Time to Upgrade Your Tools Box or Roll Cart

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[@fernandoaguila8901]

When I started I bought an old blue point tool cart from one of the mechanics I worked with for $40. I spent my money on tools first.

[@charlesshankle3178]

This advice is spot on. A large roll cart will help you keep all your tools handy. This is how you make the money. Harbor freight cart is likely the best starting out. The tool truck brands are useful for Hardline and specialty tools

[@mikebotkin2008]

Totally agree. 👍🏼 Started working at a Cadillac dealership in ‘92 and carried a Snap-On KRA25D and a 2 drawer Craftsman tool box chest 🧰 along with a Klein Tool canvas tote for impacts and torque wrenches - Everyday from parking lot to shop. Built up legs and traps carrying them. 3 months in, I bought a giant Matco “taco stand” and within a month, left the industry to go fly. 🤦🏼‍♂️

[@aceseightsazhvacsparkyandg8138]

I kave snap on and cornwell and I like my us general just as good . And I been in the fild for 15 years plus . Now the boxes are made most alike

[@juice_whoranit]

This Thursday I'm getting out of my almost 4yr old husky (home depot special) box, and getting a Mac tech series at 3k less than retail. 🤘🤘

[@vtxjeff6189]

I started out relying on shop provided tools, saw quickly how much time I wasted searching for said tools when I needed them, saw that the shop did not provide specialty tools for specific applications, so I decided early on I should definitely invest in my career so I started out with a 4 drawer harbor freight cart and some basic tools. Kept investing in tools as I found the need for them and when I ran out of room I went and got a good size kobalt box sold my little hf cart and got a napa 4 drawer cart. Haven't ran out of room yet but if I do I've got my eye on the next box already.

[@autohelix]

I agree 100%. when I was in Community College. The snap-on dealer was trying to sell us $5,000 starter sets. None of us had jobs in the field, and all the jobs in the area were only paying $8.50 an hour to start out. I already had a bunch of tools I bought a Viper box from Sears was about $1,100. Still have it 6 years later works fine.

[@devoncoolman88]

Same thing i always say. So many guys preach tool box doesn’t make you a dime. Which is mostly true. But a box thats piled up with tools and is unorganized and too small can cost you tons of time and money. Also if you loose stuff and end up buying it again to only find you put it under something in some abyss of a drawer it can cost you even more.

[@BIGVINNY99]

I bought a harbor freight 72" box and a side locker for less than 1000 5yrs ago. I was gifted one of the smaller harbor freight tool carts when I started for my birthday that year, still using it now. I added a side tray and welded it so it couldn't get bumped down on accident. I think I'm ready to get into a full size split top tool cart so I can put all my daily use repair stuff into the cart and be able to spread out in my big box more. Lots of guys I work with get into the field, buy a big cart and run out of room before paying it off and feel the need to get a snapon or marco big box. I always try to convince them to get a harbor freight or similar box. Even though I have a cheap tool box/cart set up. My work space is much tidier and we'll organized than anyone else in my shop. People always comment on how my area looks so professional despite my cheap set up. Don't think you'll look cheesy with a harbor freight box, it's all about how you use it, how you work and how well you maintain your work space.

[@embreesmith7613]

what made the most difference to me was getting all the cased tool sets into a HF tool cabinet ..mostly you do not use the sets that often ..vacuum bleeder, rad pressure test, etc.. I guess I have been lucky as all my 6 boxes , snappy, mac .. were bought used

[@BaldeeeLoxx_]

You have the nicest box I have ever seen.

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you very much!

[@lingimee]

I agree!

[@markzamora2106]

I can always appreciate ur videos new and old. I learn from experience and listening to those WITH experience and u sir have alot of experience to learn from that has helped me alot. Thanks for taking the time to make the videos

[@kb01663]

The big cabinet is a great idea if you have a lot molded cases, just looked a Husky 72x48 is like $400, you could pack that thing deep. Storage to cost ratio is way better than buying another $5000 tool box

[@colemanbonner]

I’m loving this Cornwell Power Cart. I use it as a secondary stationary box, beside my big Macsimizer. The vertical power drawer is super slick and the inner top is extremely deep

[@ForeignAuthority]

Subscribed ! Been wrenching for about four years now but just upgraded from small Craftsman top chest to Matco roll cart ! Mostly everything you say is on point .. Like hearing all the tool talk whenever I want lol cool channel bro.

[@snapmac5547]

I really like all your common sense videos. Folks should apply your advice. It all comes down to want versus need. We all want but don't necessarily need.

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you very much!

[@tomyee1336]

I like your video. It's so true I worked out of a snap on t7 cart for 2 yrs before upgrading to a krsc326 box because I need room for my hammers. Air tools and impacts. I waited till my car was about to tip over before I bought a new tool box.

[@flatratemaster]

LOL, Thank you!

[@danielhenderson5258]

I went from a Matco 4S box with a locker that I had for 13 yrs loved it took care of it. Traded it in for a snap on EPIQ with locker hutch and stainless top. I’ve had it now for a yr and I’m still trying to fill it. It also helps to keep thing very well organized. Try to use every inch of the drawers. And lay it out so you can get to the tools you use the most. When it’s payed off I’m buying a new roll cart. Mine is over loaded lol.

[@Cease0886]

I have a husky 65 inch tool box and that thing has held up pretty damn good. And im a full time technician.

[@salo1808]

My 2nd month into my career I bought a used Mac tech 1000 for 600 bucks. It’s a little beat up but it keeps my tools organized and safe

[@stevenm9813]

I have a 5 drawer HF service cart and finally out grew it, when I switched from a lube tech to a full tech. I now have a massive cornwell box, that I bought used for 500 from my brother. As for my old box, I still have it. It's still a good box, i put my special tools, scan tools, and tools i rarely use in it.

[@monkey32z]

I work out of a Harbor freight roll cart. My main box is a Snap On starter double bank with a full drawer upper. Been a mech since I was 5 in me pops shop. 44 now. I will only upgrade my boxes depending on budget and need.

[@Thebamerx98]

My 02 cents is start with a mid size starter from a non tool truck box fill the box to the top then figure out what size box gives you room for growth and the long term. I went from a 54x20 box to my matco 6s 77x28 and it made my tools so much more accessible and organized but left me with plenty of room to buy more tools and grow. I’m hoping for 5 years before another upgrade or add on

[@Anonymous..VQ3.5Lg35]

My hardest thing is finding the box that has a drawer selection/ layout i like!

[@niteninja0133]

I bought a monster cart and worked outta that for 3yrs and had it packed full then bought a double bay from snap on and it was full after i took everything from the cart. But with the cart it allowed me to buy all the tools i needed first then i was able to upgrade and only had the box to pay for

[@allenstrandberg]

my snap-on dealer did not try to push me into a big new box he ask me what i was look for and sold me a used box that works for me for 1000

[@flatratemaster]

Quality dealer!

[@metalmaster624]

I went from a craftsman to a used KRA 4107 for my first real truck box. Couldn't be happier with it.

[@corykluthe355]

I worked out of 2 piece craftsman for 10 years. Was to the point i needed to upgrade as was out of room. But then i got my gpas old mac box of him so now im just working out of 2 boxes and it works for me for now. No payment is what i like

[@taylorbabesh2988]

Been in the field for 2 1/2 years and the harbor freight 44 inch top and bottom as well as tool cart has worked great for me. I am just running out of room and have a 72 inch box from strictly tool boxes on order. I would recommend the harbor freight to anyone starting out hands down

[@flatratemaster]

Great starter boxes, let me know how the strictly tool box does for you, I have heard good thing but never seen one in person and talked with someone that has used them professionally for an real amount of time.

[@taylorbabesh2988]

The only I bought is made by extreme tool boxes but is there gatorbuilt brand which has more load capacity on all the drawers and they threw in a free stainless top for pre ordering it. For a little less than 2k for the size I couldnt pass it up. Only problem is I have to wait till next month to get it. Here is a link to it www.strictlytoolboxes.com/all-toolbox/all-toolboxes-by-size/all-72-inch-toolboxes/gator-built-72-19-drawer-tool-cabinet.html

[@flatratemaster]

nice!

[@anthonybeaudry6066]

Hey Taylor, I have had my Extreme box now for a while and am very impressed with the quality. 30 inch deep drawers are the way to go. Very well built 57 inch roll cabinet with top box and side locker for 5700.00. Was very skeptical at first before i made the purchase but i am glad i did. Paint finish is a little more orange peel to it but the build quality is there. I also got mine from strictly tool boxes couldn't bee happier, Tony

[@johnerickson8234]

I wish you were around when I started as an apprentice. Appreciate the video you did a good job thumbs up bro

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you very much!

[@Gl4uc0n]

I just upgraded my small 5-drawer Craftsman (26"?) box to a 44" US General Double bank. A few of my coworkers were telling me to go with a Snap-On or Matco box. I went with the Harbor Freight box because I saw how they held up with daily use, it fit my needs, and I could pay for it without going into debt. My box is paid off. No 2-3 years of payments.

[@EverydayJ1786]

I work in a municipal fleet shop and are often moved to different bays within the shop. my current 73" triple bay is too hard to push around . I just downgraded and traded straight across for a matco jsc770 ! thanks to the flat rate master , seeing his jsc770 made me opt for the matco cart over other brands .

[@flatratemaster]

Glad I could help with your decision! it is a great cart! LOL I can imagine moving a triple bank around all day!

[@devoncoolman88]

Jord TheMechanic ive had a jsc770 for 3 years now. Its been a great cart. Big and well thought out.

[@altonbarbee8864]

I use a 52 inch husky top and bottom box with a craftsman locker and 7 drawer end cabinet. My cart is a 4 drawer u.s. general. I have been a tech for 30 years and never had a tool truck box.

[@robertramirez908]

New techs, listen to this guy. I got 15yrs in this and this my story. At 5yr bought a 3 bay snap on. 3yr later got a locker. Last year got the hutch, just cause I got a good deal.

[@littleRastaman]

Thx for being straight forward on tool boxes and what area in technician career on what tool box is needed.

[@flatratemaster]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@peternajduk7841]

Great advice. I have a 30” husky roll cart and 66” Milwaukee bench. Started with wooden locker and now have 2 roller lockers. Wait for a sale cuz it will go on sale after you pay full price. I’m in my 4th year 310S. Spend approximately $6000 a year on tools.

[@fernandoaguila8901]

great video👍👍👍 I'm on that boat right now. I need to upgrade my Snap On Box it's full.

[@flatratemaster]

Yeah, it happens a lot:) Hope this video was helpful!

[@robertjackson3929]

This channel is awesome

[@thatdude8247]

Instead of buying a big box I just bought more rolling carts... Way cheaper, easier to move from place to place and can have each cart set up for specific things.... And I've got more than enough room for everything and then some. Got a impact cart with all the sockets extensions guns both electric and pneumatic, got the shiney chrome cart ratchets breaker bars sockets got a wrench cart stubby, flex head, ratchet wrenches, long handle got an electric cart with testers, meters, connectors, strippers. Then I have my cart I keep with my everyday stuff, you pretty much know you'll need for everything. It's so much simpler to me that way. But to each their own I guess

[@jasontinkham5570]

Agree, get the harbor freight box and cart, fill them up. Don't buy standard SAE off of a tool truck.

[@normansmith7806]

Good video great advice !

[@flatratemaster]

Thanks Norman!

[@DOYLECLEVERLOBE1]

Good advice

[@flatratemaster]

Glad you agree :)

[@olivercastillo7216]

I started with the Harbor Freight 5 drawer roll cart and then bought the 44 inch roll cab. Less than 2 years into my career and I'm already out of space. If I could start over, I would buy their 34 inch full bank service cart, or if money was tight, their 26 inch roll cab. I also should've spent the extra money and gotten their 56 inch tool box instead of the 44 inch. I am currently waiting for my boss to get his new Snap-On box, and I will be buying his old Matco 6s 84 inch box with a hutch for a deal so good, I couldn't resist.

[@poonbandit9924]

I was lucky when I started my old man bought me the 40” snap on 6 drawer roll cart and the basics. After school I worked out of it for 2 years and traded for a maximizer 2 bay, kinda wishing I didn’t trade that cart now, it would ward off the thoughts of buying a 3 bay….

[@DavidsonMott]

The way I would put it, put together a list of tools you want to start with, then get the biggest/quality box you can with the remaining budget...thus room to expand.

[@robertschultz9260]

Full length drawers are way better for storage then the little ones. I also like a cheepo harbor freight for storage of non tools like wiring supplies, orings, snap rings, etc.. Keeps them organized for a few hundred bucks.

[@flatratemaster]

Yes they are! on both counts!

[@kadenm9522]

Flat Rate Master do you still have your snap on tool box

[@TheEricstaehlin321]

awesome video thanks

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you!

[@BGGarage]

I didnt watch the whole video yet, probably you mention it- but used for band name boxes is an awesome way to go! Often times can score a nice snapon/mac/cornwell roll cart for not too much more than a higher end HF unit!

[@christopherelrod8788]

Ya I learned that. My 72 inch snap on honestly is not much more space than my 48inch sunnex roll cart (got my big box before my small one for a steal as well and the small one was free)

[@fatknucklesproductions7517]

I was going to add onto my Matco box a hutch and a top drawer, which was going to be around 5k, Matco man made me a deal for trade in my double bay for triple bay with extra top drawer for free+ hutch for 15% off all works out to around 6k so that seemed more cost effective to me

[@anthonygm85]

Get two craftsmen 5 or 7 drawer base boxes and bolt em together and get the top boxes. Just a thought. I just scored a old Waterloo for free

[@quinns3414]

It's interesting how the repossession thing works. Buyers who are not aware could seriously get burned if they didn't know to look up the serial #. Good to know.

[@iGaRaai90]

10 years in the Trade and my current roll cart is the same size as my first tool box

[@michaelmckay]

I have a Husky box, the only problem I have is the weight they can handle on the slides is not much. Looking at a Lista box now.

[@darrickhorsey]

Nobody's talking about Milwaukee boxes .. fantastic value!!! Definitely above cheap options

[@4everwatchingalwayshere475]

Same exact box of husky there junk

[@Dcc357]

If you have a 3 drawer service cart, and you decide to buy another tool storage unit to go with the service cart, I would not buy another service cart that may have 5 or 6 drawers. Yeah, you total out 8 to 9 drawers. However, you will fill it up much quicker than you would fill, let's say, a 54 inch double bank box with 9 or more drawers. Carts are skinnier and have less drawer depth, too. Most carts also have short drawers, which means huge things like cases full of special tools will have to be stored lying flat. This takes up a ton of useful space in carts. Boxes usually come with a very deep drawer or 2 that allow you to let things like cases to be stored standing up, allowing several of them to fit in 1 drawer.

[@mr.charley1507]

Affordability is a big factor as well...

[@lovemym16]

I always tell guys to invest money in the tools they need. And buy a less expensive toolbox like the 72 inch harbor Freight box. And if they need any more room the 26 inche bottom box doubles as a great roll cart .

[@yotatech5032]

Get 2 side lockers on your box 💯 it would look so good

[@Ken-wu6hr]

Luckily I Have a Whole Shop. If I had to lock up all My tools I'd Be in Big Trouble

[@flatratemaster]

LOL!

[@bryansenulis2975]

Matco and cornwell and mack became all re branded tools from gear wrench or astro or compamys.....trust me....craftsman now Milwaukee

[@rustyshacklefordspocketsqu8162]

i was told not to buy an expensive box as a bodyman cuz it ends up covered in overspray and you have to cutout drawers to fit the bigger tools. i bought a used beach rollercab for $200 and a $350 on sale mastercraft rollercab for $100. my parents got me a mastercraft chest for graduating high school(approx $300). my cart was $50. my tools are around $30k. i never upgraded.

[@dexterlaci2266]

yeah...then you get to the point when you could fill....well, a really large box, like a Mr big with top boxes and lockers. That's only like 60k lol. one day I should do a video of just my roll cart. As you have said in your video make sure an upgrade is really an upgrade. if I bought your Revel box I would not gain anywhere near enough to justify the expense. The GS tech where I work has a harbor freight box, and he is filling it with name brand tools as he needs them, soon he may need to add the top box to it but the tools make the 💰, being able to find them prevents waste.

[@flatratemaster]

I have the Revel x and a Matco double bank filled along with my cart, plus HD tools in storage

[@coexist1018]

Spending $20,000 = a lifetime marriage to that box.

[@johngibson3594]

Always great advice, trading up just updates your investment.

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you! Very true!

[@kadenm9522]

I got my blue point for $70 from my neighbor and it’s nice

[@devoncoolman88]

Been saying the same thing as well for many years. Sure you can pile all your stuff in a small tool box but you can't find anything. Constantly wasting time trying to find something. Then resorting to borrowing it off me. Ive also seen the opposite many times. Big triple bank snap-on box. Nothing in it. Tool box doesn't fix the car. But it sure can help you make the job go faster and make your life easier.

[@flatratemaster]

If you can't fill a single bank tool box you should definitely not buy a triple;) Seen it to often as well.

[@peternajduk7841]

Buy locking cabinets used when starting out.

[@Anonymous..VQ3.5Lg35]

Lol glad i don’t have payments, but i will be buying a bigger box and maybe a locker or some racks to put kits on

[@michaelwright1602]

I have thought about this... I am not a mechanic, but if my son wanted to be a mechanic, I would take him down to Home Depot, buy a Husky for pennies on the dollar... Buy some angle iron and some HD casters and fab up a base so the thing rolls and does not bust in two. Peel the Husky sticker off it and go to eBay and buy a Snap-On label and stick it on. Who the hell will know? I bought a 66" chest for $499 at Home Depot, it looks nice, the only thing that gives it away is the name and the cheap casters. It sits against a wall, does not move, and holds my tools just fine. Just my .02 And I have to agree with your last comment, "A tool Box does NOT make you money, tools do". End of story.

[@zues2013]

Two options Buy the same budget box again and save $$$$$$$$$ you could buy 10-12 of these budget boxes for the price of even a icon box Or Buy used on craigs and save $$$$&& DO NOT buy off tool truck!!!

[@sterlingm.6936]

craigslist also is a good choice. i got a single bay tool box for less then 200 and more room then say a 4 or 5 drawer tool cart for the same price. there can be some nice carts and boxes found for cheap also some that include tools

[@flatratemaster]

You have to be careful on craigslist as many of those "deals" are on boxes that have not been paid off and they can and will repo them! Make sure you have proof it was paid in full before you hand over the cash

[@goinhot9133]

I can’t wait until I have my forever house and can finally get a Snap On epic to have in my garage ♥️

[@prevost8686]

Do you carry tool insurance on your stuff? A couple shops got wiped out here and the technicians lost everything. None of them carried tool insurance. The owner’s coverage isn’t going to cover everything because they didn’t have inventories of their stuff. Made me really think. Cases eat toolbox space. No need IMO for adding high dollar storage to house blow molded boxes. Some type of inexpensive locking cabinet will house that stuff without incurring huge debt.

[@hybridsleeper1306]

I’m a second year appreciate at a dealership shop. My tool box is a Matco 34 inch tool cart with 4 drawers . Recently one of my coworkers is selling his 7 years old Mac 50inch double bank box for about 2500 bucks. Should I take it? Or maybe go for a cheaper brand? Thanks.

[@gregblau8082]

Hybrid Sleeper I’m guessing you made a decision by now but I had the 66” triple bank mac & it was a great box. Only thing I didn’t like is the top 2 drawers under the full length are really shallow so it limits how you can organize tools.

[@brandona325]

Used is an option as well picked up an old snap on taco cart small top box and locker for a decent price. Planning to restore them

[@goinhot9133]

Step dad got a Macimizer MAC triple bank , in mint condition for 1700$

[@chrisjones6165]

wish I could find used that ain't listed as new condition, go to look at it and drawers don't slide right, has dents and scratches. hell one said like new looked like it was dropped out of a truck doing 55

[@flatratemaster]

Yeah, that is a problem with used, my Yellow box is a little beat, but works great just ugly!

[@johnb1121]

If only I new this before 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 I would have just got a snap on tool cart

[@kendellfontenot5916]

Hello I'm Kendell, I'm a young mechanic who's 3 years in to the industry, im mostly doin front end work rite now nd I'm working out a HF 5 drawer roll cart which is full to capacity. I know it's time to upgrade but I'm having a hard time trying to pick what size to go with. Any suggestions?

[@ballista7367]

If you havent upgraded yet DONT buy a snapon or Marco 6/7 drawer roll cart Homak makes a very similar one at a fraction of the cost. I bought one of ebay when ebay had a 25% of anything sale

[@kingkong8974]

My homak rolling cart with drawers and crap that can lock,, has nice bearings for the drawers.... Was almost identical to this 2thousand dollar one that was Mac... Think they were made by the same people... Mine was 400 new and bought it at a tool fair aty Auto tech school for 260 new without tax

[@kingkong8974]

As for a giant tool box? I'ma use my two file cabinets I turned into work bench tables with vices on them and drawers. Soon I will weld a locking mechanism for it... Free, free, free, and it'll be safe like a 10k snappy on

[@ranct1815]

What model tool cart do you have from Matco?

[@flatratemaster]

JSC 770, it is no longer a made, it has been replaced with the JSC 773

[@ranct1815]

Thank you

[@wendellgreenidge3362]

What is the real benefit of adding a hutch?????

[@JMKady76]

Gives a place to hang tools up, if you have a personal scan tool or computer at work it lets you have it out and plugged in ready to go but still locked up etc... And when it's closed up it keeps inconsiderate pricks from using your box as a work bench or lunch table.

[@Thebamerx98]

5 o clock drawer ;)

[@Oldcoinsandstuff1]

Just do what our ( trucking co. ) mechanic did. Spend $40,000 on box and tools within first 3 years!!! Lol.

[@_P0tat07_]

What happens if you die while making weekly tool payments?

[@flatratemaster]

Either your estate would have to pay your debt, if payments are not made, tools etc would be repossessed

[@jovanycorona7361]

bubba joe bob LMAO

[@ILYxIW]

Sad thing about the young lube techs wanting to look cool with a big boy box. All the lube techs at my job have 3 bay snap on or Matco boxes that aren’t even 25% filled... I work out of a 54in snap on classic series and a Mac roll cart and you couldn’t even fit an extra hair in either of my boxes.

[@LordRumple]

YOU FOOL! You gave up my dream storm trooper box.

[@PlaterpussLOL]

Just don't be the guy with the 6 foot tall tool box that has to borrow tools with 4 junk parts drawers and 2 empties.

[@MegaMustangkiller]

Atlas Mason had a guy like this in our shop. He only lasted two weeks because even though he had no certifications and no one had seen what he could do yet, he thought he should get diagnostic work before the two L1 certified techs that already worked there for years.

[@russelldesabre9530]

My question to you is why would you spend 1200-1500 dollars on a truck bought cart when you could spend 1100 on a 72 in harbor freight box and not have to upgrade 5 years down the road

[@bryansenulis2975]

Listen I'm old mechanic

[@bryansenulis2975]

Merica

[@johnb1121]

Husky $@cks😱😱😱😱

[@johnb1121]

Bigger always better never sell tools or tool boxes... With in your price point...

[@jpmechanics6122]

White and black in a body shop is bad cuz it shows literally all the dust

[@flatratemaster]

White seems to be real popular for body shops from what I hear.

[@TxJonathan]

Flatrate Master i want a white roll around but snap on only makes white in their epiq series which is 6k so i'll just go with arctic silver

[@bryansenulis2975]

Got the big bad boy matco like 6 as big as get.72 inch and cost at time 11k with 18% intrest...it all rusted and not lock right from day 1.. . Never buy there shit...trust me...I'm in texas not up north

[@niteninja0133]

Side lockers to me are pointless youre paying around 5k for a locker when you can add another box and have drawers

[@gordonfreeman5434]

But don't go out there and buy the cheapest crap you can find.

[@flatratemaster]

Very True with almost anything:)

[@bryansenulis2975]

Oct tools labeled as same....u real guys know...Cornell tools channel lock pliers and ir air tools re branded....dewalt =mack batteries powered shit..be smart....I'm real mechanic

[@moneymac2864]

Wish he would quit pointing at wavy his hand when he talks lmfao

[@flatratemaster]

Can't help it;)