Buying guide · updated 24 Oct 2026

Best ute and van storage: build a modular system

A modular storage system turns a messy ute tray into a mobile workshop. Here is how to build a Milwaukee PACKOUT stack, plus a leather-bag option.

What to look for

  • Start with a rolling box as the base, then add modules as you need them.
  • Organisers with removable bins stop fixings spilling everywhere.
  • Drawer boxes are great for hand tools you grab often.
  • Strap or rack-mount your stack. Loose boxes in a ute tray are dangerous.
🧰Ute & van storage

Milwaukee PACKOUT Rolling Tool Box

Best for: Ute and van tradies building a modular storage system

The base of the PACKOUT system: a wheeled box that the other modules lock onto.

Pros

  • Wheels and handle carry a full stack
  • Modules lock together
  • Tough for ute trays and vans

Cons

  • PACKOUT gets expensive as you add modules
  • Heavy when fully loaded
$402.92at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
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🧰Ute & van storage

Milwaukee PACKOUT Tool Box

Best for: Adding to your PACKOUT stack

A standard PACKOUT box that locks onto the rolling box or a van rack.

Pros

  • Locks onto the rest of PACKOUT
  • Tough shell
  • Large space for tools

Cons

  • Only locks onto PACKOUT modules
  • No wheels
$201.90at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
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🧰Ute & van storage

Milwaukee PACKOUT Organiser

Best for: Screws, fixings and small parts

A PACKOUT organiser with removable bins for small parts.

Pros

  • Removable bins
  • Locks into the PACKOUT stack
  • See-through lid

Cons

  • Bins can shift if overfilled
  • Pricey for a parts organiser
$126.22at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
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🧰Ute & van storage

Milwaukee PACKOUT 2-Drawer Tool Box

Best for: Hand tools you grab often

A PACKOUT box with two drawers.

Pros

  • Drawers keep tools tidy
  • Locks into the stack
  • Great in a van

Cons

  • Drawers add weight
  • Costs more than a plain box
$372.82at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
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🧰Ute & van storage

Milwaukee PACKOUT Crate

Best for: Bulky gear and quick grab-and-go

An open PACKOUT crate for bulky items.

Pros

  • Lowest price PACKOUT module
  • Good for leads, PPE and bulky gear
  • Stacks onto the system

Cons

  • Open top, not weatherproof
  • Small items can fall out
$99.00at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
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🧰Ute & van storage

Milwaukee PACKOUT 20" Tool Bag

Best for: Tradies who want a bag that clips into PACKOUT

A 20" open tool bag that clips onto PACKOUT.

Pros

  • Clips onto the PACKOUT system
  • Wide opening
  • Tough fabric

Cons

  • Bag, so it isn't crush-proof
  • Dearer than non-system bags
$187.38at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
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🧰Ute & van storage

Milwaukee PACKOUT Jobsite Storage Tote 500mm

Best for: Carrying a day's tools to the job

A 500mm (20") open tote that fits the PACKOUT system.

Pros

  • Quick access open design
  • Fits the PACKOUT system
  • Carries a lot

Cons

  • Open top
  • Large size isn't for small kits
$202.92at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
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🧰Ute & van storage

Ultimate Builders Australian Leather Tool Bag

Best for: Builders who like leather

An Australian leather builder's tool bag.

Pros

  • Leather ages well
  • Not tied to a tool brand system
  • Classic look

Cons

  • Leather needs some care
  • Doesn't lock into modular systems
$209.00at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
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FAQ

Is PACKOUT worth the money?

If you load and unload every day, a locking modular system saves time. If your tools stay in the van, cheaper shelving may be enough.

Prices checked on 24 Oct 2026 at the retailer shown and may have changed. TradieKit AU may earn a commission from links on this page. Disclosure.