Bin Storage Systems

About Bin Storage Systems

Bin storage systems are essential organisational solutions designed to keep workshops, vans, garages, and industrial spaces tidy and efficient. These versatile storage solutions consist of stackable or wall-mounted bins, often supplied with accompanying panels, racks, or mobile units that transform cluttered workspaces into highly organised environments. Whether you're managing hundreds of small fixings, components, or consumables, bin storage systems provide immediate visibility and access to the items you need, dramatically reducing time wasted searching for parts and hardware.

Modern bin storage systems come in various configurations, from compact wall-mounted panels with a dozen small bins to comprehensive mobile racking units featuring 30 or more compartments of varying sizes. Leading manufacturers like Sealey, Faithfull, Draper, and DeWalt have developed robust plastic storage bins that can withstand the demands of busy trade environments whilst maintaining their structural integrity. Many systems feature modular designs, allowing you to expand your storage capacity as your inventory grows, with interlocking bins and compatible louvre panels that create flexible, customisable storage solutions.

The choice between wall-mounted, mobile, or bench-top bin storage systems depends on your specific workspace requirements. Wall-mounted systems maximise floor space and are ideal for permanent workshop installations, whilst mobile units on castors provide flexibility for those who need to move their storage around the workshop or between job sites. Premium systems from brands like Armorgard offer heavy-duty construction suitable for demanding industrial applications, whilst more compact solutions from Raaco and Faithfull suit smaller workshops or van storage applications.

Jargon Buster

• Louvre Panel: A specially designed wall panel featuring horizontal slats or slots that securely hold storage bins at various positions. Louvre panels allow bins to be repositioned easily to accommodate changing storage needs and are typically made from robust steel or impact-resistant plastic.
• Interlocking Bins: Storage bins designed with special edges or features that allow them to connect securely to adjacent bins, preventing sliding or separation when stacked. This design creates stable storage towers without requiring additional mounting hardware.
• Mobile Bin Rack: A freestanding storage unit mounted on castors or wheels, featuring multiple bins that can be moved around the workshop. Often includes lockable wheels for stability when stationary and may incorporate different bin sizes on a single frame.
• Stackable Storage Bins: Individual bins designed with nesting or stacking features that allow them to be built vertically whilst maintaining stability. These typically feature reinforced rims and compatible dimensions across the range.
• Picking Face: The open front area of a storage bin where items are accessed. Bins with large picking faces provide easier access to contents, particularly important when wearing work gloves or when bins are positioned at height.
• Bin Dividers: Optional accessories that segment the interior space of larger bins into smaller compartments, preventing different items from mixing and maintaining organisation within individual bins.

Who Uses Bin Storage Systems?

Bin storage systems are invaluable across numerous trades and industries:

• Electricians: For organising cable clips, terminal blocks, connectors, and various electrical fittings by size and type
• Plumbers: Managing washers, O-rings, compression fittings, and pipe clips in easily accessible compartments
• Mechanics and Vehicle Technicians: Storing nuts, bolts, clips, and automotive fasteners systematically
• Carpenters and Joiners: Organising screws, nails, hinges, brackets, and ironmongery by specification
• Maintenance Engineers: Keeping spare parts, fixings, and components organised for efficient servicing
• Manufacturing and Assembly Operations: Managing production components and consumables on the factory floor
• Electronics and IT Professionals: Storing connectors, adapters, cable ties, and small electronic components
• Locksmiths: Organising pins, springs, cylinders, and small hardware items
• Hobbyists and DIY Enthusiasts: Maintaining an organised home workshop or garage space

How to Choose the Right Bin Storage Systems

Selecting the appropriate bin storage system requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure it meets your specific organisational needs:

Assess Your Storage Capacity Requirements: Calculate the quantity and variety of items you need to store. Count how many different types of fixings, components, or consumables you regularly use. Systems range from modest 12-piece sets suitable for light use to comprehensive 43-piece configurations for extensive inventories. It's generally wise to allow for future expansion when selecting capacity.

Consider Your Workspace Layout: Wall-mounted systems are ideal when floor space is limited and you have available vertical wall area. Mobile bin racks suit workshops where flexibility is important or where storage needs to be repositioned regularly. Bench-top units work well in compact spaces or as supplementary storage alongside existing systems.

Evaluate Bin Sizes and Configuration: Different trades have different needs. Electricians might require numerous small bins for various terminal sizes, whilst mechanics may need larger bins for bulkier components. Look for systems offering mixed bin sizes or the flexibility to add different sized bins to the same mounting system. Check that bin openings are large enough for gloved hands if you typically wear PPE.

Material Quality and Durability: Professional-grade plastic bins should be manufactured from impact-resistant polypropylene or similar materials that won't crack under workshop conditions. Check that wall panels are sufficiently robust – steel louvre panels offer superior strength for heavy-duty applications, whilst plastic panels may suffice for lighter components. Brands like Sealey and Draper are known for producing durable systems that withstand daily workshop use.

Mobility Requirements: If you need to move your storage system regularly, prioritise mobile units with robust castors. Ensure at least two wheels feature brakes for stability when stationary. Consider whether the unit needs to fit through doorways or into vans if you transport it between sites.

Visibility and Accessibility: Transparent or semi-transparent bins allow you to identify contents at a glance, saving time when searching for specific items. Bins with generous picking faces and angled positioning provide easier access than deeply recessed designs. Label holders or writable surfaces help maintain organisation over time.

Expandability: Modular systems that accept additional panels or bins offer better long-term value. Check whether replacement bins are readily available and whether you can add to the system as your storage needs grow.

Popular Accessories

Enhance your bin storage system with these complementary products:

• Additional Louvre Panels: Expand wall-mounted systems by adding extra panels to accommodate more bins
• Replacement Bins: Individual bins in various sizes to customise your existing system or replace damaged units
• Bin Dividers: Subdivide larger bins into compartments for improved organisation of similar items
• Label Holders and Tags: Clearly identify bin contents for faster retrieval, especially useful in shared workshops
• Mobile Base Units: Convert stationary bin racks into mobile solutions with castor-equipped bases
• Protective Covers: Keep dust and debris out of bins in particularly dirty workshop environments
• Small Parts Organisers: Complement bin systems with portable organisers for items taken to job sites
• Tool Panels and Hooks: Install alongside bin systems to create comprehensive wall storage solutions
• Workshop Lighting: Improve visibility of bin contents with task lighting positioned near storage areas

Frequently Asked Questions

Can bin storage systems be used outdoors or in vans?

Most plastic bin storage systems are suitable for use in covered vans and sheltered outdoor locations, as they're manufactured from weather-resistant materials. However, continuous exposure to direct sunlight may cause UV degradation over time, potentially making plastics brittle. For permanent outdoor installations, consider systems specifically designed for external use or those from ranges like Armorgard that offer enhanced durability. In vans, secure wall-mounted panels properly to vehicle walls and ensure mobile units are adequately restrained during transit to prevent movement.

How much weight can individual storage bins typically hold?

Load capacity varies considerably depending on bin size and construction quality. Small plastic bins from professional ranges typically support 2-5kg safely, whilst larger bins may handle 5-15kg. However, the critical factor is often the mounting system rather than the bin itself – ensure wall panels are securely fixed to solid walls using appropriate fixings, particularly when storing heavy metal components. Always distribute weight evenly across multiple bins rather than overloading individual compartments, and check manufacturer specifications for precise load ratings.

Are bin storage systems compatible across different brands?

Unfortunately, there's limited standardisation across manufacturers. Bins from Sealey systems typically won't fit Faithfull or Draper louvre panels due to different slot spacing and bin mounting designs. Each manufacturer generally uses proprietary dimensions and attachment mechanisms. If you plan to expand your system, it's advisable to stick with the same brand and product range. Some brands offer extensive ecosystems with multiple compatible products, making future expansion straightforward.

What's the best way to organise fixings and fasteners in bin storage systems?

The most effective approach organises items by type and size together. For screws, dedicate bins to specific lengths and head types (e.g., M6 x 40mm countersunk, M8 x 50mm hex head). Use smaller bins for less frequently used items and larger bins for high-turnover stock. Label every bin clearly, and consider implementing a colour-coding system for different categories (red for electrical, blue for plumbing, etc.). Position frequently accessed items at convenient heights – typically between waist and shoulder level – to minimise bending or stretching.

How do I securely mount wall-based bin storage systems?

Proper installation is crucial for safety and longevity. Wall panels must be fixed to solid masonry, blockwork, or substantial timber framing – never to plasterboard alone. Use appropriate wall plugs and screws for your wall type, ensuring fixings are rated for the total loaded weight of the system. Space fixings according to manufacturer recommendations, typically at 400-600mm centres. For particularly heavy-duty applications, consider fixing horizontal battens to the wall first, then mounting panels to the battens for enhanced load distribution. Always use a spirit level during installation to ensure panels are perfectly horizontal, preventing bins from sliding off mounts.