers, solders, pipe fittings, and copper fittings; and the side pockets with Wrenches, files, or pliers.

Some reputed tool tray and tool organizer manufacturers include Bucket Boss, Ernst, Pit Pal, Plastic Techniques Incorporated, RB Components, and Teng Tools.

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