At US General®, we believe that high-quality tools and storage solutions should be accessible to every hardworking American. For over 20 years, we have been committed to providing professional-grade toolboxes, chests, cabinets, and accessories at prices that won’t break the bank.
Our Story
It all started in a small Los Angeles garage in 1998. Our founder, John Smith, was an avid DIYer and car enthusiast who was frustrated by the lack of affordable options when it came to storing his ever-growing collection of tools. The products on the market were either flimsy and cheap or incredibly expensive pro-grade boxes that were out of reach for the average consumer.
John decided to take matters into his own hands. Using his background in engineering, he began tinkering with designs after work and on weekends. After months of prototypes and revisions, he finally landed on a heavy-duty toolbox design that blended durability, security, and accessibility at a reasonable price.
When he began showing his creation to others, the response was overwhelming. It turned out there was a huge unmet need for high-quality, affordable tool storage solutions. With the support and encouragement of his family, John took the leap and officially launched US General® in 2001.
The brand rapidly gained a reputation for offering pro-level toolboxes and cabinets at unbeatable prices. We cut out the middleman and passed the savings directly on to hardworking customers. Word spread quickly among automotive enthusiasts, trade workers, and hobbyists. As demand grew, we expanded our catalog to include a wide array of storage combinations, accessories, and customization options.
Today, US General® operates a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility while still maintaining our headquarters and garage origins in Los Angeles. John Smith remains actively involved in product design and quality control. After two decades, we remain fiercely dedicated to our mission of delivering professional quality at affordable prices. We are proud to equip home mechanics, tradesmen, and industrial workers across America with the reliable, rugged storage their demanding jobs require.
Our Values
We live by a few core values that have guided us from the very beginning:
- Reliability – Our tool storage solutions are engineered for durability, security, and longevity. We stand behind the craftsmanship and quality that goes into every product.
- Affordability – The high cost of professional tool storage has been a pain point for too long. We are committed to breaking that barrier and empowering every worker with pro-level gear.
- Simplicity – Our products provide smart storage solutions without needless complexity. We embrace minimalist, functional designs that make accessing tools easy.
- Community – Our customers are our community. We value feedback, ideas, and building genuine relationships with those we serve.
Why Choose Us?
When you choose US General® for your tool storage needs, you get a lot more than a toolbox. You get all the makings of a premium solution without the outrageous price tag.
Durable Construction
Every toolbox, cabinet, and chest we produce is crafted from industrial-quality materials to withstand even the toughest garage and shop environments. Key features include:
- Thick steel construction – Our boxes are made from 16, 18, and 22 gauge steel, far thicker and studier than the thin metal used by many competitors.
- Full arc welds – We use strong, full arc welds on every seam instead of lower-quality spot welding. This creates superior strength and durability.
- Powder coated finishes – Our finishes are applied using an advanced powder coating process. This provides a hard, chip-resistant surface that stands up to heavy use.
- Heavy-duty casters – Rugged casters allow you to easily move loaded boxes and cabinets. We use wide-stance casters rated for weight capacities up to 5,000 lbs.
Superior Storage Organization
Our storage solutions are intelligently engineered for maximum organization and accessibility:
- Spacious drawers – From shallow small parts drawers to full-width rolling drawers, our compartments provide ample organized room for all your tools and gear.
- Adjustable shelving – Many of our products feature height-adjustable shelving to accommodate large power tools, parts boxes, or supplies.
- Integrated power strips – Built-in power strips with multiple outlets and USB ports make charging cordless tools a breeze.
- Lockable storage – Protect your expensive gear with cabinet doors and drawers that lock with a secure master lock and key.
Rugged Customization Options
Build your dream workspace with our wide range of customization offerings:
- Interchangeable work surfaces – Choose from wood, stainless steel, butcher block, or specialty tops to create the ideal work area for your needs.
- Add-on storage – Expand your storage with matching side cabinets,Add-on storage – Expand your storage with matching side cabinets, overhead hutches, and locker units.
- Premium casters – Upgrade to all-terrain wheels or hidden casters for a seamless, built-in look.
- Badging & engraving – Make it your own with custom badging and engraved nameplates.
- Vivid powder coats – Choose from a rainbow of durable finish options like bright reds, electric blues, gloss blacks, or vibrant oranges.
Unbeatable Value
With US General®, you never have to compromise between quality and affordability. We provide premium features at every price point:
- Budget-friendly basics – Our entry-level Series 1 starts at just $199 for a solid 34″ toolbox with locking casters and gas struts.
- Pro storage on a budget – The heavy-duty Series 2 line offers pro-level durability at just $399 for a loaded 56″ cabinet with drawers, top chest, and accessories.
- Commercial-grade quality – Our top-of-the-line Series 3 delivers sturdy all-steel construction and industrial-strength features at thousands less than comparable offerings.
- Warranty protection – We stand behind every product with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty as well as hassle-free returns within 90 days of purchase.
Serving Customers Nationwide
In addition to direct online sales, US General® products are carried by a wide range of retailers across the country:
- Independent specialty stores – We supply quality toolboxes and chests to small business owners including repair shops, custom garages, mechanic shops, and distribution centers.
- National auto parts chains – Leading auto parts retailers such as AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts carry our full line of products.
- Farming and ranch suppliers– Tractor Supply Company, Orscheln Farm and Home, and Atwoods Ranch and Home proudly offer our tool storage solutions optimized for agricultural use.
- Hardware stores– Both neighborhood-owned and national hardware stores such as Ace Hardware and True Value stock US General® solutions.
We are honored to equip backyard tinkerers, tradesmen, farmers, and professional mechanics across America with the high-performance, affordable tool storage they need to securely organize their livelihood.
Giving Back to the Community
At US General®, we believe in giving back by supporting the communities we serve. Here are some of the ways we act on that belief:
- Technical school partnerships – We regularly donate tool storage units to trade schools and technical colleges across the country to help the next generation of workers get started off right.
- Support for veterans – We are passionate about hiring veterans and active service members. We also donate storage solutions to veterans’ organizations and transition programs.
- Local nonprofit support – Our corporate office and local employees regularly contribute time and storage donations to community charities including food banks, children’s hospitals, homeless shelters, and more.
- Industry advancement – We partner with trade organizations and associations such as ASE to advance best practices in the automotive industry.
- First responder support – We offer special discounts for first responders including police, fire, EMTs, and paramedics as a thank you for their service.
No matter how large we grow, we remain committed to empowering our local communities. We believe that when you support American workers, you support the heart and soul of America.
What the Future Holds
As we embark on our third decade as a company, the future looks bright for US General®. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
- Exciting new products – We are hard at work designing innovative new storage solutions for specialty applications including ATVs, welding equipment, tire service, metal fabrication, and more.
- Expanded mobile access – We are enhancing our mobile features and app to make shopping our products and managing your storage even easier from anywhere.
- New manufacturing technologies – We continuously test and implement advanced manufacturing methods that improve quality and environmental sustainability.
- Customer-inspired innovations – Our best new product ideas come directly from our customers. We eagerly encourage feedback and reviews to drive improvements.
- Enhanced customization – Look for expanded customization offerings and modular system add-ons that make our storage solutions more configurable than ever before.
US General® has come a long way from that single toolbox design in John Smith’s tiny garage. But our commitment to serving American workers with high-quality, affordable storage remains as strong as ever. We can’t wait to see what the next 20 years brings!
Ready to Upgrade Your Storage?
If you’re ready to get your tools and gear organized with premium-quality storage at unbeatable prices, we are here to help. Browse our website to check out all our latest products. Or give us a call if you have any questions – we love talking tools and storage!
For special offers and exclusive deals, be sure to join our mailing list. And thank you for considering US General® – where professional quality meets everyday affordability. Now let’s get your garage, shop, or job site organized!
