This project was built and designed by Stan Sullivan from Simply Easy DIY. It’s a rolling storage cart built to hold stackable bins, offering a flexible, efficient solution for workshop clutter.
The design focuses on maximizing space while staying easy to build, using common lumber and shop-friendly tools. Whether you’re dealing with scattered materials or just want better mobility in your shop, this cart offers a smart, low-cost upgrade.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Stan’s channel:
A Simple Solution for a Common Problem
Many woodworkers know the pain of a cluttered workspace—one side might be pristine, while the other is buried in tools and supplies. Stan wanted a solution that not only organized his bins but made it easy to move them wherever they were needed.
This project does just that. The mobile cart is sized for specific store-bought storage bins, allowing users to keep items grouped and accessible without taking up too much floor space.
Materials and Tools Overview
The build uses 2×4 and 1×4 lumber, most of which is cut and ripped to maximize yield. There’s no need for expensive materials, and Stan emphasizes using offcuts and scrap where possible to reduce waste.
Tools used include a miter saw or circular saw, a drill, wood glue, and optionally a table saw for fine adjustments. Four-inch casters provide the mobility that makes the project so convenient once assembled.
Building the Frame
Stan begins by breaking down 2x4s into narrower pieces, ripping them down to 1½-inch-wide boards. This allows for better material use and leaves behind quarter-inch strips that can be repurposed for future builds.
Each side of the cart is framed independently, forming a rigid structure where slats and rails can later be mounted. Glue and nails help hold the pieces in place as the frames are assembled flush with the bottom rails.
Adding Storage Slats
The slats, which support the storage bins, are cut from 1×4 boards. They’re mounted across the interior width of the frame, spaced to match the height and fit of each bin.
Stan points out that dimensional lumber can vary, so he recommends checking the actual width of your 1x4s. If they’re too wide to fit properly, a quick trim on the table saw solves the issue and ensures a snug, gap-free fit.
Accounting for Humidity and Fit
Stan builds his projects in Florida, so humidity is a real concern. He notes that letting wood acclimate before final assembly helps prevent warping or shifting after the build is complete.
It’s a good tip no matter where you’re working—climate can affect how tightly pieces fit, and taking the time to let boards stabilize can save frustration down the line.
Adding Casters for Mobility
To make the cart truly functional, Stan adds four heavy-duty casters to the base. These allow the entire unit to roll smoothly across shop floors, making it easy to bring tools or materials directly to the workspace.
Using mobile storage like this keeps frequently used items within reach and helps avoid wasting time walking back and forth across the shop.
Installing Rails for Sliding Bins
The rails that hold the bins are also cut from 1x4s and attached inside the frame. They’re placed carefully to match the size and depth of the bins, allowing them to slide in and out with ease.
Stan suggests setting screws slightly below the surface to avoid interference with the bins themselves. This also helps keep the movement smooth and protects the contents from damage.
Custom Fit and Future Options
This cart is designed to fit the specific bins Stan already had in his shop, making it a great example of customizing your build to fit your tools and storage needs. He also hints at an upcoming video where he’ll show how to build the bins from scratch—another cost-saving option.
The flexibility of this design means it can be scaled up or down depending on your available space. Whether you need a tall, narrow cart or a wider version with more bins, the framework is easy to adapt.
Final Touches and Finishing
Once assembled, the cart can be painted or sealed for protection. A quick coat of paint or varnish helps improve durability and gives the piece a clean, finished look in the workshop.
Stan doesn’t overcomplicate the finishing process—he keeps it functional and straightforward, encouraging woodworkers to get the job done without unnecessary delays.
A Smart Shop Upgrade
This roll-around cart is more than just a storage unit—it’s a workshop upgrade that adds convenience, efficiency, and order. By focusing on simple construction and flexible sizing, Stan shows how even a utility project can be built with care.
It’s a great way to repurpose leftover lumber, reduce clutter, and build something that improves how you work every day.
Get Stan’s Plans here: https://www.simplyeasydiy.com/2015/05/roll-around-storage-bin-cart.html.