HDX 38 gallon (144 L) tote rack plans
A 2x4 ladder rack sized for HDX 38 gallon (144 L) Tough Totes. Each tote slides in on two runners and hangs by its lid, so you can pull out any tote without moving the others. Pick how many across and how high, and get a cut list, shopping list and step-by-step plan for your exact layout.
Designing is free. The PDF plan is $9.99, one-time payment.
Popular 38 gallon (144 L) tote rack sizes
2 × 2 · Compact, against a wall
4 totes · 4' 3-3/4" × 3' 4-1/2"
10 boards · ~$81
3 × 2 · Rolling workbench
6 totes · 6' 4-7/8" × 3' 10-1/4"
11 boards · ~$273
4 × 2 · Long rolling workbench
8 totes · 8' 6" × 3' 10-1/4"
13 boards · ~$350
3 × 3 · Garage wall, 3 high
9 totes · 6' 4-7/8" × 4' 11"
18 boards · ~$120
4 × 4 · Full wall, 4 high
16 totes · 8' 6" × 6' 5-1/2"
17 boards · ~$183
Tote dimensions the plan uses
Measured with the lid on, at the widest point. Tote sizes vary a little between production runs, so measure one of yours before cutting.
- Length
- 32" (813 mm)
- Width
- 21-7/8" (556 mm)
- Height
- 17-1/2" (445 mm)
- Capacity
- 38 gal (144 L)
How the rack is built
- Legs, runners and rails: 2x4 (38 × 89 mm), runners on edge.
- Runners spaced for 38 gallon totes; the plan gives you the exact marks and a spacer block.
- Ladders joined by rails, plus bottom cross pieces where the casters go.
- Diagonal 1x4 braces on the back of rolling racks.
HDX 38 gallon (144 L) tote rack FAQ
What lumber do I need for an HDX 38 gallon tote rack?
We recommend 2x4 (38 × 89 mm) for the legs, runners and rails. A 2-wide, 2-high rolling rack with a plywood top uses 10 × 2x4 × 8 ft, 1 × 1x4 × 6 ft.
How big is a 38 gallon tote rack?
A 2-wide, 2-high rolling rack with a plywood top is 4' 3-3/4" wide, 32" deep and 3' 10-1/4" tall. The configurator shows the finished size for any layout.
Can a 38 gallon tote rack go on wheels?
Yes. Choose freestanding and the plan adds locking casters under the base and diagonal braces on the back so the rack stays square when you roll it. Wall-mounted racks sit on the floor and screw into the studs instead.
How much does a 38 gallon tote rack cost to build?
About $193 in lumber and hardware for a 2-wide, 2-high rolling rack with a plywood top (4' 3-3/4" wide), at typical big-box store prices. The configurator prices your exact layout.