It's no secret that the Milwaukee PACKOUT system is the king of modular rollable storage for all your tools.However, Harbor Freight just released an upgraded version of its budget-friendly alternative, and for only $70, it looks impressively rugged and packed with features.The warmer season is right around the corner, which means it's time to clean out the garage or get ready for outdoor projects.
DIYers and professionals alike are looking for tool storage without the "red brand" price tag, but still want modularity and a bunch of features.This Packout alternative has you covered.Harbor Freight's modular rolling box is an updated contender Large 8-inch wheels, a built-in kickplate, and a hinged lid I'm talking about the new and improved Bauer Modular Rolling Box with 8-inch wheels (71046) at Harbor Freight.
For those who don't frequent HF, this modular, stackable, and durable rolling toolbox can be customized in over 50 configurations, and it's an option that many DIYers choose over more expensive options from Milwaukee, Ryobi, and CRAFTSMAN.Milwaukee's PACKOUT system is the gold standard, but at $170 for the base model and hundreds more for each additional stackable storage bin, it quickly becomes an extremely expensive storage system.And sure, Milwaukee has more customization options, stackable jobsite radios, and other fancy goodies, but if you're looking for something durable that won't break the bank, consider Bauer.
This new Bauer modular rolling toolbox from Harbor Freight is an upgraded version of the previous generation.It features several key improvements that make it a serious contender in the space.Related Are Hercules power tools at Harbor Freight worth buying? Everything you need to know about these affordable blue tools.
Posts By Cory Gunther For starters, it's extremely rugged and features an IP65 rating for water and dust resistance.You can beat this thing up on the job, and it'll keep on rolling.Here are a few key features and upgrades to this new model: Upgraded 8-inch smooth rolling all-terrain wheels A hinged lid with strong metal latches Removable handle Two integrated tape measure holders and an extension cord holder Built-in kickplate for easy transportation, and tie-down attachment points For those familiar with older generations, the lids were removable, and sometimes closing them was a pain, not to mention cumbersome.
Now, the Bauer storage box has a tough hinged lid, and early reviews suggest it's a huge upgrade.However, the biggest change is the new and improved 8-inch all-terrain wheels, which you'll love compared to the old 5.8-inch casters.Harbor Freight thought of everything this time around, and it's clear they're aiming for PACKOUT and Ryobi Link fans.
The handle is removable, if needed, reducing the height for improved storage.The kickplate is great for getting things rolling, and all the built-in tape measure and extension cord holders are welcomed additions.Harbor Freight mentioned that this even has a dedicated level storage area, multiple attachment points to tie down anything that won't fit inside, and the handle has an improved grip for all-day comfort.
There's even a redesigned inner tray for quick access to your most-used gear.Just like the previous generation, Harbor Freight's new Bauer rollable toolbox comes with a slew of customization add-ons that securely stack together, including a milk carton-style "catch-all" box and a new slim tray for odds and ends, screwdrivers, and other small items.If there's one downside, the weight limit is still around 60 lbs, though I've got far more than that in my older unit, and it works just fine.
Best of all, this excellent modular rolling storage and toolbox is only $70.That's honestly the biggest selling point, and a huge reason to give it a try.Bauer Modular Rolling Toolbox (8-inch wheels) Harbor Freight is aiming for Milwaukee with its upgraded Bauer modular rolling storage box.
It features a thoughtful design, big 8-inch wheels, and over 50 configurations for all your tools and gear. $70 at Harbor Freight Expand Collapse Bauer's new rolling storage is durable and affordable $100 cheaper than a Milwaukee PACKOUT box Again, it's no secret that Milwaukee has one of the best systems in this space.The PACKOUT is excellent, but at $170 (or more) just to get started, it's not for the faint of heart.Professionals already invested in Milwaukee likely won't want to start over, but the Harbor Freight option might be great for at-home use.
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Bauer's new $70 rolling storage box is only $5 more than the older model, and it's packed with improvements.For the price, it'll also be an excellent model to consider over the Ryobi LINK system, which doesn't feel all that durable.Why pay $170 or $229 for a Milwaukee PACKOUT box, or even $100 for a Ryobi LINK or CRAFTSMAN model, when you can wander to the nearby Harbor Freight and get the Bauer for only $69.99.
The all-new and improved Bauer modular rolling storage box looks like a capable alternative that'll be perfect for the garage, on the job, or even as a storage system for camping gear and more.
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