Our Milwaukee PackOut Modular Storage System review has us covering everything the company currently offers. The system allows you to easily stack and lock together boxes, organizers and totes in multiple sizes and configurations. With an intuitive, quick connection mechanism, you can freely stack and lock a variety of PackOut tool boxes, organizers and totes into various configurations to suit your needs. In addition, Packout has continued to expand into products such as Packout radios, Packout lights, Milwaukee Packout drawers, and even Packout vacuums.
The original PackOut Modular Storage System consisted of 8 products – 3 Tool Cases, 2 Organizers and 3 Storage Totes. All products in the PackOut collection emphasize convenience, organization and durability. Since then, however, the system has expanded almost exponentially.
We will break down our review of the Milwaukee Packout system in several stages. First, we'll look at each class of storage as a whole.
The foundation of the Milwaukee PackOut system is the rolling tool box. There are two other non-wheeled toolboxes in the same category. For common functionality, they all feature IP65 dust and water resistance and reinforced corners.
All tool cases in the Milwaukee PackOut range are made from impact resistant polymer. There is also a Milwaukee Tick mount on the cover.
In our Milwaukee Packout review, we paid special attention to the latches on each kit. Strong latches instill confidence. I like that Milwaukee includes a metal washer to reinforce the padlock hole. However, one of our boxes has lost one, so you'll want to keep an eye out for those.
What I'd really like to see is these inner boxes nested onto the Packout lid. However, the design feature that allows the cases to lock together requires some extra tooling to get the case and chest to fit nicely inside.
Milwaukee PackOut Organizer Options
When you move to the PackOut organizer, things start to shrink slightly. The latch is not as strong, but still fits the application perfectly. The handle is also a bit small. However, the connection points are as strong as the toolbox.
Based on recent memory, you'll find it very similar to the Milwaukee Job Site Organizer. The inner boxes are the same and you can organize them however you like. The cover is also recessed so drill bits, fasteners etc don't hang around next door. The lids are see-through, so it's easy to identify what's inside each box. Milwaukee crafts each bin from impact resistant polymer rated IP 65.
Like the inner box on a tool box, what's missing here is the ability to set the litter box on top with some level of security.
Milwaukee PackOut Tote
Unique to the PackOut system is the integrated soft storage tote that clips onto the top of any PackOut toolbox or organizer. You can attach a carry bag to the top of your PackOut gear for easy portability. These totes are available in 10", 15" and 20" sizes and come with a variety of pocket and loop combinations. They all feature 1680D ballistic material construction, and an impact-resistant molded base.
One thing I really like about having the tote integrated into the PackOut system is that it allows me to organize my hand tools separately from my power tools. In fact, how often do you go to work without hand tools?
In the end, it's a great way to make sure you can customize your entire system and get what you need for every job.
Milwaukee Packers Storage and Customization
Starting with wall/floor panels, you can more easily hang Packout-compatible tool boxes, radios and other solutions.
In 2022, Packout took the next step, adding in-store storage and organization. Two new siding sizes (one smaller, one larger) now make it easier to customize the use of spaces. From there, we have a wide variety of accessories, from hooks and shelves to battery organizers and long-handled tool holders. There's even a cupboard and paper towel holder.
Whether you're decluttering the shop or garage, it's the best overall system we've used.
the bottom line
A lot of people have asked me to compare the Milwaukee Packout system to what you get from DeWalt or Ridgid. In short, it's a better system — but it's more expensive. It's a slippery slope, though. It's a bit like comparing an SUV on a car frame to an SUV on a truck frame. Yes, they are both SUVs, but they are not in the same class. This is where the Milwaukee PackOut system compares to other portable storage options – it's just in a different class.
What I love about this system is how customizable it is and so many storage options. Optimizing toolboxes for power tools and accessories, organizers for fasteners, and totes for hand tools, I can pick up the components I need for any job and leave the rest at the store or in the truck. Plus, you have a solid system with unique and flexible options for each component.
Is there room for improvement? Absolutely. I'd really like to have all of the interior chests and boxes fitted to the PackOut lock, and every component has a trade-off here and there. But overall, it's a system that every businessman wants to be in. Milwaukee has told us this is just the beginning for PackOut.
Customize and Build Your Own Packaging System in Milwaukee
You can actually customize and build your own Milwaukee Packout system by dragging and dropping components together to decide what works for you. This is an interesting module Milwaukee Tool added to their Packout subsite. Check it out yourself if you haven't already.
Milwaukee PackOut Modular Storage System Components
Milwaukee PackOut Rolling Toolbox
Based on our review of the PackOut system, we have the rolling toolbox. With 9-inch all-terrain wheels and metal thru-axles, Milwaukee designed this tool box to roll easily over a variety of surfaces and job site conditions. The tool box includes an industrial-grade, ergonomic extension handle designed to support box loads up to 250 lbs.
Unless you're an electrician or an HVAC pro and can really fit your tools in a bag or backpack, you want to get a PackOut rolling box as your foundation. It's perfect for bulk storage and can hold a variety of power tools and accessories. As long as you're not OCD and everything is exactly where you put it, it's a great option.
When we reviewed the Milwaukee Packout review, we liked that the lid opens on its own. This is true even when sitting at an angle. You can feel it snap gently into place. The latch is strong, which is always a win.
The telescoping handle seems pretty close to being overbuilt. Bear in mind that it may support the rest of your PackOut system and its contents.
Our rolling box received some damage in transit. While it's always a little disappointing when your new tool arrives less than perfect, it's actually a great opportunity to learn how the reinforcement protects the box and its contents.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8426
- 250 lb weight capacity
- Industrial grade extension handle
- 9″ all-terrain tires
- IP65 rating
- Internal Organizer Tray
- Length: 22.1″
- Width: 25.6″
- Height: 18.9″
- Weight: 23.4 lbs
- MSRP: $139
Milwaukee PackOut Large Toolbox Review
Our review of the Milwaukee PackOut Large Toolbox shows that it has two carrying handles, giving you the best of both worlds. Depending on what you're carrying, you can use it as a lunch box or as a suitcase. The only real downside to the exterior is that the lid doesn't stay open when you attach it to the rolling toolbox. However, you can alleviate this by putting the handle of the rolling box all the way down.
Inside, you see the same accessory organizer as the roll case. The rest is mass storage. The only thing I'm missing is the tool storage spot for the drill and impact driver that you find in the 24" work box.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8425
- Metal reinforced locking point
- 100 lb weight capacity
- Internal Tray Organizer
- One-click installation location
- IP65 rated weather sealing
- Length: 22.1″
- Width: 16.1″
- Height: 11.3″
- Weight: 12.1 lbs
- MSRP: $89.97
Milwaukee PackOut Toolbox
The smallest Milwaukee PackOut kit product we've reviewed is dominated by its organization. Large storage space is small, but there is enough space for 2-3 power drills or drivers as well as chargers and batteries.
The storage space at either end reveals 4 smaller boxes. One of the top boxes opens, the other snaps closed and offers 4 separate compartments. Accessories such as Sawzall blades fit in the open blade, and smaller blades fit perfectly in the locking lid case.
Below the top box is the same deeper box. They have 3 compartments each, perfect for storing fasteners.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8424
- 75 lb weight capacity
- IP65 rated weather sealing
- Internal Organizer Tray
- One-click installation location
- Length: 22.1″
- Width: 16.1″
- Height: 6.6″
- Weight: 10.1 lbs
- MSRP: $79.97
Milwaukee Packing Drawers
Milwaukee Packout Drawers is one of the most anticipated reviews. Packout Drawers come in two styles and provide a very convenient way to store tools or accessories while providing a locking feature.
- Model Numbers: 48-22-8442 (2 drawers); 48-22-8443 (3 drawers)
- 2 and 3 drawer tool boxes
- IP65 rated weather sealing
- Holds 50 lbs
- Impact body
- internal organization
- Metal ball bearing drawer slides
- Quick Adjust Dividers (1 set of dividers included)
- metal reinforced corners
- Length: 16.3″
- Width: 22.2″
- Height: 14.3″
- MSRP: $149.99 (2-drawer), $164 (3-drawer)
organizer
Milwaukee PackOut Organizer Review
This full width organizer features a combination of 10 interior bins. You can remove and hang them during use. You can also move them around as you like inside. If you have more than one of this model and a compact organizer or combination, you can swap out the bins for any combination you want.
I like the long middle section of the organizer for longer bits, fasteners or recipe blades. It's not removable, but it's definitely useful.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8430
- 10 removable and installable litter boxes
- IP65 rated weather sealing
- No-travel bin prevents small parts from moving between bins
- Length: 19.76″
- Width: 15″
- Height: 4.61″
- Weight: 6.5 lbs.
- MSRP: $49.97
Editor's note: See how we use these types of organizers to create the best LEGO storage and organization system we've ever used.
PackOut Compact Organizer
The Milwaukee PackOut system is unique in that there are several half-width options, the compact organizer being one of them. This one has 5 removable storage boxes without the long storage area that full size organizers have.
The interesting thing here is the latch. They are flat on the corners rather than on the front or sides. This exposes them better than other latches on tool boxes and organizers. However, I like the off security they offer.
One thing to note here about the interlocks – the compact organizer will fit on any other tool box and organizer. You can only lock another compact organizer or 10-inch tote on it, though. If you have two compact boxes that lock side by side, you've already opened the whole line to lock them. In fact, you might have these on top, or just a tote or two.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8435
- 5 removable and installable litter boxes
- IP65 rated weather sealing
- No-travel bin seal prevents small parts from moving between bins
- Length: 9.72″
- Width: 15.24″
- Height: 4.61″
- Weight: 3.31″
- MSRP: $34.97
storage box
Milwaukee PackOut 20" Tote
As the largest PackOut tote, you have 32 pockets to work with. In fact, Milwaukee could basically throw in more. But they decided to leave one side without pockets. With a tote this size, I can carry a variety of power tools on the open side — including the Sawzall.
A very good consideration is to place cushions on one side. It helps relieve any pain that can arise when the sides of your bag rub against you when you're carrying your tote. If you're an electrician or plumber, the metal tape measure holder and hanging loop is a must-have for every professional.
Dividers are not removable, but there is a gap on each side. It's not a big deal, but anything loose in the bag has the potential to switch sides. I want the zipper pocket to be a little deeper. In fact, you can put a couple of Sawzall blades, pencils, or longer accessories in it.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8320
- 1680 Ballistic Material Construction
- Impact-resistant molded base
- All Metal Hardware
- padded shoulder straps
- Durable overmolded handle
- 32 total pockets
- Length: 11″
- Width: 20″
- Height: 17″
- Weight: 7.65 lbs.
- MSRP: $109.97
Milwaukee PackOut 15" Tote
The PackOut 15" Tote is essentially a 20" model of the Mini Me. The only difference is that it's a bit smaller, has one less pocket, and it only locks onto one half of a PackOut toolbox or organizer. It has the same strengths and weaknesses as its larger sibling.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8315
- 1680 Ballistic Material Construction
- Impact-resistant molded base
- All Metal Hardware
- padded shoulder straps
- Durable overmolded handle
- 31 total pockets
- Length: 11″
- Width: 15″
- Height: 17″
- Weight: 6.15 lbs.
- MSRP: $99
Milwaukee PackOut 10" Tote
The smallest member of the PackOut tote family is actually the widest. It has 28 total pockets and a detachable middle compartment. Both exterior zipped pockets are deeper than the rest of the members. Like the 15" tote, this tote is half the width of a full-size PackOut tool box or organizer.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8310
- 1680 Ballistic Material Construction
- Impact-resistant molded base
- All Metal Hardware
- padded shoulder straps
- Durable overmolded handle
- 28 total pockets
- MSRP: $62.97
Milwaukee Packout Kit
I love that Milwaukee started with the open top tool bag as a new concept of modular storage. They take it to the next level with a zipper top tool pocket. These aren't just standard luggage styles where you throw a bunch of tools, but you're welcome to do so if you want to.
Milwaukee Packout 15″ Tool Bag
The 15" tool bag gives you plenty of storage space for tools up to a circular saw or Sawzall, allowing you to combine smaller tools with their accessories. There are large exterior pockets on both sides, and thin MOLLE-style straps clip other gear. This bundle takes up a half-width area on your system, and you can leave room for a second bundle next to it.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8321
- 1680 Ballistic Material Construction
- Impact-resistant molded base
- All Metal Hardware
- heavy duty zipper
- daisy chain with dot
- padded shoulder straps
- 2 outer pockets
- Reinforced side walls
- top and side handles
- MSRP: $59.97
Milwaukee Packout 20″ Tool Bag
The 20" tool bag has the same feature set as the 15" tool bag with expanded storage space. There is enough room for a complete 4-piece combo kit. You also add 5 interior pockets – medium size is great for gauges and 4 small pockets for small gauges like hand tools and voltage testers. This is a full-width item, so it will form the top of your Packout stack.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8322
- 1680 Ballistic Material Construction
- Impact-resistant molded base
- All Metal Hardware
- heavy duty zipper
- daisy chain with dot
- padded shoulder straps
- 6 interior pockets
- 2 outer pockets
- Reinforced side walls
- top and side handles
- MSRP: $54.97
Milwaukee Packout Thin Organizer
The Low-Profile Organizer is essentially a shorter version of the standard Packout Organizer. If you've been filling your organizer with washers or small fasteners, you know they can start to gain some weight pretty quickly. Both Low-Profile models give you a way to store more shallowly while still preventing items from moving between bins.
They also have dividers to help you organize into smaller areas. Note that these dividers do not prevent movement from one part of the bin to another. If you think you've found the perfect replacement for your tackle box, those hooks and little weights will still be in the mix.
One feature I really like is the longer middle space. It's perfect for storing Sawzall blades and is also on the original storage box.
This is a full width organizer that you can stack more Packout products on top of.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8431
- slim profile
- 10 removable trash cans
- IP65 rated weather sealing
- No-travel bin prevents small parts from moving between bins
- Length: 19.76″
- Width: 16.38″
- Height: 2.52″
- Weight: 4.55 lbs.
- MSRP: $44.97
Milwaukee Packout Compact Thin Organizer
The half-width compact slimline organizer has all the same features as the full-width version, just with a longer central storage area. It is a half-width product on which another item can be locked.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8436
- slim profile
- 5 removable trash cans
- IP65 rated weather sealing
- No-travel bin prevents small parts from moving between bins
- Length: 16.38″
- Width: 9.76″
- Height: 2.52″
- Weight: 2.35 lbs.
- MSRP: $29.97
Milwaukee Packout Technology Pack
58 pockets surround the Tech Bag for protection from the elements and wear and tear. There's also a hardshell pocket for extra survivability for your tablet or laptop. The backpack is quite roomy and offers a variety of different spaces for these pockets to help you really organize your bag. Top zip closure keeps out floating dust and debris in the field.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8300
- 58 pockets
- Includes hardshell tech pocket, jigsaw pocket and daisy chain shoulder strap
- 1680D ballistic material
- Depth: 16.93″
- Width: 10.63″
- Height: 17.72″
- Weight: 8.27 lbs.
- MSRP: $119.97
Milwaukee Packout Backpack
Packout's backpack has 48 pockets for hands-free climbing or carrying other equipment. Like the Tech Bag, the Milwaukee includes a hardshell pouch to protect electronics and other tech. They added extra padding to the shoulder straps, taking their packs a step further than most. There is a chest strap to help stabilize the load.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8301
- 48 pockets
- Includes hardshell tech pocket, jigsaw pocket, daisy chain shoulder strap and tape measure holder
- 1680D ballistic material
- Depth: 15.75″
- Width: 11.81″
- Height: 15.75″
- Weight: 7.34 lbs.
- MSRP: $129.97
Milwaukee Pack Cooler
At first glance, the Packout Cooler looks like Milwaukee's job site cooler. I have no opinion. The soft-edged design is what I often carry, and my friends are reluctant to return it after borrowing it. It's perfect for carrying lunch and plenty of liquids, while exterior pockets keep other items dry. Now you can get the same benefits with Packout compatibility.
- Model: Milwaukee 48-22-8302
- 24 hours ice storage
- Food-grade leak-proof liner, no sweat on the outer layer
- 5 storage compartments
- Tape Holder/Bottle Opener
- Depth: 15.75″
- Height: 11.81″
- Width: 15.75″
- Weight: 3.8 lbs.
- MSRP: $74.97