Harbor Freight Tool Box - 72 inch

[Hawkins]

All,

Hoping to get your opinions on the HF US General 72 inch tool chest. I am a DIY guy with a lot of stuff but won't be using this much. Looking to organize garage + future proof so I think I'd like something as big as the 72 inch.

I've read and watched a lot of reviews/YT videos and things seem favorable. Here's my takeaways:

1) Cost $1000
2) People complain about drawer squeaks and wobbles. Rivets to fix but heard this may have been fixed in new models. I am fine with this
3)Wheels may be not very effective - I am fine with this, it's going to sit in the same place in my garage --probably forever.
4) I like the drawer layout better than other boxes.
5) The latch to open is on side and not the handle. I am fine with this.
6) I actually like the way the drawers feel/slide better than other toolboxes.
7) 22 inch depth and drawers don't come out all the way. This is a downside in my eyes but for the price tag, can live with this. If this was an every day use kind of thing, I might have thought otherwise.

What I am not seeing is reviews past 3 years old. Anyone have these and have issues? Problems with prebuying (i was told buy now receive in 2-3 weeks)? What are your thoughts? What should I be careful of?

Thanks

 

[SJay3660]

I have their 56" box and am very happy with it. I also have a 44" that I have had for 10 years. They make a great box. We have the 72" at work but have only had it a month. For the money you can't go wrong.

 

[Hawkins]

Thanks for the reply. I get nervous when spending $1k for something from Harbor Freight. I've read they cherry pick reviews so I wanted to see if I could get some honest opinions. Appreciate your comments

 

[moon_tanner]

I had the same concerns as you, and that will be the box I buy later this year regardless of the reviews. I'm expecting the problems reported when I buy that cheap of a box.

The only other option for me is to a dent and ding special from Rockn' Tool Boxes.

 

[Super Sport]

From what I have been hearing, HF orders have been significantly delayed due to COVID. I'm not sure if it's better now that things are opening up. Just keep that in mind and don't hold your breath on 2-3 weeks.

I think it's a fine box for the money. Personally, I'd spend a little bit more and get either a Masterforce or something else similar, but in a big part because I don't like the drawer trim and latch mechanism HF uses. Drawer layout is a big issue though, so if you think the HF works best for you, I would overlook other small issues and go with that.

 

[Hawkins]

From what I have been hearing, HF orders have been significantly delayed due to COVID. I'm not sure if it's better now that things are opening up. Just keep that in mind and don't hold your breath on 2-3 weeks.

Yea I wont hold my breath. Surprised the store associated quoted that soon. It's more of a want than a need (although wife says I need something!)

I think it's a fine box for the money. Personally, I'd spend a little bit more and get either a Masterforce or something else similar, but in a big part because I don't like the drawer trim and latch mechanism HF uses. Drawer layout is a big issue though, so if you think the HF works best for you, I would overlook other small issues and go with that.

Very good point. The drawer layout is almost perfect. Most other 72 inch chests have a bunch of big drawers. I need the smaller drawers as I am not a mechanic with a lot of big tools. The US General is about the only thing I've seen where all the drawers aren't huge! Looks like my decision is made!

 

[antwon412]

I recently bought a Green 44 inch cabinet and top chest. They told me two weeks before it came in. It was there in one week.

 

[CJM8515]

Have had a 44" with an add on side drawer for 5 years now. the old style which is more shallow. i have zero complaints. i also have the older style 26" too no issues

 

[NorDel Garage]

I ordered my blue 72 last December. It arrived in about a week. I had to many small boxes,
and it was getting out of hand. I had 2 ,5 drawer service, a 44 inch, and a small service cart
plus a 3 drawer box. The 72 inch box at $1000 , was the right choice for me. I have sold off 3 boxes so far. I am a DIYer, so I don't need the the ability to move it around. I think you will be happy, and you won't break the bank

 

[ChefRex]

Do you plan on being a mechanic as a career? Find a used name brand box instead of a Chinese box that will be worth next to nothing in the future, you may pay more but it will have equity where you can upgrade.
I recently bought a new box and traded my 25 YO box that I bought used for $1700, dealer gave me 6K.
What will you get for that Chinese box?
I fully understand money's tight but if you look there are deals that are worth it.
Good luck!

 

[dagofast]

I've had my green 72 for over a year now. Still as happy with it as the day I bought it. Unbeatable value.

 

[Hawkins]

Do you plan on being a mechanic as a career? Find a used name brand box instead of a Chinese box that will be worth next to nothing in the future, you may pay more but it will have equity where you can upgrade.
I recently bought a new box and traded my 25 YO box that I bought used for $1700, dealer gave me 6K.
What will you get for that Chinese box?
I fully understand money's tight but if you look there are deals that are worth it.
Good luck!

No aspirations of being a mechanic. I am a career accountant who likes to do a lot of my own work (electrical, auto, etc.) and I like to "tinker". I just want a place to organize all my stuff. I just take pride in doing things myself and fixing things myself. Most people would say probably say a 72 inch box for someone like me is overkill. I just know with storage its better to have more than not enough. Based on what I do, I could never justify a $3k+ tool chest for my home garage. Afford yes but it'd be foolish for me to do so.

 

[Mr_B]

Do you plan on being a mechanic as a career? Find a used name brand box instead of a Chinese box that will be worth next to nothing in the future, you may pay more but it will have equity where you can upgrade.
I recently bought a new box and traded my 25 YO box that I bought used for $1700, dealer gave me 6K.
What will you get for that Chinese box?
I fully understand money's tight but if you look there are deals that are worth it.
Good luck!

Dealer didn't really give you 6K
He just used your box as leverage tool same as if buying a car and trading an old one.
You would of got huge discount if doing straight sale and what you got for the box is difference between straight sale deal and a trade in deal which likely 500 to 1K difference ...

 

[Mr_B]

No aspirations of being a mechanic. I am a career accountant who likes to do a lot of my own work (electrical, auto, etc.) and I like to "tinker". I just want a place to organize all my stuff. I just take pride in doing things myself and fixing things myself. Most people would say probably say a 72 inch box for someone like me is overkill. I just know with storage its better to have more than not enough. Based on what I do, I could never justify a $3k+ tool chest for my home garage. Afford yes but it'd be foolish for me to do so.

Your a classic example of someone who this box is likely perfect choice.
Fair few mechanics use 56" and 72" ones and they will last a while professionally.
If the layout perfect then that makes it even better as this an area most ignore then regret .
I' a mechanic and I prefer good selection of shallower drawers, I got no idea why so many like so many deep drawers !
With HF just be sure make most of the coupon deals and after a few years consider stocking a couple sets of spare slides and the plastic drawer latches while fairly easy get .
Nice effort on a work surface with small front overhang helps keep box clean and bit more protected helping longevity and if attached into metalwork well stiffens it up some more too .

 

[Hawkins]

I' a mechanic and I prefer good selection of shallower drawers, I got no idea why so many like so many deep drawers !
With HF just be sure make most of the coupon deals and after a few years consider stocking a couple sets of spare slides and the plastic drawer latches while fairly easy get .
Nice effort on a work surface with small front overhang helps keep box clean and bit more protected helping longevity and if attached into metalwork well stiffens it up some more too .

I am with you on the shallower drawers. So many boxes in the 72 inch (Husky, Extreme Tools, Masterworks, Homak), the drawers are sooo deep (height wise). Seems like the US General gives a good balance -- couple deep drawers and a fair amount of shallow on the sides. Since I don't work in a shop, locking up tools isn't an issue so the bulky stuff can go on a shelf. I am more concerned with organization of my small stuff/tools.

Thanks for the advice. I'll look into the drawer slides. Very good point!

 

[moserjj]

I just got a blue 72" masterforce from Menards after taking a long look at the HF 72". While significantly more money, I have no regrets. Slightly deeper, MUCH better drawer pulls and 3 wide drawers sealed the deal

Sent from my GM1917 using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[Mr_B]

I just got a blue 72" masterforce from Menards after taking a long look at the HF 72". While significantly more money, I have no regrets. Slightly deeper, MUCH better drawer pulls and 3 wide drawers sealed the deal

Sent from my GM1917 using The Garage Journal mobile app

Yes the masterforce boxes probably a little better than homak .
Masterforce 72" being particularly nice, only negative I have is too many deep drawers .
It was great value when could get them around 1200-1300 with rebate deal
I'd want swap out 2 of the left bank drawers for 4 shallow ones .
Only thing that holds Masterforce back is lack of retail stores and shipping bit pricey.
the 40 and 50" range boxes don't have great drawer arrangement either and some 2 banks a 50/50 split which not great idea besides manufacture ease/cost benefit .
Drawer latching is proper job and latch is on outer side of drawer which better design than homaks, the wheels also seem pretty durable .

 

[Hawkins]

Agreed. I don't like all the deep drawers on Masterforce. That and I probably couldn't justify an extra $700 for my usage.

That being said, has anyone been able to negotiate add-on items with Harbor Freight with purchase this large? ie. Wrench/Socket Organizers, etc? Or even an accessory like the Glove Holder, Paper Towel Holder, etc? I imagine this is YMMV but curious if anyone was able to get them to throw in a couple free items with the purchase of the box?

 

[Hawkins]

Just purchased the 72 inch US General Tool Box in Black. Was told it'd be in possibly on Monday! Wow thats quick!

 

[Mr_B]

BAM !
job jobbed
The black looks pretty smart and not cheap or tacky, it also easy match with accessories
Assume you used the current coupon ...
Have a good time on Monday

 

[Hawkins]

BAM !
job jobbed
The black looks pretty smart and not cheap or tacky, it also easy match with accessories
Assume you used the current coupon ...
Have a good time on Monday

Thanks of lot. Used the coupon for sure. HFQPDB is probably a bad thing for me (fun to check out previous pricing on items). Thanks a lot for the advice though! I'll probably pick up next Thursday or Friday because I'm off work and will have time to "play" with it.

 

[Mr_B]

I'd be off work Monday and probably all week lol .
One used box I bought wasted 2 days picking it up with plenty diner stops and a sleepover on way back and 2 more days cleaning it up, doing drawer liners and starting on a worktop .
Is a good choice for large home box and that coupon price makes it fair value.
1K on the used market don't buy you much 3 bay size easily or quickly .
Hope it goes smoothly and fits your needs and expectations ...

 

[ShedBuiltMS]

Have had my USG 72" box for 10 Years now as a diesel tech hasn,t failed me. Fitted it a few years back with an Extreme toolbox hutch. I'd add photos but don't have that capability yet lol

 

[Hawkins]

Well I got my box yesterday. As I've read, it arrived damage. Small dent in drawer. I called HF and they have no way of replacing a door -- they offered a discount or replacement. Being 550 lbs and needing a trailer to load it, I cant justify a replacement. Here's pic of damage. What would you all recommend -- I'll add being black, its a little harder to see?

Also, might be able to pound it out but don't want to damage powdercoat or anything. Any suggestions?

https://ibb.co/9HcyWmZ
[url]https://ibb.co/y0jPm3c[/url]
[url]https://ibb.co/yXSPzjB[/url]
https://ibb.co/SrFPsN5

 

[Mr_B]

see what they will do, if you get 100 bucks or deal on something else you want in store it might be worth living with .
You maybe able press it out slightly if had a clamp that could reach it .
I would consider emblem decall to cover it first or a kicker trim along bottom drawers and frame edge perhaps .
If rest of box passes your inspection you be wise make effort on a deal as be hassle replacing it and second one may not be perfect .
HF generally fairly good discounting but depends on your luck with the store manager . Make it look it's worst in any photos you show them and if not a decent discount push for more in a amicable manner .

 

[dagofast]

Oh man, that *****. I guess I was lucky, every bit of my US General stuff showed up in perfect condition. I was very concerned when one box was punctured but luckily, the chest inside it was fine.

I guess if you can't easily swap it out, going for the discount is your best and only option. Is the dent accessible from inside the drawer? You might be able to pop it back out with a dent removal tool.

 

[JP Chestnut]

Well I got my box yesterday. As I've read, it arrived damage. Small dent in drawer. I called HF and they have no way of replacing a door -- they offered a discount or replacement. Being 550 lbs and needing a trailer to load it, I cant justify a replacement. Here's pic of damage. What would you all recommend -- I'll add being black, its a little harder to see?

Also, might be able to pound it out but don't want to damage powdercoat or anything. Any suggestions?

https://ibb.co/9HcyWmZ
[url]https://ibb.co/y0jPm3c[/url]
[url]https://ibb.co/yXSPzjB[/url]
https://ibb.co/SrFPsN5

Checking at the store is a total PITA but it’s necessary to avoid stuff like this.

 

[dagofast]

Checking at the store is a total PITA but it’s necessary to avoid stuff like this.

True. The peeps at my local HF store were awesome, they helped me uncrate the 72" roller, inspect it and then used their forklift to lift it off the shipping pallet.

They even helped me roll it up the ramp door in to our enclosed trailer. The 26" & 44" chests were in boxes, but only the 26" box showed damage so I opened it while still at the store.

I still think the Hawkins drawer dent might be a fairly easy repair using paintless repair tools.

 

[Hawkins]

Well - they gave me $200. I happily accepted and didn't negotiate for me. It sits at the bottom and not very noticeable. If I can pound it out, I will but I don't want to crack the powder coat. Any suggestions

 

[Mr_B]

that decent discount, 799.99 is a cheap box lol .
I wouldn't hit it out as too much chance make it more noticeable as location right at that fold make it difficult and stress the finish .
Try making up a clamp and have some hard plastic on the contact points either side of dent and try squeeze it back into shape .

 

[JP Chestnut]

True. The peeps at my local HF store were awesome, they helped me uncrate the 72" roller, inspect it and then used their forklift to lift it off the shipping pallet.

They even helped me roll it up the ramp door in to our enclosed trailer. The 26" & 44" chests were in boxes, but only the 26" box showed damage so I opened it while still at the store.

I still think the Hawkins drawer dent might be a fairly easy repair using paintless repair tools.

My 26 had a perfect box and was out of square by two inches left to right, with drawers that rub. I stupidly didn’t check it at the store and now I have to hall it back to HF. The QC is **** but the strength of the construction is so much better than box store stuff.

 

[Hawkins]

that decent discount, 799.99 is a cheap box lol .
I wouldn't hit it out as too much chance make it more noticeable as location right at that fold make it difficult and stress the finish .
Try making up a clamp and have some hard plastic on the contact points either side of dent and try squeeze it back into shape .

I actually considered swapping out the drawer with a floor model depending on their discount. I believe this drawer is the same size on the 56 inch they offer and they have a black on the floor. But for $200 (yes a $800 box), plus the dent being on the very bottom drawer, I think I can live with it. I am sure it will get a little abuse anyways.

 

[Hawkins]

My 26 had a perfect box and was out of square by two inches left to right, with drawers that rub. I stupidly didn’t check it at the store and now I have to hall it back to HF. The QC is **** but the strength of the construction is so much better than box store stuff.

Yea I am diagnosing a slide rub on the large drawer on top (Socket drawer). What's best lube for the slides? White Lithium?

 

[JP Chestnut]

Yea I am diagnosing a slide rub on the large drawer on top (Socket drawer). What's best lube for the slides? White Lithium?

Are the rubs on the high corner on one side and the low corner on the other? If so, your box is leaning to one side. Sit it on level ground and attach a horizontal level to confirm.

My top drawer is two inches to the left of the bottom drawer. It’s very easy to see if you open both and the rubs were the first thing I noticed.

 

[Gummi Bear]

Congrats on the new box, Hawkins!

I’ve had a 72” box for 3 years now. I’ve added a 56” upper, a cabinet, and a set of auxiliary drawers. It’s pretty much full.

I am not a professional, and as much as I lusted after a USA made professional box, I simply could not justify it. Resale value is of no concern to me, as I plan to keep it forever.

I’m a home hobbyist: keep my family’s vehicles running, a tractor, a few quads, and several small engines. I like an occasional project car.

I’ve accumulated tools my whole life, and up until I got my big box, they were scattered all over creation. In toolboxes, buckets and totes. Working on stuff was really frustrating, since I spent so much time rummaging around looking for a tool. Maintenance is much less stressful, being organized has changed so much for me.



I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately...

Henry David Thoreau

 

[Hawkins]

Congrats on the new box, Hawkins!

I’ve had a 72” box for 3 years now. I’ve added a 56” upper, a cabinet, and a set of auxiliary drawers. It’s pretty much full.

I am not a professional, and as much as I lusted after a USA made professional box, I simply could not justify it. Resale value is of no concern to me, as I plan to keep it forever.

I’m a home hobbyist: keep my family’s vehicles running, a tractor, a few quads, and several small engines. I like an occasional project car.

I’ve accumulated tools my whole life, and up until I got my big box, they were scattered all over creation. In toolboxes, buckets and totes. Working on stuff was really frustrating, since I spent so much time rummaging around looking for a tool. Maintenance is much less stressful, being organized has changed so much for me.



I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately...

Henry David Thoreau

Thanks - I am same boat. Home hobbyist and maybe not even that. the level of organization is amazing now. I've been working on filling and organizing. It's great to have and for $800, I couldnt be happier!

 

[Hawkins]

Are the rubs on the high corner on one side and the low corner on the other? If so, your box is leaning to one side. Sit it on level ground and attach a horizontal level to confirm.

My top drawer is two inches to the left of the bottom drawer. It’s very easy to see if you open both and the rubs were the first thing I noticed.

The rub is only one one or two rails. The the largest/longest drawer which is the top drawer only on the left side. You know, I have a level sitting on top of it (4 ft level) and I failed to actually look to see if it's truly level. I just put it there because it didn't fit in the one drawer I wanted it to. Haha amazing that I've never even checked the bubbles. I'll look at it and report back!

 

[Bigdogboogie]

I stopped in HF today for a box of nitrile gloves and remembering this thread I wandered over to take a look at the US General boxes.

Pretty damn impressive! They've come a long way with their tool storage and I'm severely (Severely I say!) tempted to get a nice blue set-up to take the place of my aging Homak box and top.

 

[nadogail]

My Harbor Freight tool box looks good in my workshop, it will probably not be moved until my heirs wonder what to do with it.

 

[VtecGSR95]

One thing to note about the Menard's Masterforce boxes.....

I had a 41" top/bottom with side cabinet. I was going to sell and upgrade to the new 56" version when Masterforce added the 24" depth, and the power strips, plus I was overflowing out of my 41"! I was also disappointed in the old style latch system, which just had internal detentes, and would pop open at any time.

I listed the box on FB marketplace, and had a guy make an offer......but then rescind the offer, and explain that I could trade the box in at Menard's due to the latch issues. I was unclear, but he stated he used to work there, and Menard's guarantees the Masterforce boxes for life, for issues or simply customer satisfaction! So I called Menard's, explained I had this box for several years, and was going to upgrade to the newer style due to the size and updated latch. He explained they WOULD in fact give me credit on the equivalent box setup I had, but it would be the lowest selling price from the last 90 days.....BUT the current box pricing!! So long story short, I got almost $1300 back towards the NEW 56" top/bottom/side cabinet, AND I got the 11% rebate on top of the $1800.00 transaction of the new box! So realistically, it cost me 300 bucks to upgrade after several years......so as far as I'm concerned, I'm pretty loyal to them for everything they've done, and their boxes have served me well as a part time technician!

Harbor freight has some nice stiff, and the new line they're selling is even nicer looking, but I am totally happy with my Masterforce.