Rolling toolboxes are a practical solution for storing and transporting various tools effortlessly. With their built-in wheels and handles, these storage containers offer convenience and portability, enabling users to move them seamlessly between different locations. Designed to accommodate a wide range of tools including hand tools, power tools, and accessories, they come in diverse sizes and styles to cater to individual storage requirements.
- 1 Types of Rolling Tool Boxes
- 2 Who Benefits from Rolling Tool Boxes?
- 3 How do you move a tool chest?
- 4 Can I keep my tool chest outdoors?
- 5 What can you store in a rolling tool box?
- 6 How do you clean a tool box?
- 7 What are the different types of rolling tool boxes?
- 8 What should I consider when choosing a size?
- 9 What material should I choose for my rolling tool box?
- 10 Do rolling tool boxes come with locks?
- 11 Are there any specific features to look for in a rolling tool box?
- 12 Can rolling tool boxes be stored outdoors?
- 13 What is the average price range for a rolling tool box?
Manufactured using sturdy materials such as plastic, metal, or composite materials, rolling toolboxes ensure durability and long-term utility. This durability makes them highly sought-after by professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike, as they provide a reliable means of carrying tools to job sites, workshops, or home projects.
To efficiently complete DIY tasks with speed, accuracy, and minimal frustration, it is crucial to have organized tools that are easily accessible when needed. The utilization of rolling toolboxes and chests addresses this need effectively. These storage solutions enable users to keep all their tools, fasteners, and equipment within arm’s reach, thereby minimizing time wasted in frequent trips to a workbench or stationary tool chest.
9 Best Rolling Tool Boxes of 2023:Our Choice
- Best Overall:Goplus 6-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest
- Best for Tight Spaces:TANKSTORM Tool Chest Heavy Duty Cart Steel
- Best Value:Portable Tool Box
- Best With Pegboard:WORKPRO 24.5 Inch 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest
- Best With Workbench:Performance Tool W85025 3-Drawer Rolling
- Best Wall-Mounted:Toolbox Organizers and Storage by Stalwart
- BEST TOOL BOX STOOL:Husky Extra Deep 46 in. 9-Drawer
- Best Portable:Keter Master Pro Masterloader
- BEST LIGHT-DUTY:Goplus Rolling Tool Chest
Having a designated space to store and transport your tools can significantly impact your productivity, whether you’re working with multiple small tools in automotive projects or moving larger power tools around a job site. Rolling tool boxes provide a practical solution by incorporating drawers and bins that enable you to neatly arrange your tools while keeping them easily accessible.
Choosing the ideal rolling tool box for your needs depends on several factors, including the types of tools you use and how you intend to utilize the tool box. If you require mobility to work on cars in the driveway, or if you need to load the tool box onto your truck and transport it to various job sites, these considerations will play a vital role in determining the most suitable option for you.
#1.Goplus 6-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest

Pros
- Lined drawers
- Reasonable price
Cons
- No power strip
But if space is an issue, you’ll appreciate the upright configuration of the Goplus 6-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest. Instead of the typical 41-or-more inches in width, this tool chest measures just 23.5 inches across, so it’ll slip into a fairly narrow spot with ease.
The sturdy, cold-rolled steel tool chest has a large cabinet with a door, providing the perfect spot to stash your larger tools and supplies. The top of the upper portion lifts up so you can access the inner tray. In between, there are six drawers, two of which are deeper for larger tools. Each lined drawer can hold up to 22 pounds. Four hooks on the exterior are perfect for holding wrenches or other small tools.
The tool chest has a lock to keep your tools safe. Four casters, two with brakes, let you maneuver the chest to wherever you need it. If desired, you can separate the upper chest from the lower cabinet. The tool chest measures 23.5 inches wide, 52 inches tall, and 13 inches deep.
#2.TANKSTORM Tool Chest Heavy Duty Cart Steel

Pros
- Arrives mostly assembled
- Powder-coated finish
- Available in four colors
Cons
- Small size may be inconvenient
We really appreciate the multifunctional design of this option, featuring side-mounted hooks for hanging storage, a handle for easy steering, and a side tray with convenient screwdriver holes built in.
Two of the four rolling casters are able to lock in place, preventing the unit from accidentally rolling around while you work. The pair of drawers allow quick access for your commonly used tools, and a locking lower cabinet is perfect for keeping larger power tools.
#3.Portable Tool Box

Pros
- Stores both large and small items
- Locking lid for security
- Extendable handle for pulling
- Tip-out bottom bin for easy access
Cons
- Handle/wheels only on the bottom box
Each box is crafted from heavy steel and reinforced, injection-molded polymer to protect valuable tools while they’re in transit. Both the top and center boxes come with side handles for easy carrying.
In addition, the top box comes with a locking lid, and the center box features a pull-out drawer, and the rolling base tool box contains a tip-out bin. Accessing the contents of all three boxes without unstacking them is no problem. The Stalwart portable tool box measures 30 inches long by 21 inches high by 13 inches wide when assembled.
#4.WORKPRO 24.5 Inch 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest

Pros
- Can be separated into tool box and cabinet
- Lined drawers
Cons
- Low total weight limit
- Fairly small
But you don’t need to spend a bundle to keep your tool collection organized and at hand with the WORKPRO 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest. This reasonably priced steel tool chest is just the right size to store a small-to-medium selection of tools, but best of all, it won’t break your budget to do so. While not the most robust or large tool chest out there, it’s more than adequate for a home collection of tools used in various DIY projects.
The tool chest consists of two parts: an upper tool box with three drawers, and a lower chest with two drawers and a large storage cabinet. You can separate the two sections if desired, or use them stacked as shown. All drawers have ball-bearing slides. Four smooth-rolling 3-1/8-inch casters let you move the tool chest to where you need it, although this tool chest lacks a side handle for easy maneuvering.
The overall dimensions of the tool chest without including the wheels are 24.5 inches wide, 39.3 inches tall, and 13 inches deep. The total weight capacity is 110 pounds, and the tool chest itself weighs 68 pounds.
#5.Performance Tool W85025 3-Drawer Rolling

Pros
- 1-year warranty
- Storage trays flip up when not in use
Cons
- Not as much storage space as larger units
- Does not have a lock
We love its thick cushioned top—protected by heavy-duty vinyl—which provides a comfortable seat as you roll around the garage or workshop.
Its three storage drawers are 2.25 inches high, and a slotted storage tray on the rear of the unit sports 16 tool slots. Its sturdy metal construction is designed to support up to 350 total pounds of weight, and the magnetic trays keep your fasteners from rolling around your workspace.
#6.Toolbox Organizers and Storage by Stalwart

Pros
- Stores both large and small items
- See-through compartment lids
- Extendable handle
Cons
- Light duty (not suited for contents over 50 pounds)
The front of the top box features more compartments in a flip-down tray. Stow larger tools and objects inside the bottom of the top box or in the base box. The back of the unit comes with cable hooks to hold extension cords or tape rolls. The rolling base box has 4.2-inch wheels for easy pulling. And all of this comes at an affordable price point. Assembled, its dimensions are 17.5 inches long by 24.5 inches high by 10 inches wide.
#7.Husky Extra Deep 46 in. 9-Drawer

Pros
- Very durable construction
- Lined drawers
Cons
- Heavy and can be hard to move
If you’d love to tackle bigger projects in your workshop or garage, but lack the space for a separate workbench and tool chest, the Husky 46-Inch Tool Chest with Hardwood Top is the answer to your prayers.
There are nine lockable drawers total: one extra long, six regular, and two extra-deep. The bottom drawers each have a 200-pound weight capacity, while the other seven drawers each hold up to 100 pounds of tool weight. All drawers are lined to protect your tools and prevent scratches. There’s even an integrated charging bar on the side of the chest with four outlets and two USB ports so you can power up your tools’ batteries as needed.
#8.Keter Master Pro Masterloader

Pros
- Easy to wheel around
- Large wheels
- Lots of compartments
Cons
- Might be too bulky for those short on storage space
Its removable bins are also really functional and make it easy to organize and access your fasteners, anchors, and other small hardware.
Instead of just a single large compartment for your bulky tools and equipment, a handy moveable divider also allows you to customize it to fit your specific items.
#9.Goplus Rolling Tool Chest

Pros
- Ball-bearing drawer slides
- Four exterior hooks
- Lockable drawers
Cons
- Not as heavy-duty as other options
We appreciate the versatility of this Goplus model, which allows you to remove the lower drawers and use them as a standalone toolbox — perfect for when you need to be more mobile than the whole unit would otherwise allow. You could even place the toolbox on the top of the chest and use the open space below for storing extra large items.
Types of Rolling Tool Boxes
Rolling tool boxes come in various designs tailored to the types of tools they store and the projects they are used for. While all rolling tool boxes provide tool storage and easy mobility, different types offer distinct features that suit specific projects more effectively. Here are several types of rolling tool boxes:
- Rolling Tool Cart/Trolley: Resembling a kitchen cart, a rolling tool cart or “trolley” features a work surface on top that can hold small items like nuts, bolts, and spark plugs. It also offers additional storage space beneath the work surface. This storage area can be configured with pull-out drawers, bins, and shelves. A trolley-type cart can be easily moved to a designated storage spot or loaded with tools for a specific project, allowing for convenient access when working on tasks like car detailing in the driveway.
- Rolling Tool Chest: A rolling tool chest resembles a large upright box with multiple drawers, similar to a bedroom chest of drawers. This type of portable tool storage is commonly found in mechanics’ garages, with shallow drawers designed to hold sockets and wrenches. In an automotive garage, multiple rolling tool chests are often lined up against the walls, each filled with the small precision tools necessary for working on various vehicles. Woodworkers also find this type of tool storage useful, as the shallow drawers are ideal for organizing fasteners, bits, and other small supplies that can be difficult to locate when thrown into a box or bag.
- Rolling Tool Box Stool: A rolling tool box with a stool is a practical choice for projects that require frequent bending, such as exterior car detailing or outdoor pet grooming. The stool’s storage can range from a simple shelf above the wheelbase to multiple drawers and bins for accommodating more items. This type of tool box provides the convenience of having a stool to sit on while also offering storage space beneath for tools, serving as a comfortable alternative to wearing a tool belt and being easier on the back.
- Rolling Tool Box With Workbench: Similar to a rolling tool cart or trolley, a tool box with a workbench provides users with an additional work surface. This surface is suitable for holding paint cans, brushes, or other tools and accessories. Typically made of durable materials like wood, the workbench can withstand scratches and gouges, ensuring longevity and functionality.
Who Benefits from Rolling Tool Boxes?
Rolling tool boxes are specifically designed for individuals who require the ability to transport their tools from one location to another. This includes professionals such as contractors, handymen, mechanics, as well as DIY enthusiasts. The rolling feature of these tool boxes enhances mobility and convenience, making them suitable for various work environments.
Considerations for Choosing the Best Rolling Tool Box When selecting the most suitable rolling tool box for your needs, there are several factors to consider. These include the number and weight of the tools you intend to store, the size of the tools, the requirement for built-in electrical outlets, and the preference for a lockable box. Keep these important factors in mind while searching for the ideal rolling tool box:
Material
Many rolling tool boxes are constructed from heavy-gauge steel with rust and corrosion-resistant coatings to safeguard tools from dust, water, and the elements. However, while steel tool boxes are moisture resistant, they are not waterproof, and thus should be stored indoors in a garage or workshop when not in use. Another popular material for rolling tool boxes is heavy molded resin, which can withstand occasional exposure to showers. It is important to note that unless specified as waterproof, rain or water from sprinklers can seep into drawers or cabinet doors, potentially causing rust to the tools inside.
Size and Shape
The most common design for rolling tool boxes is square or oblong in shape, although there are a few round ones available, typically featuring built-in stools. Tool boxes with straight sides offer efficient storage space utilization as they can be pushed against a garage wall. Rolling tool boxes generally range from 2 to 8 feet in width, with varying heights and depths. Most tool boxes have a relatively shallow depth to avoid occupying excessive space along the garage wall.
Storage Capacity
When selecting a rolling tool box, consider the number and types of tools you need to store. If you have large power tools such as cordless drills, routers, and jigsaws, opt for a tool box with large bins or sturdy shelves capable of accommodating them. For automotive work, a tool box with small upper drawers for sockets and a few deeper drawers at the bottom for larger tools may be the optimal choice.
Tool Security
Considering the value of tools, it is important to ensure their security by choosing a locking tool box. Some models feature individual locking doors, while others utilize a bar-type lock that extends through all the doors. When security is a concern, it is also advisable to use a cable to secure the tool box to a fixed object, such as a lag bolt embedded in the concrete floor of a garage or workshop. However, it is essential to note that locking tool boxes are not impenetrable safes; they are designed to reduce the risk of theft rather than guarantee complete protection.
Maneuverability
Metal mechanic tool boxes often come with small casters, enabling users to easily push the tool box on paved concrete surfaces. If you anticipate the need to move the box across various terrains like a yard or patio, look for larger wheels capable of rolling over turf or gravel without difficulty. Certain job site rolling tool boxes feature two large wheels, along with a handle, allowing users to tilt the entire unit, similar to a hand truck, and pull it across uneven ground.
Additional Features
While most rolling tool boxes are designed with simplicity in mind, there are a few models that offer additional useful features:
- Electrical Outlets: These are commonly found in workbench or trolley-type rolling tool boxes. They allow users to conveniently plug in electrical tools directly at the tool box. To utilize this feature, a heavy-duty extension cord of 12 or 14-gauge can be plugged into the back of the cabinet and connected to an electrical outlet.
- USB Charging Port: This feature is often available as an optional add-on in tool boxes equipped with electrical outlets. It enables users to charge their cellphones or other devices while working on projects.
- In-Drawer Compartments: These compartments are practical for keeping small items, such as various sizes of fasteners, separated and well-organized within the tool box.
Portability
Portable rolling tool boxes are typically sets of two or three tool boxes that can be stacked on top of each other and easily rolled across the ground. They are called “portable” because the boxes can be detached, carried individually, and loaded into a truck. These boxes generally weigh less than 25 pounds when empty and often come with collapsible handles. Although some portable rolling tool boxes are made of metal, lightweight molded resin is a more common material choice. It’s important to note that the true portability of your tool box depends on the weight of the tools stored inside.
The Advantages of Owning a Rolling Tool Box
Having the necessary tools within reach significantly enhances the efficiency of any project. Instead of constantly moving between a tool chest and the project area, a rolling tool box allows you to bring the tools directly to where you’re working.With a rolling tool box, you can organize specific types of tools, such as sockets and wrenches for automotive work, and keep them easily accessible.
When you need to reconfigure your workspace, a rolling tool box offers the flexibility to move it anywhere within the garage.Some rolling tool boxes are designed to be portable, allowing you to load them with tools and transport everything to different job sites as needed.
FAQ
How do you move a tool chest?
Moving a tool chest is a big issue for people whose work requires transporting a lot of tools, and it can be a challenge depending on how heavy your tool chest is and how far you need to move it. Most tool chests have wheels to help you move them between locations and around a workspace. You can make moving a heavy tool chest a little less painful by removing drawers before transporting. For a smaller tool chest, try removing heavy items to lighten the load.
Can I keep my tool chest outdoors?
If space is limited inside your garage or workshop, you might be tempted to keep your tool chest in the yard or by the side of the garage. However, unless the tool chest is specifically made for outdoor use, this isn’t a good idea. Most tool chests are made of steel and will quickly rust if exposed to the elements, leading to damage to the tools stored inside.If you really don’t have room for a full tool chest, consider a wall-mounted option, or look for a plastic storage chest that can withstand rain without wetting the tools stored inside.
What can you store in a rolling tool box?
Any tools that will fit in the drawers, bins, or cubbies. While some rolling toolboxes will hold large power tools, many have shallow drawers that work well for organizing small tools and supplies, such as sockets and fasteners.
How do you clean a tool box?
You can usually use a spray-on, all-purpose cleaner and a rag to wipe off grease and gunk. For the best results, you’ll also want to clean your tools and keep them maintained to keep from getting the inside of the tool box dirty.[1]Organize and Clean Your Toolbox
What are the different types of rolling tool boxes?
There are different types of rolling tool boxes including chest-style boxes, cabinet-style boxes, and modular systems.[2]15 Different Types of Tool Chests and Cabinets
What should I consider when choosing a size?
Consider the number and size of tools you need to store, as well as the amount of space you have to store the box.
What material should I choose for my rolling tool box?
The most common materials for rolling tool boxes are plastic, metal, and composite materials. Consider factors such as durability, weight, and cost when making a decision.
Do rolling tool boxes come with locks?
Some rolling tool boxes come with locks, while others do not. Consider whether you need a lock for your tools, and whether the box you are considering has a lock.
Are there any specific features to look for in a rolling tool box?
Features to look for may include multiple drawers, organizing trays, and adjustable shelves. Consider your specific storage needs when choosing a box.
Can rolling tool boxes be stored outdoors?
Some rolling tool boxes are designed for indoor and outdoor use, while others may not be suitable for outdoor storage. Consider the materials and construction of the box, and choose one that is appropriate for your storage needs.
What is the average price range for a rolling tool box?
The price of a rolling tool box can range from under $50 to over $1000, depending on the size, material, and features. Consider your budget when choosing a box.
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