Cantilever Tool Boxes

About Cantilever Tool Boxes

Cantilever tool boxes are a practical storage solution favoured by UK tradespeople for their distinctive multi-tiered design that allows instant access to organised compartments. When the lid opens, stacked trays automatically fan outwards on hinged arms, providing simultaneous visibility of all storage levels without needing to remove anything. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks cantilever tool boxes in both durable metal and lightweight plastic construction, with configurations ranging from compact 3-tray models to comprehensive 5-tray systems suitable for extensive tool collections.

The range at MyToolShed includes trusted brands such as Stanley, Draper, Sealey, Bahco, and Facom, alongside premium modular options from Festool and Makita. Metal cantilever boxes offer superior security and durability for site work, whilst plastic versions provide rust-free, lightweight storage ideal for mobile tradespeople. The expanding tray system keeps smaller items like drill bits and screwdrivers organised in upper compartments, whilst the deeper base holds bulkier equipment such as power tool batteries and larger hand tools.

Applications

Cantilever tool boxes serve a broad range of trades and applications across the UK:

• Electricians and sparkies storing cable cutters, wire strippers, screwdrivers, terminals, and testing equipment
• Plumbers and heating engineers organising spanners, adjustable wrenches, PTFE tape, and various fittings
• Carpenters and chippies keeping chisels, marking tools, drill bits, and hand tools for first and second fix work
• Mechanics and motor engineers arranging socket sets, spanners, and automotive hand tools in workshop environments
• Maintenance technicians requiring portable, well-organised tool storage for multi-site work
• General builders needing versatile storage for mixed tool collections on construction sites
• DIY enthusiasts seeking practical workshop organisation and easy tool access for home improvement projects

Choosing The Right Cantilever Tool Boxes

Material Construction: Metal cantilever boxes, typically manufactured from powder-coated steel, provide superior security and durability for site work where tools may be exposed to harsh conditions. Plastic versions offer rust-free storage, lighter weight for mobile work, and suit indoor workshops or situations where carrying weight is a consideration.

Tray Configuration: A 3-tray cantilever box suits most tradespeople with modest tool collections, balancing capacity and portability. Four or five-tray models provide extensive organisation but become significantly heavier when fully loaded. Consider whether you need multiple shallow trays for small items or fewer, deeper trays for larger hand tools.

Security Features: For site security, look for metal cantilever boxes with integrated padlock hasps. Stanley FatMax and Sealey models often feature reinforced locking points, whilst plastic versions typically use clip latches suitable for workshop use.

System Compatibility: If you use modular storage from Makita or Festool, consider cantilever options that integrate with existing systems. The Makita MakPac and Festool Systainer ranges offer cantilever-style access within stackable, connectable units.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a cantilever tool box and a regular toolbox?

A cantilever tool box features multiple trays that automatically fan outwards on hinged arms when you open the lid, providing simultaneous access to all storage levels. Regular toolboxes typically have single compartments or removable trays that must be manually lifted out. The cantilever design offers superior organisation and faster tool access for efficient workflow.

Are metal or plastic cantilever tool boxes better?

Metal cantilever boxes from brands like Draper, Bahco, and Sealey excel in durability and security for professional site environments where robust construction is essential. Plastic versions offer lighter weight for mobile work, won't rust in damp conditions, and cost less initially, making them ideal for workshop storage and domestic use.

How much weight can a cantilever tool box hold?

Quality metal cantilever boxes typically handle 15-25kg of tools comfortably, whilst plastic versions generally suit lighter loads of 10-15kg. Consider not just the box's structural capacity but whether you can comfortably carry that weight, especially when working from ladders or climbing stairs on site. Distribute heavier items in the base compartment for better balance.