Is Milwaukee's Modular Tool Storage Worth The Hefty Price Tag?

Choosing a new toolbox can be a daunting task. The boxes can be expensive, and you really want to find something durable and functional while avoiding the popular toolboxes that are not worth buying, based on reviews. Luckily, there are some trusted brands with storage systems worth considering. The Milwaukee brand has been in business for over 100 years and is known for creating iconic and durable tools for professionals and individuals. Based on their quality and reputation, there are some Milwaukee products you should not pass on even if you are not in the market for tools. In addition to tools, Milwaukee has also developed the Packout modular storage system for tool organization.

The Packout modular storage system consists of toolboxes, organizers, and more that are designed to organize, store, and transport tools. Choose among the rolling storage, toolboxes, attachments, bags, mounting systems, hooks, holders, kits, and more to build a system that works for you. If you are just getting started with the system and looking for a new toolbox, then the 3-drawer toolbox may be a good place for you to start. However, with the high cost of $179 at Home Depot, you should definitely weigh the pros and cons before making any purchases. The box may be worth it for you if you plan to use it with the rest of the modular system or like the benefits related to transportation. However, if you are focusing on organization or dislike the fragility of plastic, then this tool storage system may not be worth the price for you.

The 3-drawer toolbox is made of impact-resistant polymers and has metal-reinforced corners to improve the durability. The box has a weight capacity of 50 pounds and features a security locking system to keep the drawers locked during transportation. A benefit of this box is that when you buy the 3-drawer box, you also get one set of Milwaukee's adjustable drawer dividers that let you customize your organization. The dividers create up to nine compartments in a drawer, and you can purchase additional sets of dividers for $9.99 that also consist of six small pieces and two long pieces to further customize. If you have an organization system you know you want to use in the drawers, then this toolbox gives you that flexibility.

Another potential major benefit of the box is its integration in the rest of the Packout system. The toolboxes have modular connectivity with all of the other products in the system, including the carts, dollies, and other toolboxes. There are also other organizer systems that will fit perfectly with the toolbox for even more control of the design. If this is your first item in the Milwaukee Packout system and you like the transportation element of the system, you will probably find yourself wondering if Milwaukee rolling toolboxes are any good and what to know before buying. For anyone looking to build and customize a cohesive storage system over time to suit every need, then investing in the Packout system is worth the price.

While the system seems to have some interesting features and design elements, there are some reasons why you may want to avoid this toolbox, especially given the price. If your main goal is to store small parts and really sort out your tools, then the single set of dividers that the toolbox comes with is a major drawback. If you are creating the nine small sections using the dividers, then all of the included dividers will be used up in one drawer. If you want the same layout in each drawer, you are looking at spending about $20 more, bringing the total cost to about $200.

Additionally, while the Milwaukee brand emphasizes durability and the toolbox has some metal reinforcement, the overall box is made of plastic. Plastic toolboxes simply do not last as long as metal ones. If you know you will be storing heavy items and not moving around the box too much, then a metal toolbox, which typically has a higher weight capacity than the 50 pounds of the Milwaukee 3-drawer, may be a better fit. 

So, before you buy into the Milwaukee Packout system, assess your needs and determine if the overall features are worth the price. If you care more about having lots of organization sections rather than custom ones, are uninterested in the rest of the Packout system, or want a highly durable toolbox, then the Milwaukee 3-drawer toolbox is probably not the best option for you.