Makita Redefines Modular Storage Systems with MakTrak
Entering an established and competitive market, Makita has launched the new MakTrak modular storage system.
Designed, engineered and made in the U.S. with global materials, Makita says the new MakTrak is the next generation in modular storage systems. |
Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the U.S. with global materials, MakTrak has a range of unique features including a horizontal design that redefines the storage category.
Austin Donoghue, senior product manager, accessories, Makita U.S.A., Inc., noted that entering the modular storage market gave the company the opportunity to work with contractors to identify gaps with current competitive systems.
“When committing to a modular storage system, a user is looking to harmonize the transportation, access, storage and organization of their jobsite equipment,” he said. “Despite the many options of vertical stacking toolboxes, there are pain points across the board that led us to flip the game on its side and create the new MakTrak modular storage system with a clear point of difference, a horizontal rolling base.”
Users across the country shared the challenges with Makita about vertical-first design-based modular storage systems currently in the market.
“Driven by this clear user feedback, we designed and engineered a horizontal-first design-based modular storage system that addresses their challenges and brings to market a product range that we believe is a transformative solution that creates tremendous user value.,” said Andrew Camp, director of product management, accessories, Makita U.S.A., Inc. “Researched, designed, engineered, and manufactured in the U.S., MakTrak is the next generation in modular storage.”
The MakTrak launch is backed by an interactive website that allows users to select and stack MakTrak elements on-screen, see their selection in a 3-D view application, and more: makitatools.com/MakTrak
The design of the MakTrak modular storage system is driven by four core functions:
- Transport: Premium handle with Gecko Grips provides efficient loading and unloading.
- Access: Horizontal dual-hinging lid allows access to any case without unstacking or interference from the handle.
- Store: Horizontal design provides wider interior space for larger tools and accessories.
- Organize: Customizable with lid mounting points, molle panel dividers, nested bins and battery/charger storage trays.
Constructed of impact-resistant resins, the system is built to withstand tough jobsite conditions and features large glove-friendly latches for easy access.
More Convenience, More Efficiency
Transportation is a primary function of a modular storage system. MakTrak has 9-inch all terrain job site rugged wheels for easy movement, whether it’s through a job site or across finished flooring. And the intentional horizontal box design combined with the unique handle design that retracts enables a single user to load and unload their MakTrak into a truck bed.
Listening to contractors, Makita developed MakTrak as a horitonally-based modular storage system. |
“Difficulty loading and unloading into the truck bed is a common frustration with vertical base systems,” Donoghue said. “Users frequently dismantle their systems to load each unit separately. Leaving the toolboxes scattered takes more space and makes it difficult to work from the truck.”
Handle grips on the MakTrak allows contractors to load and unload the boxes without disconnecting them. In addition, depending on the stacking configuration it will fit under most truck bed covers for added security.
“Whether working from the truck or traveling from shop to jobsite, MakTrak transforms the pick-up truck into a tool of the trade,” he said.
MakTrak also gives users more convenience with the ability to open storage boxes without unstacking. The dual-hinging lids allow access from both sides, and the innovative horizontal design means the handle won’t get in the way.
Donoghue said MakTrak gives users the ability to open storage boxes and get tools and accessories without unstacking. The dual-hinging lids allow access from both sides, and the horizontal design means the handle won’t get in the way.
In addition, the horizontal design yields more storage space and the ability to accommodate larger tools like nailers, saws and rotary hammers while improving accessibility with shallow depth.
Donoghue also pointed out the side-to-side interlocking connection which allows attachment from either direction.
“This connection system combined with the variety of toolbox sizes gives users multiple stacking configurations,” he said.
Interior organization components for the system include molle panel dividers as well as battery storage tool trays and a lid that includes mounting points for optional dividers, bins, bit sets and more for additional storage. These organization features give users maximum flexibility to configure their own modular storage system.
Components available for the MakTrak system includes the following, with more organizational tools and parts expected in the future:
- Rolling Tool Chest (T-90009): The foundation of the MakTrak system is equipped with twin 9” all-terrain wheels. The unique horizontal design combines a holding capacity of 5,000 cu.in. and up to 250 lbs. capacity with easy accessibility and the retractable handle which enables easy loading and unloading into a truck bed.
- Large Toolbox (T-90015): Ideal for storing and transporting larger tools like framing nailers, saws, and rotary hammers. Includes cavity divider slots to partition toolbox space. It has a holding capacity of 3,854 cu.in. and up to 100 lbs.
- Extra Large Extension Toolbox (T-90021): Provides added capacity for larger tools. The Extra-Large Extension Toolbox can be stacked on the track system or cleat mounted to the front of the Rolling Tool Chest. It has a holding capacity of 3,569 cu.in. and up to 100 lbs.
- Medium Toolbox (T-90037): The Medium Toolbox can be stacked for added capacity. Includes deep interior trays for hand tool storage and shallow trays with integrated dividers for small parts. It has a holding capacity of 1,123 cu.in. and up to 75 lbs.
- Deep Medium Organizer (T-90043), Low Profile Medium Organizer (T-90059), Deep Compact Organizer (T-90065): Three additional storage organizers offer extensive organization for fasteners, parts and accessories. Each features a clear lid to easily see contents inside.
- Optional Accessories: Users can customize their MakTrak system with molle panel dividers to create convenient on-lid storage, upper bin and divider sets are also available to expand their Deep Organizers’ storage capabilities, and with additional storage trays functionally designed to fit Makita chargers and batteries.
Makita says it is redefining the modular storage system category with MakTrack's horizontal design that enables easier access, superior loading and unloading into a truck bed, and more. |