Earlier this week, I posted about Ridgid’s new Pro tool boxes. Since my tool storage needs are always expanding and evolving, modular tool box setups tend to work really well for me. I already own a lot of Dewalt ToughSystem cases and Bosch L-Boxxes, and a smaller number of other brands’ modular tool boxes as well.
The new Ridgid tool boxes looked sturdy and well designed, so I went out and bought 6 of them at a nearby Home Depot. I came home with 1 cart, 2 of the medium tool boxes, 2 of the small organizer tool boxes, and 1 of the “tube” tool boxes. The Tube tool box doesn’t stack with the others, and so I’ll review it separately.
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Since I plan to put these tool boxes to immediate use, I figured I should take a couple of photos now while they’re clean, empty, and all in one place. Although, from what I’ve seen thus far, my Ridgid Pro tool boxes will likely grow in numbers in the next couple of months.
All of these boxes are 22″ long. Dewalt’s ToughSystem tool boxes seem longer, but they’re actually a little shorter, with 21″ lengths. Unless I’m mistaken, that means these new Ridgid Pro boxes are the most spacious modular tool boxes on the market right now.
Pricing
I normally talk about pricing at the end of a post or review, but since this one’s extremely lengthy with over 40 photos, there’s no reason not to talk about this first.
There are three sizes – a small organizer tool box, a medium sized tool box, and a large tool box cart. Prices for these are $30, $40, and $60, respectively. A complete set that includes one of each will set you back about $130, but each of the tool boxes will work well individually as standalone tool storage products.
Check Availability via Home Depot
Ridgid Pro Tool Box Common Features
Strength and Durability
It’s too soon to tell how well these Ridgid tool boxes will hold up with time, but they certainly seem to be well built.
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Each of the boxes have thick walls and reinforced construction elements, allowing them to pass the sidewall “flex test” with ease. When fully loaded with tools, they don’t bulge out or twist either, at least not from what I’m seeing.
Stacking
There are feet at the bottom of the two smaller tool boxes that allow the boxes to stack very neatly on top of each other.
Alignment is relatively quick and easy. Ridgid Pro tool boxes stack up about as quick as Dewalt ToughSystem cases, and appreciable quicker than fully loaded Bosch L-Boxx cases.
Lid Stopper
One of the shared features I really like is the “lid stopper” that does exactly what you think it does.
The lid stopper prevents the lid from moving too far past 90°. This keeps the lid propped open, but greatly reduces the likelihood that an empty or lightly loaded tool box will tip over backwards.
I was worried that this feature would increase the likelihood of a lid slamming closed on my fingers, but that hasn’t happened yet, and it doesn’t look like it will happen.
Side Handles and Connectors
Pivoting metal locking connectors at the sides of each box serves two purposes. First, this is how stacked boxes are connected together for transport or more secure storage.
The side latches flip up and down with ease.
When it’s not being used, the side connector folds down and clips into a stowed position. This ensures that it won’t flop back and forth unintentionally.
I own or have tested Dewalt ToughSystem cases, Bosch L-Boxxes, Dewalt T-Stak boxes, and both kinds of Festool Systainers.
Aside from the Festool T-Loc Systainers, which have a swiveling front-mounted connector, the Ridgid Pro tool boxes are the fastest to connect and lock together. They are also the fastest when it comes to unlocking and separating tool boxes.
When just talking about stacking tool boxes that connect at their sides, there’s simply nothing faster.
Second, these can be used as side handles when you really need to get two hands to move a box around. I really didn’t think these could be side handles, as they’re quite small in diameter, and assumed that the rubber grip material served another purpose. But, they’re actually great side handles.
The side handles are comfortable to grip, not to mention strong and secure-feeling. This is important because the side handles are the only way to carry the organizer upright, otherwise you have to use the sole carrying handle at the front.
Metal Latches
The latches are metal, but they don’t latch onto metal parts.
The ribbed latch area seems strengthened, but the ribs could also just be a design feature. Either way, it doesn’t look like the lock will wear into the plastic and loosen up over time.
Maybe I’m seeing a benefit that doesn’t really exist, but the orange Ridgid-branded piece that bridges the sides of each latch seems to make it easier to get the box closed and ready to move. The way the orange latch bridge is angled, it hits the tool box first, preventing the metal loop from resting flat against the side of the tool box. This makes it easier to find and grab with gloved or bare hands.
I hope you could see now why this review required so many images. There are simply too many minor but nevertheless impactful features to point out.
Padlock loops poke through each of the latches, should you want or need them.
The latches on the sides of the large tool box cart are larger than on the other boxes, making them even easier to open and close.
Water and Dust Seals
You’ll be seeing the rubbery seals in several of the following photos, but it’s still worth a mention. The thick seal should greatly reduce the possibility of getting dust, moisture, or other contaminants inside your closed tool boxes.
Ridgid Pro Small Organizer Tool Box
The one downside about the organizer tool box is how it can only be carried vertically. I suppose that the absence of a top handle leaves more space for tools and supplies, but top handles are a convenience every other brand offers on their smallest tool boxes.
The first time you open the organizer tool box up, you’re faced with three compartments.
I initially thought that the partitions were built-in and permanent, but they’re not – they’re simply thick dividers. Each of the end sections has room for three included parts bins. You can remove the bins or dividers as you please to best configure the storage compartment for your needs.
I removed the bins in one of my Ridgid Pro organizer tool boxes, but kept the dividers in place. This allows me to separate and hold a good amount of hand tools, than if I was just with the tiny center section. I could always add one or two bins back to the box, but I probably won’t.
Despite my minor gripe about there not being a top handle, I really like the size and shape of the front handle. Plus, the mounting points are multi-pronged and extra-thick. When carrying a loaded tool box, there’s no significant flexure or signs of potential weakness in the handle.
The large finger and hand groove makes it easier to open the lid. It’s minor touches like this that are really helping me to like the new Ridgid Pro storage lineup.
Another nice touch is the inner lid panel, which have grooves that align with the removable bins to remove spillage during transport.
I wouldn’t trust the inner lid to prevent things like #2 washers from travelling outside their bins, but it seems like a great built-in lid solution for most construction supplies and materials.
There are a couple of clips around the inside of the box, which seem to hold the moves-if-you-touch-it inner lid. I thought that this means the inner lid is removable for users who want a little more space and who don’t make use of the anti-spillage bin and build-in lid design, but I couldn’t figure out a way to get the inner lid past their retaining clips.
Price: $30
Buy Now(via Home Depot)
Ridgid Pro Medium Tool Box
I expect a lot from a $40 tool box, and the Ridgid Pro delivers. Even loaded up with tools, it’s quote comfortable to carry. Although I am much enamored with Dewalt’s large ToughSystem case, I like that the Ridgid Pro is about $14 cheaper. These boxes are also easier to connect together than Dewalt’s, which is a big plus.
The medium tool box shares a lot of the same construction elements and design features as the smaller organizer box, such as the lid-opening notch.
It’s the same size as two organizer tool boxes stacked and connected together.
The inside of the box is fairly Spartan, which is a good thing. There’s a ~2/3 width hand tray with no built-in partitions or dividers.
The sidewalls aren’t too cluttered with structural ribs or hand tray supports, maximizing the space that be used for tools and gear.
This box is a useful size, and seems to be worth its full $40 price. As with the other Ridgid Pro tool boxes, the medium model feels strong and sturdy. Its lid is built with extra reinforcements that boost its weight capacity rating from 25 lbs to 50 lbs.
Price: $40
Buy Now(via Home Depot)
Ridgid Pro Gear Cart
The Ridgid Pro Gear Cart is a very nice tool box, either as part of the system or when used separately. Since it’s both a large tool box and cart component that works with the other tool box sizes, the design is a little different.
Since the cart is built with large all-terrain wheels that are mounted at the sides of the tool box, it doesn’t take away too much from the storage volume, and the wider wheel base also increases rolling stability.
The wheel treads aren’t made from soft rubber, but they’re not made from slick hard plastic either. They’re made from a semi-hard type of plastic. Ridgid calls them all-terrain wheels, but I would describe them more as suitable for most terrain. There’s also not a lot of ground-to-tool box clearance to comfortably roll this over very rocky or uneven terrain.
When you undo both side latches, the entire lid lifts away. There’s no obvious way to tether the lid to the tool box, but it’s large enough that you’re unlikely to misplace it. If need be, you could tie some paracord or rope between the alignment loops, which mate with the notches between the handle uprights, and the handle.
The cart comes with a removable hand tool organizer that hugs the inner contours of the rear.
With the accessory removed, you can see that the wheels and handle don’t really take up too much of the storage cart’s storage space.
As with the other tool box sizes, you get a nice integrated dust and water seal.
The seal material is pretty flexible and rubbery, which should make for a good connection.
A metal locking bar can be stored in the lid of the cart.
The locking bar slides through notches built into the left sides of all Ridgid Pro tool boxes. Multiple hole locations allow you to lock things down regardless of which tool boxes you have stacked on top of the cart.
The locking bar can be used with one medium tool box and one organizer, or multiple organizers.
One thing to note is that the gear cart is a couple of inches wider than the other two Ridgid Pro tool box sizes. This two smaller boxes are 13.7″ wide, and the cart is 18.3″ wide. This extra width, combined with the extra height, gives the cart tremendous storage capacity. This helps to balance the small amount of space given up to accommodate the built-in wheels and handle.
The handle is made from telescoping steel tubing, and feels like it could handle some rough use.
With one medium tool box and an organizer stacked on top of the cart, there is enough clearance to wrap your hand comfortably around the handle.
I walked out of Home Depot with an additional medium tool box and organizer stacked on top, and the handle was accessible, but only with a non-wrapping underhand grip. This means that you’re pretty much limited as to how many boxes can be rolled around using a single gear cart.
What I like about the handle is that it collapses so neatly.
I will probably order one or two of these gear carts, but not necessarily for use as part of Ridgid Pro tool box stacks. The gear cart is sturdy and spacious enough on its own that it makes for a versatile rolling tool box that can be used by itself.
Price: $60
Buy Now(via Home Depot)
Dimensions
Gear Organizer: 22.2″ long x 13.7″ wide x 6.5″ tall, 3.8 gallon storage volume
Tool Box: 22.2″ long x 13.7″ wide x 12.4″ tall, 9.5 gallon storage volume
Mobile Gear Cart: 22.2″ long x 18.3″ wide x 18.9″ tall, 14.8 gallon storage volume
Manufacturing Details
These tool boxes are made in Israel.
According to the UPC code, it seems that these are made for Ridgid and Home Depot by Keter. Thanks Fred for deciphering the number code! However, Keter doesn’t seem to offer anything similar in their product catalog, indicating this could be an exclusive Ridgid design.
Overall
If you can’t already tell, I’m really impressed with the new Ridgid Pro tool boxes. It’s too soon to discuss their long-term durability, but they are definitely, strong, sturdy, and exceptionally user friendly.
It may be a little silly to describe these boxes as user friendly, but they are. It seems as though every single minute detail was well thought and planned out.
What really sold me on the Ridgid Pro system, and what convinced me to buy a couple of extra boxes instead of just one of each, is how easy it is to connect and disconnect multiple tool boxes from each other. I’ve used all types of modular and connectable tool boxes, and find the Ridgid Pro boxes to be easiest and quickest to stack and interlock.
The tool boxes are made from some kind of impact-resistant resin. There is minimal flex, with strength and sturdiness rivaling even Dewalt’s ToughSystem offerings. I wouldn’t quite compare Ridgid Pro build quality with Pelican cases, but they’re leaps and bounds better than the thin plastic found in lesser non-modular individual plastic tool boxes.
One thing I don’t quite like is the California Proposition 65 this product and dust created by its use may contain chemicals, including lead, known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm and wash your hands after handling warnings. There might be softeners in the hand grips and maybe Ridgid didn’t feel like evaluating the risk potential.
Overall, these tool boxes are great tool organizers and storage products. I’ve loaded half of them up already with hand tools, cordless power tools, and a lone corded drill. When loaded up, the tool boxes are quite manageable.
One benefit of the Ridgid Pro system, compared to others, is how the large tool box is also the gear cart. This not only saves the expense of having to buy a separate cart or dolly, but it allows for simpler stack-and-go transport. There are less components that you have to connect and keep track of.
These boxes will be used to ferry tools to and from storage, my workspace, and off-site testing and work locations. After loading them up and moving them around a couple times already, I think they’ll do quite well with professional users in rough and demanding usage environments.
Buy Now(via Home Depot)
Compare(Dewalt ToughSystem via Amazon)
Compare(Bosch L-Boxx via Amazon)
Compare(Dewalt T-Stak via Amazon)
Compare(Festool Systainers via Amazon)
mnoswad1
Great write up Stu, I too, am very impressed with these boxes, but have yet to buy them. i’ll get some soon, as i hope this is not a limited product offering as Ridgid is known to do. Can you do a follow up review soon as you load up the boxes so we all can see how things fit inside etc.
Stuart
Thanks!
I’ll try to, but keep in mind that I tend to use tool boxes differently than the target audience. Not including the new Ridgid boxes, I have over 100 L-Boxxes and ToughSystem cases. Some were media samples, most were purchased. With a small workspace, I started spending more time working around my tools than with them, and that’s not good.
I keep planning do a rundown of how I use my L-Boxxes and ToughSystem cases. I’ll try my best to get the ball rolling on this soon.
We plan to move in a couple of months, and so I plan to move ALL my tools off-site, at least those that I might not need in a moment’s notice.
What I really like is that these boxes are close to ToughSystem quality, yet closer to T-Stak pricing, and friendlier to use than both.
Jimmy
I just purchased the cart and two medium boxes which is what i need to carry all of my construction tools from battery tools to power tools and its able to handle all that weight with ease. Absolutly love it.
Drew
I saw these in the store and was almost sold until I realized the lid to the cart box had to be removed and wasn’t hinged. That really turned me off for some reason. I love Keter products but my impression is that their customer service is non-existent so the Ridgid branding is a definite plus.
Stuart
These have a “Full Lifetime Warranty,” with the ultra-fine print saying “against material defects and workmanship.”
I too have experienced that Keter doesn’t like to talk to consumers too much. A pro and con about Keter is that you can often find rebranded products a lot easier than Keter-branded ones.
Victor
I actually prefer that the lid is completely removable on the larger box. I wish that was the case with all of the boxes. It would eliminate one step. Right now to open up the small or medium box, if either of them are in the middle position (sandwiched between two tool boxes), you have to separate the boxes form each other first, then release/open the latches to the lid. I don’t do this when needing to access anything in the bottom/wheeled tool box. I simply undo the latches to the lid of the large tool box, then simply lift the top cases up and off to the side with the large tool box lid still attached to the bottom of the top tool boxes. It’s that simple.
Side note: Being afraid of loosing the lid is kind of a funny comment to me. How could someone loose such a large lid? Wouldn’t you be more concerned with losing the smaller valuable tools?
I’ve only had this tool box for a very short time, but love it already.
Richard
Absolutely love the fact that the removable “unattached” lid of the cart box CAN be left attached to the medium case stacked above it! For this reason I only bought the two. I like to keep everything right. Open top get what I need and close. Lift medium (leaving bottom lid attached to medium, grab what I need and lower it back down. Even sitting the medium case down with the lid attached under it, raises it up making it even more accessible and useful as a step or seat. No chance of losing it, and no reason to unattach it – unless using the cart solo. Love having both together. Will probably get the small case but only attach it when transporting or not in use.
planet.rocks
Just so you are aware…you can still open the middle or the top box when “sandwiched” between the top and bottom. The only one you can not open when they are all attached is the bottom. I love this setup very much and recommend it to everyone that ask me about it. If the bottom box had a slide out drawer then the whole system could be accessed without having to dismantle anything. I recommend this set up to anyone looking for a durable badass mobile tookm
Paul
https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-Steel-Adjustable-Rolling-Miter-Saw-Stand/1000088949 I. Too just purchased them. I looked at three products and settled on these for a number of reasons. As for a lid getting lost we all. Have had tools walk off a job site. It’s sad but happens. ?
Ronald Allen
How does someone loose the lid, well I found one on the side of the road today. I guess it was not latched.
Pete
They need a top handle and a drawer unit. Also a rolling flat cart and the system would be awesome.
Still looking at the dewalt T-stak system, cant decide if the investment will be worth it.
Stuart
I don’t know about a drawer unit. In theory, I love Dewalt’s drawer T-Stak and ToughSystem drawer units. In practice, the plastic sags and sometimes binds. It doesn’t just happen when the drawers are loaded, but the weight of tool boxes stacked on top can cause this to happen.
Fred
Apples to apples, if you took the smallest Ridgid box vs the smallest Toughsystem box, took out all the bins, and intended to put one or a few power tools in it and carry it briefcase style; which would be your choice?
Same question with the mid sized box.
How many small or mid sized boxes can you get in one ‘stack’ ie where you can still get to the handle and move them around?
matt
totally right Fred.. I have the small tough box from dewalt. and almost never use the top handle.. If it was not there I might have complained but in use I dont ever use it… always carry brief case style not even comfortable the other way.. I do sometimes use it for lifting in and out of the truck but not having it then would be a non issue..
I would actually prefer the added inside space…
Don’t know if I am a huge fan of the integrated wheels on bottom box. I usually strongly dislike those. You lose space on the inside to get low cost crappy wheels.. I would just assume use a quality hand truck but that might just be Me… Other then that It looks like a really solid system at a good price point..
Bill K
From these pictures it appears these boxes are molded with a resin with short glass fibers which make them much stronger/stiffer than the Bosch boxes…… which is also likely to fail in a more brittle, than ductile mode.
Farid
Sorry I have to ask, but are any of the storage systems actually made in the US? Are the Bosch ones made in Germany? If anyone has a quick answer, please let me know.
Thank you for the great review, Stuart.
Stuart
Short answer: No.
Long answer:
I believe that L-Boxxes and Systainers are made in Germany. Sortimo and Tanos are based there.
Dewalt ToughSystem cases and these Ridgid boxes are made in Israel. I haven’t checked recently, but I’m pretty sure the Dewalt T-Stak boxes are also made in Israel. Stanley’s better tool boxes and organizers, such as their 25-compartment organizer, are made in Israel as well.
Stanley Black & Decker’s storage division, formerly known as ZAG Industries, is based in Israel, as is Keter.
There are plenty of USA brands, such as Flambeau that manufacturer plastic tool boxes in the USA. Other USA brands have the ability to enter the modular tool storage market, but haven’t done so.
Jason
I just ordered a set of these online from Home Depot yesterday. I’m heading to the store Saturday to pick them up and start organizing my tools better. I hate canvas bags, but I was waiting and hoping to see if Milwaukee was going to do a Modular storage solution. They came up with the cool tool box and tool bucket, but that’s not what I wanted. The other good thing about the Ridgid boxes is they are priced right compared to the other options, and they build quality is still good.
Jeff
Thanks for the review. I use a bucket with a tool skirt and lid, and one of the benefits is the bucket can double as an impromptu seat or stool. Would you think the wheeled tool box could withstand that sort of use? Thanks.
Stuart
Possibly, but it might not be perfectly safe. Milwaukee’s new bucket-sized box is designed to double as a seat, and its construction isn’t as robust as the Ridgid’s.
You definitely cannot stand on the box, but sitting might be okay. Probably still not recommended by the manufacturer.
BikerDad
Contico makes a fantastic “stool box” (my name for it, as in “step stool”), Model 9402. Stack-On makes one very similar, which you can find at Lowes. They are specifically designed for standing and sitting on the box. The interior volume seems to be about the same as a medium modular box. Not as big as the new Milwaukee.
KL
I too just ordered these online today for what is supposed to be store pickup today. I first called my HD knowing of their difficulties and incompetencies with new products, and was informed that the product is still in freight and will be brought out by a crew tomorrow and I could then get it the next day. When asked if she could promise me they’d even be on the floor by that date, she said no. However the website shows them in stock and available for store pickup “TODAY.” I realized this after I hung up the phone in frustration. I’m sure there will be a delay of several days while my HD attempts to extract their craniums from dark recesses. We’ll see.
Stuart
Try heading into your store and seeing what they can do for you. I’ve always had great experiences with Home Depot associates going to lengths to find in-stock tools that were overhead and still in shipping boxes.
Chris
I just picked up one of the small gear boxes. Is it supposed to have the lid stopper like the others? Mine doesnt, not sure if it should be there and isnt or if it just shouldnt be there.
The store had 2 of them but I had someone else pick it up for me so they didnt know better.
Thanks.
-Chris
Stuart
I just checked, and yes, the small boxes are supposed to have the lid stopper.
Donnie
The liner in the lid does come out. Pop out the bottom and the side clips, the top has a long tab that goes up into a slot. I put foam in mine and made it into my new laptop case. I could buy 5 of these for what we paid for one of our pelican laptop cases!
I went back and bought three more. Plan on replacing my 12 year old platt tool case with the organizer and the lid liner removed. My platt case was an inch deeper but 2″ narrower. So my pallets are going to be modified.
Thanks for the detailed review. It will be interesting to see how these hold up over time.
Stuart
Thanks! I’ll see if I can pop the lid out of my smaller Ridgid boxes. I guess that when I tried I just wasn’t forceful enough.
John
These Rigid tool boxes are the best system that I have seen so far. I picked up all 3 boxes. A contractor can have all the standard power tools you need on the jobsite stuffed in these units. The bottom cart is plenty deep & wide enough for a 71/4 inch circular saw, extension cord and even a tool belt. The middle box is plenty big enough for 2 corded drills and several cases of drill bits & screwdriver bits. The top box can be used for small parts with the six plastic bins it comes with ,but if you remove all of them and the 2 dividers the box is capable of holding several cordless tool batteries and a charger or a oscillating tool with accessories. Great tool boxes !
aaron evans
how would you say the wheels have been holding up? from my experience with s r t ups like this, they tend to break.
Stuart
They’re holding up well, but I also don’t use the cart on a daily basis or over really rough and rocky terrain.
Kim Baker
I bought the small organizer toolbox as a “back of my car toolbox” as it would not in theory, tip over and I could place groceries on top of it easily. I removed one of the dividers and 3 of the 6 orange boxes and now have ample room for my large channel locks, hammer and pipe wrench. This box IS well thought out in every respect. After looking at the Dewalt tough system and owning many pelican cases….I was very pleased to see the price of this at my local Home Depot…..29+change……A bargain folks, to be sure………Thank you for the write up above and I will be purchasing more of this interlocking type system for my purposes…..
Joseph
Stuart, do you know if the panel on the lid of the organizer is removable? It’s function seems to be to provide a sealed closure for the bins, but it also seems to waste some space, especially if you don’t plan on using the bins.
jason. W
I’m gonna be picking up the three piece set here soon. I’m hoping my local HD has them so I can see them first hand before ordering.
jason. W
I picked them up today and already have them loaded. They hold all my tools, which I’m alittle surprised by.
I’m looking forward to how these guys hold up in the field.
Mark
I have had several of the rolling canvas bags and was literally going to order the DeWalt ToughSystem when I was in Home Depot last night. I took a quick turn down the aisle for the tool storage items for a very small plastic parts case. The Home Depot guy was stocking the shelf with the Ridgid system being addressed above. I drug the cart and the two different top boxes out into the aisle and assembled them and was immediately sold. They seemed tough enough, the latches worked simply and easily…..something I didn’t find with one of the DeWalt systems I fiddled with in the store.
Long story short, I walked out the door (ok paid first) with the rolling gear box and the smaller parts box. I transferred my 20v stuff to the gear box with room to spare. Made up and filled the parts box and will go back today for another parts box.
In my opinion from having and trying several systems to move tools around without either breaking your back or making a hundreds trips back and forth I think I have stumbled onto a good solution. Based on what I have seen so far, the Ridgid system is just that….ridged. I loaded up the boxes, connected the two and stacked (3) Stanley parts boxes on top, strapped a bungy over the Stanleys with plenty of places to hook and went for a walk! It feels strong and secure with what I would estimate as something in the 100 lb. range, combined total. The handle is far superior to others of this type that I have come across.
Bottom line…..it sure feels like a substantial enough system to last. Time will tell, I am impressed so far.
Don White
went to home depot looked at the Dewalt system and the Ridgid to me the Dewalt did not compare and I’m a Dewalt guy. So I did the whole system plus a extra small top box to be able to change out… Can’t wait to fill it with tools. was worried about the dolly handles holding the weight when full to pull box back. Talked to the home depot sales rep he said full life time warranty. Will see how it holds up and if they stand by it.
Chelsie K.
Has anyone checked these on a flight yet? I transport my tools regularly via plane, and haven’t found a system both compact and durable enough? When I saw these in HD today my heart skipped a beat, but the wheels and telescoping handle are making me waiver. Wheels removable at all? Does the handle on the cart tuck away flush with the lid?
Stuart
The Ridgid cases are tough, but airline tough? I don’t know.
If I had to fly with my tools, I would go with my pelican tool chest https://toolguyd.com/pelican-0450-mobile-tool-chest/ , a different pelican case, or a mil spec attache-style case for mainly hand tools.
Sonn Solo
Has anyone been able to register these for the lifetime warranty?
Ron
I own this system and like it. I am just trying to figure out a way to connect and carry a 24″ level with the system. I usually just use the base and the smaller divider box together and leave the mid size box in my van. Any suggestions on how to connect a level to this securely?
Benjamin
I’m in Canada and these tool boxes are not available. I made a special trip to the U.S. just to buy this system. Let me say “I do not regret it!”.
Almost all of my tools are either Ridgid or AEG and having this system not only matches my tools but it’s conveinent and practical as well. I have 3 renovation crews and each crew has their own brand of tools organized in their assigned work vans. Each crew is responsible for their own tools and by having a branded tool box system that matches the brand of tool, it makes keeping things organized much easier. In comparison to the dewalt tough system (which we have) I see no real benefit of either (except maybe the detachable trolly) which we never use for any other purpose but to haul the stackable units.
I’m very satisfied with my purchase, my only regret is I should have purchased another of the smaller sections. It would have come in handy.
Cheers.
Bill
I saw these at HD today and they look great. I compared them to the Dewalts right next to them on the shelf.
Have any owners had any issues with them? Do they stand up to getting knocked about in the back of a truck? Does the stacked box set stay together when they tip over? (Not really imagining the Samsonite luggage commercials with the gorilla, but I’m wondering about the durability)
Matt
Love the write-up, love the pictures.
Going into full detail like you always do is top notch.
The only thing I don’t like about the review is that you did not provide load-out pictures.
I think you should show a couple drills in the small size, or fully load the large(Just simple examples).
Thank you for the great review! Post some follow-up images if you can!
Stuart
Thanks! At the time, I was so excited about the kick-ass new boxes that I didn’t think to show what they looked like after I threw some tools in. I’ll try to snap some pics when I have a chance, although I’m hesitant as a few pics always lead to many “will it fit a…” requests. The roller and large box are in use at storage since they’re loaded with heavier and less used corded tools, and my smaller ones travel more.
Also, I’ve been promising pics of some of my L-Boxxes for a while now. I’ll have to snap some pics of those first.
Simon
Anyone know if the set will be available in Canada? Home Depot dosen’t have them yet.
Thanks!
Ryan
Stuart, Thank you for the robust review of this Ridgid tool storage system. I went out and bought a few boxes not long before reading this and felt proud of my purchase after I read through it.
I would like to suggest an addition to your review however: In many other forums and reviews I’ve noticed complaints about almost all stacking storage systems in general that you have to un-stack the units to open them. With the Ridgid system I instinctively open and close the smaller cases that are lower in the stack without removing them from the stack. I literally just push in the handle and while keeping the boxes coupled to eachother, I unlatch the lid of the box i want to get into and all the others above tilt with the lid allowing me access. I know it sounds a tad complicated as I described it but it’s fairly simple.
My point in suggesting this to you, is that your review has a lot of online traction and including such a detail can be a make or break decision point for some buyers and is just a a useful piece of information about the capability of the product.
Again, thanks for such a really good review
mike aka Fazzman
This Ridgid cart set is awesome,I just got mine delivered this week.
Peter Roeseler
I was so impressed with these boxes when I saw them, I bought 2 of the small top boxes and a medium box to use as paniers on my motorcycle. Like you said, they are almost like Pelican boxes. Boxes for the bike can run upward of $800 a set, with some added bracing around the mounting, we’ll see how they hold up. I think they’ll do well. The inner panel in the small box removes easily with a thin screwdriver stuck in where you see the clips, I pulled mine out for the extra space. I can’t get a picture added on here to show you. Thanks for the great review,
Victor
Nice review. Why don’t they ship to Nigeria? Dyu know where I could order one from with free shipping?
Victor
I’m talking abt d mobile gear cart
Timothy p Hannagan
I am a High voltage repair tech / welder
as soon as I took a good look at the Ridgid pro system I knew it was far superior to the Dewalt tough boxes , I have had and used numerous tool boxes & storage systems over my 25 plus years of experience , I spend a lot of time moving from job site to job site , vehicle to vehicle
this system is by far the most versatile system I have found to date ,
I have purchased 15 complete stacks and better than 10 mid boxes , finally a unified storage system. I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS SYSTEM HANDS DOWN .
terry
keter does make it?
http://www.keter.com/products/tool-storage-system
Stuart
Yes. We discussed this here at:
https://toolguyd.com/keter-professional-tool-boxes-also-from-ridgid/
Tristan Wand
Great, in-depth review. I’ve been on the hunt for a stacking modular system for awhile now after my Stanley rolling workstation died (a cheap, disappointing product that didn’t last me more than about a year). I’ve considered both DeWalt systems and the Bosch LBoxx (I’m a Bosch guy) — as a finish carpenter the Bosch isn’t versatile enough for the wide array of hand and power tools I lug around on a daily basis, and the DeWalt’s would be cost prohibitive if I got the set up best suited for my purposes. This seems like the perfect solution for me and I think I’m gonna give it a go after my next paycheck.
Reviewer mentioned he was able to lock together the rolling gear cart, two medium boxes and the small parts organizer and still be able to wheel it around with an albeit limited grip. Am I understanding that correctly — that you can lock together all the above and still manage to wheel it around as long as I’m okay without a full wrapping grip? Because that sounds about like my ideal configuration. Though I saw on the HD website Rigid also makes a 22″ open milk-crate like “Pro Box” for loose gear items (extension cords, bungees, rope and the like)…I need to calculate how the system would work out with different arrangements/components. And the one answer I’m not finding on the specs on the HD website or in this review is exactly how long is the telescoping handle beyond the 18.31″ assembled height of the box itself. Sorry if this was answered and I somehow missed it. Basically, I want to know how many available inches do I have, that I can stack onto while still getting a reasonably secure grip around the handle. If anyone who’s used this product for awhile and really run it through the motions I would appreciate your take. Like I said I am a carpenter and on the go constantly.
Thanks!
Stuart
My gear cart isn’t immediately available, and so I’m sorry I can’t measure the length of the handle for you right now.
The mentioned configuration is doable, but might be a little awkward to maneuver due to the reduced grip.
I think that a gear cart + 1 large box + 1 small box is what the designers saw as an ideal configuration for transport purposes. Anything more and you’ll see reduced ergonomics. Although you could stack boxes above the height of the handle, moving everything around is going to be made harder.
Adding another small box might still affect the grip of the handle – I’m going by my photo above, not memory – and another large box or open organizer will definitely do so.
If you can make it to a Home Depot, there should be enough units on the sales floor to create and test out a tall stack.
Jordan
The inner lid is removable. We took ours out to increase the interior space
kason
My Ridgid storage cart didnt come with the removable hand tool insert. i have noticed the slots that looked like there was some type of insert for organizing, although i was unable to find any such inserts. The crates also have similar slots.
Do you know where or what to search for to find the inserts or even make some type that would work?
Stuart
Sorry, I have no idea.
Silly question, but did you check with your local HD to see if they had one with inserts? If you did check, or ordered online, I’m out of ideas.
You could potentially contact Keter USA, but good luck, I don’t even have a contact there.
Travis
Keter is easy to contact with a quick Google search. I have called many times and ordered pieces and clamps from them for my folding tables. They are easy to deal with and very polite.
Joe
Hi, just curious as to what the rated weight capacity of the wheels on the cart are…I notice the combined rated weight capacity of the cart, medium box and small box comes out to 125lbs. But can’t find what the wheels are rated for. Maybe a silly question but I’ve hot a habit of packing lots into my boxes and these are large.
Thanks.
elix
I would like to use the small and medium sizes to transport of measurement devices. Pleas could you measure the usable interior space dimmensions? Thanks a lot : ))
elix
The lid looks out as too weak for standing or sitting up. The small foots on the bottom would be incompatible with very often occured floor industrial grids. I will preffer not so much broken surface on sides due to more easily decontamination. But it looks as very well done design and the interior looks much more spacely then the DeWalt TougSystem. I will stay at ToughSystem now and will wait for next improved version : ))
elix
The TougSystem is specified for IP65 but if I push on it’s closed lid more fastly, the air hiss along its gasket (looks like only at corners at latch side and I will try to fix it). I suppose that at the PRO TOOL BOX it will be wery similar so I recomend to give more attention to this. IP67 could be a real goal (we use boxes with this IP from another manufacturer). Yet one thing. A proffesional usually don’t buy a purly specified (and identified) product. So it has to be specified rated box load, maximum load per lid, preferably also the inner dimmensions.
Marshall
“this product and dust created by its use may contain chemicals, including lead, known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects”!!
Why the hell do these companies have to make a great designed product with dangerous chemicals? This is probably why they are not sold in Europe. I can’t imagine I can feel good about having these sitting in a hot van with the heat breaking them down (even microscopically) or having them off gas in the van while I am breathing that air.
I really like this design and it would be perfect for my needs, but I would not wash my hands every time I touch the case so I am going to have to pass. I am really bummed out. If there is anyone else, who feels the same way, and has found a healthier alternative…please let me know or post here (if that’s okay). Thanks for a great review!
Mike
You do realize there are almost ZERO products that don’t carry the California label? That hot van these boxes aren’t sitting in is offgassing thousands of times more harmful vapors than these boxes ever could.
As long as you don’t live in California any of the products with the label are perfectly safe. Only inside the state do they become hazardous.
chris
asbestos is listed on that list and many more that cause cancer, even outside of california…..
Dennis Smith
The wheels are not that durable for actual on site work
Jim Shropshire
Can the Pro Organizer be purchased from any other company besides Home Depot?
I work for the U.S. Post Office as a mechanic and they will not buy this product from Home Depot.
If the tool box was available from, say, Grainger, MSC, or an electrical supply company, then OK, just not Home Depot
Stuart
Not that I know of, but Keter makes these for Ridgid. I couldn’t find the Keter units anywhere, but maybe you’ll have better luck.
https://toolguyd.com/keter-professional-tool-boxes-also-from-ridgid/
Keter dealers might be able to special order one for you, but I don’t think that the distributors you mentioned carry Keter products.
The dealers you mentioned do carry Dewalt ToughSystem products, which aren’t quite the same, but might be a good Plan B.
Dan Farley
I’m a construction old timer and have had more tool boxes than I care to count. From Bucket Buddies to Craftsman to Power Kraft and I have to say these are built the best. I’ve purchased the 3 plus the basket which will fit on top of the three stacked.
My only complaint is the length of the handle when your pulling or pushing the tool boxes. I’m 6’2″+ and it’s a little short and I find myself bending when I’m pulling the toolboxes. Small issue and usually isn’t far but so far (about a year) these are my favorite boxes without a doubt. On top of being capable of carrying a good deal of tools, it’s a nice professional looking and neat appearing box set up when viewed by clients.
I’ve recommended them numerous times and will say they’re worth it, pull the trigger and get them.
taras
How are the wheels holding up after a year? After looking at the system, they seem to be the only weak link, and likely the first to fail. Are the wheels replaceable?
Jeff
Just wanted to add that the inner liner on the lid of the small box is removeable, and once removed opens up a good amount of space. I popped it out with a screwdriver, it did damage the inner lid a bit, but does not damage the actual lid of the box. A nice modification if you are not using the small parts bins.
Gary Dennis
I purchased two of the 22″ Gear Organizer Tool Box. Where can I buy additional bins. I need a dozen of them. Thanks
Gary Dennis
Jameson
It doesn’t look like it’s made to pop in and out but the tool organizer’s inner lid piece can be removed if you pry at it a bit.
Looks like I could pop it back in no problem, too… The clips are still perfectly intact.
I wish I could post a photo.
Michael
I just bought the whole complete set from Home Depot and the bottom piece is missing the metal rod that locks them together. It’s missing from it’s docking port. I love the box and works perfect for on sight aviation repairs. Only wish they made flat tool trays with foam to be able to inventory wrenches and drivers at a glands to avoid F.O.D. Something I may have to build myself. Pelican offers one but was asking eight hundred dollars. Is there a direct line to rigid to talk with someone?
Stuart
These are made by Keter, but I don’t think they do custom configurations.
Jim Premo
Just invested $250 into this system. Started out with just the organizer and a couple of the baskets and realized the benefits of the system. Very solid investment that I will be expanding. Ridgid makes solid products these days.
Ron Sparks
Awesome boxes…worth every penny! My only thing is……………..they are shown in grey and black…………….but where can the grey one be purchased????? Home Depot and the website tells me the grey version is not available???/?/
Stuart
They only look grey because of the sunlight and camera exposure settings.
James
Can you stack 2 medium boxes on top of the large and still manoeuvre the cart around by the handle?
Stuart
Can you? I think so. Will it be as comfortable or easy? No.
With most stackable tool boxes, when you get to or above the handle level, you often lose space around the grip area. While still possible to wrap your hand around the handle, things can get cramped and the stack unwieldy due to a higher center of mass.
Rob
Just found this review, maybe old but still appears valid from what I got. Father Day Special while they last by the set of 3 and the small one is free! My HD ran out last year so it may be an annual thing.
Stuart
The individual components are sold year-round, but that 3-piece promo combo typically only comes around twice a year – around the winter holidays and Father’s Day.
Chris
I felt I needed to comment on this as this was the only viable resource online I found reviewing these boxes. I bought seven of these boxes, and I found them very sturdy, stacking is easy, well designed not to lose any inside space and easy to handle. I was concerned about the Prop 65 warning on the labels and I started digging in order to decide if I need to replace them with some other brand. There were speculations on internet stating that lead might be used for stabilizing PVC, and indeed some PVC I believe is stabilized this way, but then I found on the bottom of the boxes a stamp showing recycle 5 PP, which actually stands for Polypropylene. And to quote from internet here is what I found: “This plastic is considered safe but not very environmentally eco-friendly. Plastics #5 Polypropylene (PP) is considered to be the safest of all plastics, this is a robust plastic that is heat resistant. Because of its high heat tolerance, Polypropylene is unlikely to leach even when exposed to warm or hot water.”
Digging a little deeper I decided to go and check DeWALT Tough System and I found that it was also made of the same material and had the same plastic recycling code #5 PP just as RIDGID boxes.
Now I am little bit confused, it is claimed that #5 PP is one of the safest materials, but at the same time why would RIDGID put this Prop65 warning on their boxes? Why would DeWALT that is using the same material not put the same warning?
After all I am safe if I use these boxes, and if I store them in a closet in the room where I sleep?
Stuart
It could be the handle grip material, the gasket water seal, or something else.
Washing your hands after use is a general recommendation for items that carry Prop 65 warnings. Personally, I don’t use these cases for non-tool-related needs. For photo gear, for example, I only use Pelican cases or simpler plastic tool boxes which don’t carry Prop 65 warnings, since the reasons for such warnings are sometimes unclear.
These days, there seem to be many more possible reasons that could contribute to a Prop 65 warning, and so it’s harder to know when lead additives are the cause, or if it’s due to something else.
If it concerns you, the ToughSystem tool boxes don’t carry a Prop 65 warning – at least that I have seen – and there are other options as well, such as Bosch L-Boxxes.
Bill Konz
Rigid now also offers a crate that works with this stack. I use them for storing things like drop cords and and materials I want to protect like light bulbs. I price is under $15 so I have a few storing things for different jobs.
RIDGID 22 in. Pro Box, Black
David
I’ve used my set for 3 years now, including using the medium and cart boxes as step stools. No issues to report. 2 medium Plano tackle storage boxes will fit in the center of the small box with the dividers in place. This is a handy little storage idea for small parts. An extremely versatile set. Well worth the money.
Robert
I’m also very impressed with the packout system by ridgid. I have bought two complete sets and they allow me to have everything nice and clean in my area on every job site. The small parts bends are great for keeping track of all my project materials. I’m on my way to buying a 3 rd system with ridgid.
Tom Kelley
I need to shorten the retractable handle by 1” so the unit will fit in under my truck bed cover. Can I order a shorter handle or modify the current one?
Stuart
I don’t believe I have ever seen replaceable parts, or any user modifications I could point to.
Some brands’ rolling tool boxes feature removable handles, but not Ridgid’s.
David W.
Don’t buy the new 2.0 Ridgid medium tool boxes I have had two delivered so far with sucked in walls and bottom too! (I can send pictures if you would like.)