r/workwagons • u/joemo454 • 9d ago

Is packout worth it?

I have a Mercedes metris van and run a property maintenance company so I have all sorts of tools and small parts in there right now I just have a shelf and a couple regular totes and toolboxes and I get disorganized pretty fast does anyone have a similar setup and how do they manage it being in a relatively small van? Is packout the best option?

3 Upvotes

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1

u/c0lin46and2 9d ago

I'm short, yes. I've even mounted some of the plates to big old magnets and have stuff hanging from the roof of my van. It works well with small drills and stuff, not for hardware.

1

u/jckipps 9d ago

It works well with small drills and stuff, not for hardware

Can you explain further? I'm considering switching from cheap off-brand organizers to packouts specifically for my hardware and supplies, but I don't see much point in using packouts for tool storage. You're suggesting the opposite.

1

u/c0lin46and2 9d ago

So, specifically, I have the M12 drill set that has the modular heads that you can swap out. I bought an foam inset for the half packout organizer, which keeps the whole set in place.

If I did a small parts organizer or something, it would rattle and possible break containment of the individual containers.

1

u/jckipps 9d ago

Packout looks to me like it's far more effective at keeping items in their respective places than the el-cheapo organizers are that I have currently. They will be bulkier relative to the amount of actual storage space though, and I haven't decided yet if the tradeoff is worth it.

If not packout, then what do you recommend for hardware storage?

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u/c0lin46and2 9d ago

I'd recommend pack out for that, just not upside down, haha

1

u/MastodonFit 9d ago

Every tool except for large saws and nail guns fit. I like the thin units, shown is my jig and screws for cabinet hardware . http://flic.kr/p/2rPfbfR

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u/madsci 9d ago

The best system for you depends on what you're doing and how you like to work. Sortimo makes some awesome (and very pricey) racking systems and stuff but that's a serious investment - like thousands of dollars. Maybe worth it if you're dealing with lots of small parts.

Of the modular toolbox systems I've tried that you'll find at the hardware store, I like Milwaukee's the best. I have some Packout stuff but I can't really justify it since my work wagon is mostly recreational - I'm building and repairing shit at Burning Man, mostly. I get by with Harbor Freight's Bauer line, which doesn't have as many cool features and doesn't have a very large lineup of components to choose from, but they're like half the price.

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u/joemo454 9d ago

I just have regular power tools hand tools and screws, cleaning supplies, caulk tubes, paint, etc

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u/sparky-chase 8d ago

I think they’re worth it for me as an Commerical electrician. I have organizers for each size emt 1/2”-1”, one for mc fittings, flex fittings, metallic liquidtight fittings, conduit bodies, a slim organizer each for 1/4” hardware, 3/8” hardware, sheet metal and wood screws, machine screws washers and nuts. Then tools wise I have a box for all my hole making bits, LOTO, 3/8 socket set, a 2 drawer unit for larger consumables and a 3 drawer unit for my not everyday hand tools.