Mobile storage for small parts: Tool carts from the RUWI Carpentry Shop
Why we made our small parts warehouse mobile
When we moved into our new woodworking shop , we faced a decision: Should we stick with the classic wooden shelf unit with its countless, compartmentalized drawers? Everyone knows the system, and everyone knows the problem: You search, you rummage, and in the end, the one M6 screw you need for the fixture is missing. That costs time and patience.
We wanted a solution that combines transparency with mobility. The goal: the parts shouldn't be gathering dust on the wall, but should be where they're needed.
The classic wooden shelf with lots of drawers: cluttered and inflexible
Transparency beats guesswork
Instead of solid fronts, we opted for transparent tilting boxes . The advantage for operations is obvious: You can see what’s inside as you walk by, and most importantly, when stock is running low. A simple label also helps ensure you don’t miss the right time to reorder.
Transparent tilting bins provide a clear overview and make reordering easier
Order that adapts
The centerpiece of our cart is the reversible center panel made of black MDF. While the folding drawers are securely bolted in place, the tool holders remain adjustable thanks to cross-milled keyways. Using simple plastic sliders, pins for saw blades and router bits can be positioned in seconds. You can also place tool trays or iPad and tablet holders . This way, the small parts storage unit can be transformed into a fully-fledged machine setup cart when needed. This multifunctionality saves us valuable floor space in the workshop.
Adjustable tool holders for end mills, saw blades, and Systainers
A practical tip
We mill the grooves using the finger cutter on the front and back in an offset pattern. This preserves the material thickness of the center wall and ensures the necessary rigidity, even when the cart is fully loaded.
What we would do differently today
At first, we had to laboriously slide the slotted nuts in from the side. That’s incredibly annoying in everyday workshop life. So we used a slot cutter to slightly widen the slots on the outer sides. Thanks to this “keyhole principle,” you can insert brackets exactly where they’re needed at any time—without having to move other parts out of the way or partially disassemble the car.
Tool racks and holders can be used flexibly as needed
Mobility requires carrying capacity
Never underestimate the combined weight of the items on this cart. When numerous small parts, a few fixtures, and heavy milling cutters are concentrated in a small space, cheap hardware store casters quickly give out. That’s why we use four heavy-duty swivel casters, ensuring the cart remains easy to maneuver and stays stable even when fully loaded.
The mobile small-parts storage system in action – right at the workstation
Three Questions for Your Organization System
- Stationary or mobile? Does it make economic sense for the employee to go to the materials, or should the materials be brought to the workstation? While mobile solutions offer flexibility, they also require space, clear responsibilities, and discipline.
- Visual inspection or ERP? Do you need a direct view of your inventory, or are your processes already so digitized that small parts are managed entirely through the system?
- Choosing materials: Does it have to be sheet metal, or do you still have some leftover multiplex or MDF on the scrap shelf that could be used to build a sturdy frame? For our carts, we still had base frames left over from a prototype series of our shelf carts. A wooden frame would be just as feasible, though, and is often quicker to build yourself.
A wooden version with a drawer unit is also a possibility—shown here as a design sketch
Our solution isn't a one-size-fits-all approach; it's based on our own practical experience. Maybe a T-slot system would work better for you, or a base made entirely of solid wood. Ultimately, the only thing that matters is that the system fits your business and the workflow in your department.
