A Handyman's Neat, Packed Tool Trailer

Ramp Upgrades

One problem with trailers is ramps:

Some tool trailer owners like to be able to move carts, large tools, or materials into or out of the trailer. However, where the ramp meets the ground, there is a gap. There is also a gap at where the ramp meets the trailer.

Mel built a short "ramp toe" out of plywood at the ground and narrow gap filler at the trailer end to make wheeling his carts easier.

Full Sheets in an 8-footer

With the V-nose, he can store full lengths of sheet goods in the trailer. A shelf at 50", in the V-nose, gives him a place to store safety equipment, but also accounts for the height of plywood and sheetrock. He plans to add some cane bolts to the shelf that will drop down to hold sheet goods from moving side to side.

Cubbies and Tool Organizers

Mel used Ron Paulk-style tool cubbies to store his hand tools. He made one big change, though.

These cubbies are meant to be adjustable, with dividers slotting into any of the numerous slots routed into the tops and bottoms of shelves.

Typically, these setups use a strip of plywood screwed in at the bottom to hold the dividers and tools in place.

Instead, Mel put his retention strip on a length of piano hinge and used clasps at the ends to keep it in place. This allows him to quickly and easily reorganize on a whim. Most tool trailers are modified after the initial build, so this is a good way to be able to try out different organization configurations.

Many of Mel's tools and materials are stored in wheeled Ridgid bins, Grab 'N Go style, at the bottom of his shelves.

Business Toilet

Mel keeps a small portapotty on his tool trailer, because, well, you never know! Most homeowners are probably thrilled. This isn't the first time we've seen a portable bathroom in a work van.

He says he doesn't like to use customer bathrooms, which is something you need to think about if you're going to be doing dirty work and other bathroom possibilities aren't an option.

He's got supplies and plans to install a privacy curtain.

Never Locked In

He works in Utah, which can have high temperatures. Mel doesn't want to worry about someone locking him in his trailer, so he can made a quick system that allows him to lock the side door open while he's inside.

Ladders Outside

The trailer is only 5 feet wide and so its tires protrude further than the cargo box. Above the driver side fender, Mel mounted two step ladders on hooks with a cable lock. This placement makes it easier to grab the ladders than if they are on the roof.

Another thin, short step ladder is mounted inside the trailer.