How To Build A Large And Versatile Tool Storage Unit Using Harbor Freight's ICON Line

Tool collections can easily get out of hand. While there are plenty of clever tips to declutter and organize your garage tool kit, it's tough to beat a good tool storage unit that can hold a wide variety of different-sized items. Harbor Freight has various tool storage brands to meet the needs and budgets of various people, and ICON is their premium line. It is designed primarily for professional technicians, though the range may also appeal to serious DIYers and home auto enthusiasts. ICON toolboxes are modular, so you can start with a single rolling base unit and add cabinets, work centers, or lockers as your needs change. This allows you to build a large and versatile storage system that fits together seamlessly.

These are heavy-duty toolboxes that come with a lifetime warranty. They have class-leading weight ratings to carry even the largest equipment sets. Drawers vary in size from shallow ones that allow quick access to wrenches to deep ones for power tools. There's also a charging drawer for USB devices and batteries. Small details like non-slip drawer liners and adjustable drawer opening force add to further utility and customization. You can pop into your local Harbor Freight store to check on specifications, but their website also has an interactive page to virtually configure different combinations. The price changes as you make selections, so you can immediately see how much your ideal build will cost you.

Harbor Freight's online configuration tool is accessed from the 'Build Now' button on the main ICON tool storage page. You start by choosing your color and selecting one of two base units at either 56 or 73 inches wide. They are cabinets set on casters with various-sized drawers. As you add other units to the sides and top, the total dimensions will automatically update on screen. Then, you can instantly see the width and height of your finished build and the price as you try different combinations. The latter will help you decide if you want to buy a whole system now or start with one or two units and purchase others as your needs expand.

To modify the base, you can add end cabs or lockers. This will depend on the tools or other equipment you want to store. End Cabs are a vertical cabinet of eight drawers, while End Lockers are a taller unit with a door and larger open shelves in addition to drawers. The versatility of the ICON storage is such that you can add either type to one or both ends. A Top Chest is another cabinet you can stack onto the base unit for more drawer space. However, if you need extra workspace, include an open Work Center Hutch with a stainless steel top instead. To really maximize storage, top it off with an Overhead Cab. There are lots of possibilities, so it's worth spending time thinking carefully about the type of tool storage you need.

On Harbor Freight's virtual customizer, you can view your build face-on or in 3D, helping you to plan and organize your garage like a professional. There's even an option to see it positioned against a garage wall. The tool is great for visualization, dimensions, and pricing, but ICON storage units still have to be ordered in-store.

All units come with free delivery, and that's when the fun starts. While customers usually find them easy to install, this stuff is heavy. For example, the shipping weight of the larger of the two base units is over 1,000 pounds. You'll need to think about how you're going to move them into place and how you're going to put them together. Several owners recommend using some kind of hoist or floor jack, and having friends to help is a very good idea.

ICON storage units consistently receive stellar reviews from happy owners, but they aren't cheap. If you're looking for budget-friendly ways to organize your garage, Harbor Freight's U.S. General collection has some interesting options. If you do choose ICON, existing customers believe you will be buying strong, high-quality units and will still make substantial savings when compared to market-leading competitors like Snap-On.