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No Toolbox? Here are 9 Alternatives That Really Work

You want to keep your tools organized, but with various jobs and tools for every task, keeping things in order can be difficult. If you don't have a traditional toolbox, here are 10 alternatives for organizing your tools—both in the workshop and on the job.

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Bucket Boss

The Bucket Boss is a durable organizer that helps keep tools organized when a toolbox isn’t available. Highly durable and easy-to-use, it has 30 pockets and loops for tools such as hammers, drills and pry bars. It fits over most 5-gallon buckets.

Buy it now on Amazon.

2 / 9

Magnetic Tool Holder

Use magnets to keep heavy tools in place. This pack of four magnetic strips help keep items such as hammers, wrenches, screwdrivers and pliers where they belong in the workshop.

Buy it now on Amazon.

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Storage Tech Cart

Perfect for the workshop or garage, this storage tech cart from Harbor Freight has plenty of space to store tools for every job. It features lockable drawers and offers 4,847 cubic inches of storage. Buy it here.

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Via Merchant

Pegboard Organizer

When you want to keep tools within easy reach, a pegboard organizer is a great alternative to the toolbox. Perfect for the workshop, garage or basement, this heavy-duty wall organizer is easy to install and includes the mounting hardware.

Buy it now on Amazon.

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Rolling Organizer

Show up at the job site organized and ready to get to work with this portable rolling toolbox. It has compartmentalized bins and a locking system for security.

Buy it now on Amazon.

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Pocket Tool Roll

When you need to carry just a few tools, this 14-pocket tool roll from Harbor Freight will come in handy. Instead of hauling around that big toolbox, just take what you need to get the job done.

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Ultimate Rolling Cabinet

For workshops that need some serious organization, Northern Tool offers this rolling tool cabinet. With 21 drawers and a capacity for holding 1,200 pounds, it has a spot for all your tools. Buy it here.

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Family Handyman

Mini Multi-Level Storage Box

Better than your traditional toolbox, this utility box has storage drawers that are ideal for storing nuts and bolts, nails, washers and screws. The top bin has room for small hand tools and a locking clip.

Buy it now on Amazon.

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via Milwaukee Tool

Carpenter’s Pouch

This carpenter’s pouch from Milwaukee Tool has 17 pockets to organize tools and easily transport them from job to job. It has a 3-inch-wide belt slot and an easy-to-carry handle.

Rachel Brougham

Rachel Brougham lived through a major home renovation in 2019, knows the ups and downs of home improvement, and loves sharing tips with readers. A veteran journalist of both print and television, she’s won several awards for her writing and has covered everything from the environment and education to health care, politics and food. She’s written for several publications beyond newspapers including Bob Vila, Taste of Home and Minnesota Parent, and she currently writes a weekly syndicated newspaper column. Her memoir, Widowland, about the sudden loss of her husband, was published in 2022. She specializes in everything from home decor and design to lawn and garden, product reviews and pet care. When she’s not writing, you can usually find her tending to her garden (both vegetables and native plants), playing with her dog, watching sports with her family or getting some exercise. A native of Michigan, she currently lives in Minneapolis. An avid user of Instagram, you can follow her @RachBrougham.