Efficiency is key. In the trade industry, having the right processes, storage solutions, and streamlined setups makes all the difference to day-to-day operations and productivity. Not only will this optimise your workflows, but it will also ensure your team remains compliant while delivering top-notch services to your clients.
Whether you are a plumber, gas engineer, carpenter, or cleaner—or you manage a team of those who are—implementing storage solutions for each member of the team, the office, and vehicles will benefit you for years to come. It truly is a worthwhile investment.
As a leading trade business management software, it’s our mission to simplify tradies' daily lives. With that in mind, we have compiled a list of the best storage solutions all trades can use to transform their work.
Photo by New York Times
Tool Boxes & Tool Bags
Features
Portability: Boxes and bags are reliable for use on all job sites and are easy to transport.
Durability: Made from high-quality materials that can withstand harsh conditions, daily use and travel.
Organisation: With multiple compartments allowing you to keep tools organised for quick and easy access in demanding times and difficult conditions.
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Tool Cabinets & Chests
Features
Capacity: For those carrying larger tools to on-site locations, tool chests and cabinets provide more than sufficient space. They also come in handy for storing multiple small tools too.
Security: When on the road, having peace of mind that equipment is safe is beneficial; with chests and cabinets, you benefit from lockable drawers for greater security.
Mobility: Some of these storage solutions have wheels, allowing you to quickly, safely, and practically move them around workshops or on-site locations as needed.
Van Racking Systems
Features
Customisation: With van racks, you can tailor the layouts and organisation system to meet your van dimensions and tool storage requirements.
Accessibility: Utilising the walls of your vans allows you to easily reach tools without the need to hunt through piles on the floor. Gone are the days of unloading the entire van to find something right at the bottom of the tool pile.
Professionalism: When arriving on site, your clients may stick around. Opening an organised van offers a more professional appearance to your clients.
Photo by Van Fleet World
Containers & Storage Bins
Features
Stackability: As a tradie with multiple tools, you can’t take space for granted, so stacking storage bins and containers on top of each other allows you to travel with more tools and save more space in the van.
Durability: Most storage solutions of this kind are made of rigid plastic, which withstands wear and tear and daily use, making them perfect for multiple trades.
Labelling: When opting for this type of setup, implement a labelling system for quick and easy access to your tools; this will allow you to instantly identify the contents of each bin in the van or workshop when needed.
Photo by Van Fleet World
Wall Mounted Shelving & Storage
Features
Space Efficiency: Storage isn’t just available for the floor space, so why not work it up? Make the most of your storage capabilities and keep your work area tidy with all-mounted solutions.
Customisation: This type of storage can be tailored to meet your needs, with hooks, shelves, and small wall containers arranged in the desired way for quick and easy access.
Accessibility: No more time wasted rummaging through boxes and bags looking for the right thing—it’s all displayed in front of you. Labels can help here, too.
Modular Systems
Features
Adaptability: As your trade business grows, so will your services, and therefore, so will your tool collection. Modular storage allows you to adjust and expand the system as needed.
Organisation: With a variety of drawers, trays, and bins to choose from, you can organise your tool collection in a way that best suits you.
Efficiency: These modular tool storage solutions for trade businesses have been designed to make life on the road easier and improve safety, security, and access.
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Tool Belts & Tool Pouches
Features
Portability: This is perfect for electricians, gas engineers, and other tradespeople who require tools that move with them. Wearable storage keeps tools safe without the need to pop back into the van regularly.
Convenience: With immediate access to all of your most used smaller tools, you can save time and work more conveniently on the go.
Comfort: Many wearable storage solutions, including your belts and pouches, come with supportive padding and adjustable straps, making them comfortable for everyone and wearable for hours on end.
Storage solutions significantly improve your productivity as a tradie. Investing in quality storage options, such as belts, van shelving, cabinets, and boxes, will make working on-site or on the go more efficient and convenient. While these are all incredibly helpful storage options, finding the right set-up to meet your workshop, van, or needs is essential. Whether you’re just starting out in the trade industry or looking to overhaul your current setup, the storage mentioned above will create a solid, secure and long-term foundation for a more organised and streamlined work life.
Remember, the best storage solution is one that works for you and complements your workflow. Alongside storage, it’s also beneficial to streamline your operations and management. This is something investing in technology can help with. A trade business management software like Powered Now takes the guesswork and time out of admin tasks. With invoicing, job scheduling, certificates and HR sorted, you can focus on hitting the road with your newly organised tool setup.
Implement a tool and management system that allows you to work smarter, not harder.
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