Rolling out in September 2017, the new Milwaukee Packout storage system offers a wide range of modular storage. Upon launch, eight different Milwaukee Packout products will be available, however Milwaukee plans for the Packout system to continue expanding in the near future. The first items to hit the shelves are three (3) tool boxes, two (2) organizers and three (3) storage totes.

We first heard about the Packout system when in Milwaukee, back in June 2017. We covered the news in our Top 5 Tools From Milwaukee NPS17 2017 article. More information is now available, so keep reading. Prices and specs are below.

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Milwaukee Packout Storage System Features

IP65 Rated Containers

Many of the tool brands have their own line of propriety modular storage containers, each with their own connecting and latching mechanisms. Milwaukee is doing their own flavor with the Packout storage system, and it does seem to have some merit. The stacking and locking feature/s give the appearance of a Lego block and containers lock together easily with one hand. Even the bottom of the storage totes include the blocked design.

With the exception of the totes, all the Milwaukee Packout storage system boxes are IP65 rated, protecting contents from dust and water. All the boxes can also be padlocked for security. Furthermore, these boxes have metal-reinforced corners and are made from impact resistant polymer.

Pro Tip:  When reading IPxx ratings. The first number is the solid article protection (dust). The second number is for liquid ingress protection (water). IP65: Protected from total dust ingress. Protected from low pressure water jets from any direction. Source: Wiki

Packout Tool Boxes

Packout Mobile Cart

While any of the boxes, organizers and totes can be purchased individually, if you want easy mobility, then the Packout rolling tool box is a must. The rolling tool box includes nine-inch all-terrain rubber-tread wheels. Both wheels are connected with a metal axle, threaded on each end with locking nuts. A wide handle makes it easy for users to wheel their belongings where they’re needed most. Most of all, the Packout rolling tool box can withstand weights of up to 250 pounds.

One unique feature to the Milwaukee Packout modular storage system tool boxes is the auto-locking lid. How many times have you grabbed the handle of a small box, pick it up, and all the contents drop out onto the ground? Too many times to count for me. The handle on the Packout tool boxes folds out from the lid. When the handle is lifted, an integrated hook on the other end of the handle automatically locks the lid. Even if the latches are not locked on the lid, users can pick up the box without tossing the contents everywhere. This may be disruptive innovation.

Packout – Auto-Locking Lid

The medium and small tool boxes keep with same construction and connection features. That same IP65 rating and impact resistance keeps your tools and accessories safe from the elements. Each of the tool boxes include a tray for organizing hand tools, as well as all the lids include a Milwaukee Tick mounting location.

• Rolling Tool Box: 48-22-8246 ($129.99 MSRP)
• Large Tool Box: 48-22-8425 ($79.99 MSRP)
• Tool Box: 48-22-8424 ($69.99 MSRP)

Packout Organizers

At this time, only two (2) organizers are available with the Packout system. You have the choice of full-size or half-size – Packout Organizer and the Packout Compact Organizer. The title for each pretty much sums it up. Organizers get the same IP65 dust and water protection, as well as they share the stacking and locking system. Compact organizers are half-size, so you have the option of two organizers that clip in beside one another on top of a tool box or full-size organizer.

The individual bins within the organizers also include a seal around the top of the bin. This keeps small bits and pieces from cross-contaminating other bins. Milwaukee calls this the “No-Travel bin seal”. Also, each of the removable bins include screw slots that allow users to attach to wood, metal or other materials.

• Organizer: 48-22-8431 ($44.99 MSRP)
• Compact: Organizer 48-22-8435 ($29.99 MSRP)

Packout Totes

In addition to the hard boxes, the Milwaukee Packout storage system also include soft storage totes as well. Three totes are available in 10, 15 and 20-inch varieties. These totes are great for carrying hand tools and accessories. Of course, the totes also easily lock and stack with the rest of the Packout lineup. Totes are are built with 1680D ballistic material with a base made from impact resistant polymer.

• 20” Tote: 48-22-8320 ($129.99 MSRP)
• 15” Tote: 48-22-8315 ($99.99 MSRP)
• 10” Tote: 48-22-8310 ($79.99 MSRP)

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Our Thoughts – Milwaukee Packout Modular Storage System

Efficiency and less shrinkage are key factors in increasing profits. Protecting tools and equipment, keeping track of said equipment, and helping personnel be better prepared will definitely aid in this plight. Tool and accessory storage can help ensure there is a ‘home’ for each tool, as well as making transportation easier.

This new Milwaukee Packout storage system seems to be tough enough for the jobsite. From our limited hands-on experience at Milwaukee NPS17, this modular system is a great start for Milwaukee to expand upon. We really like the unique “Lego-type” connecting pattern. We easily sat a box on top of another, slid it back, and it locked into place. Pull up on the release in the front, and they separate. We also like the half-sizes in the Organizers and Totes, allowing for further customization of your setup.

Expansion

We hope to soon see some power tools from red that integrate with the Milwaukee Packout storage system. I can see a jobsite miter saw or worktable locking in the top of a tool box on the mobile cart. The Packout system makes for a great ready-made base for working.

Once these release in September, our hopes are to have a full system in the shop to test and review. Of course, we’ll follow up with our comments and results. Stay tuned and up to date with us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel as well.