Snap-on is a leading manufacturer of high-quality professional tools and equipment for automotive technicians and other trade professionals. Snap-on tool chests are considered to be some of the best tool storage solutions available thanks to their durability, security features and thoughtful design. But who actually makes Snap-on tool chests?
Snap-on Manufacturing Facilities
Snap-on has manufacturing facilities located across the United States and around the world. The company operates roughly 30 manufacturing facilities globally. Some of Snap-on’s key manufacturing sites include:
- Algona, Iowa – Manufactures tool storage units, including roll cab cabinets and tool chests
- Murphy, North Carolina – Produces tool storage products including tool chests
- Conway, Arkansas – Manufactures professional tool storage units and boxes
- Olive Branch, Mississippi – Produces tool storage products
- Elkmont, Alabama – Manufactures tool storage products
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Headquarters and original factory, some tool storage production
Many of Snap-on’s US-based manufacturing facilities play a role in producing the company’s tool chests, cabinets, carts and other storage products. The facilities in Algona, Murphy, Conway, Olive Branch and Elkmont are primarily dedicated to manufacturing tool storage solutions. Between these plants, Snap-on has the capacity to produce thousands of tool chests per day to meet demand.
Quality Manufacturing Processes
Snap-on uses state-of-the-art processes and equipment at its American factories to produce professional-grade tool storage products. Some of the techniques and machines used include:
- Laser cutting – Precisely cuts steel and other metals
- Robotic welding – Automates welds for consistency
- Powder coating – Durable, chip-resistant finish
- Injection molding – Efficiently forms storage unit components
- CNC machining – Automates precision manufacturing
By using automated, computer-controlled manufacturing methods, Snap-on is able to maintain extremely high quality standards for its tool chests and cabinets. The products are engineered for flawless fit and finish.
Quality Control and Testing
In addition to advanced manufacturing techniques, Snap-on also subjects tool storage units to rigorous quality control procedures and testing:
- Every weld on a unit is visually examined
- Dimensional inspections confirm units are within specifications
- Finish is checked to ensure proper coating
- Door alignments are tested for smooth opening/closing
- Locking mechanisms are tested over thousands of cycles
- Load capacity is verified through weight testing
- Salt spray chamber testing checks corrosion resistance
- Lock testing against break-ins
Snap-on’s extensive quality control and performance testing ensure that only the best storage products make it to market under the Snap-on brand. This reflects their reputation for making the most rugged and reliable tool storage solutions available.
Materials Used in Manufacturing
Snap-on tool chests and cabinets are constructed from heavy-duty steel for maximum durability. Here are some of the materials commonly used:
- Cold rolled steel – Structural panels and components
- Stainless steel – Handles, doors and trim
- Aluminum – Select doors and panels
- Zinc – Plating/coating for weather resistance
- Plastic polymers – Lids, trays and other components
The all-steel construction provides the strength needed to protect valuable tools, while plastic components make the units lightweight and easy to maneuver. The materials withstand harsh shop environments and provide long service life.
Design and Engineering
Snap-on tool storage products are designed and engineered at the company’s headquarters in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The in-house Industrial Design team uses 3D modeling software and other advanced tools to design storage units.
Some of the design considerations include:
- Ergonomics – Making units easy and comfortable to use
- Layout – Optimizing space for storage
- Accessibility – Quick access to tools
- Mobility – Easy to move and reposition
- Durability – Withstand shop conditions
- Security – Locking and anti-theft features
- Customization – Modular additions and accessories
Extensive engineering goes into turning the designs into manufacturable and functional products. Snap-on relies on decades of expertise to create storage solutions designed specifically for professional shops and garages.
Snap-on Brand History
Snap-on tool chests carry on the Snap-on tradition of quality that dates back over 100 years. Here are some key milestones from Snap-on’s history:
- 1920 – Snap-on is founded and begins making hand tools
- 1930s – Expands into ratchets, wrenches and diagnostic equipment
- 1950s – Introduces mobile tool vans for direct sales to shops
- 1960s – Launches tool storage line starting with roll cabs
- 1980s – Begins manufacturing larger tool chests and cabinets
- 2000s – Continues innovation with digital and smart storage features
- Today – Full range of storage products made in America
Snap-on has been the leader in tool storage manufacturing for decades. Generations of technicians have relied on Snap-on’s iconic tool boxes and chests to organize their tools and accessories. The Snap-on brand represents the pinnacle of quality in tool storage for automotive professionals.
Conclusion
In summary, Snap-on tool chests are proudly made at the company’s American manufacturing facilities. Their tool chests are engineered and produced using state-of-the-art machinery and extensive quality control testing. The signature Snap-on quality ensures the storage products meet the needs of demanding professional automotive technicians for organizing tools and equipment. Snap-on has been innovating and perfecting tool storage solutions for over 50 years, maintaining their reputation as the premier brand.
Snap-on Manufacturing Facility | Location | Products Made |
---|---|---|
Algona, Iowa | Algona, IA | Tool storage including chests |
Murphy, North Carolina | Murphy, NC | Tool storage including chests |
Conway, Arkansas | Conway, AR | Tool storage including chests |
Olive Branch, Mississippi | Olive Branch, MS | Tool storage including chests |
Elkmont, Alabama | Elkmont, AL | Tool storage including chests |