A man in a hard hat and safety vest uses a screwdriver on a piece of machinery, plus various hand tools also pictured

8 Must-Have Hand Tools for Your Business

No matter what industry you’re in, these essential hand tools for businesses can save yours from headaches and costly hiccups.

Employee Spotlight: Jasmine Garcia, Customer Service Supervisor Reading 8 Must-Have Hand Tools for Your Business 4 minutes

If you run a business, you know the importance of having the right tools on hand for whatever life throws your way. And if you don’t? Well, this one's for you. From maintenance tasks to day-to-day repairs, there are some must-have hand tools every business needs to maintain productivity and keep operations running smoothly.

Stay prepared and avoid costly interruptions with these essential hand tools for businesses.

1. Adjustable Wrench 

An adjustable wrench is one of the most versatile tools you can have. With an adjustable jaw designed to accommodate bolts and fasteners of various sizes, a good adjustable wrench can eliminate the need for a full set of fixed wrenches. Keep it simple with a durable, rust-resistant chrome finish, or opt for a slip-resistant comfort grip. An adjustable wrench is critical for basic plumbing repairs, furniture assembly and quick fixes around the shop. 

2. Hammer 

No toolkit is complete without a hammer. A 16oz curved claw hammer, in particular, is the perfect universal choice for tackling basic tasks. Putting together a table or hanging signage? The hammer head is ideal for driving nails with precision. Need to remove nails or open crates? Flip the hammer around and utilize its claw end for leverage. 

3. Utility Knife 

A sharp and reliable utility knife is an indispensable tool for cutting through boxes, shipping materials and packaging. For added safety and convenience, look for features such as an auto-retractable blade, comfort grip and/or storage for replacement blades. A simple box cutter with a replaceable blade can get the job done, too, if you’re looking for a more straightforward, cost-effective solution. 

4. Pliers 

Having the right pair of pliers can help simplify a number of tasks. Two types in particular are essential adds to your business’ tool collection. Versatile slip joint pliers feature a pivot-point jaw that allows you to grip objects of various shapes and sizes. Needle-nose pliers, meanwhile, are long and thin, making them ideal for delicate tasks in tight, hard-to-reach spaces, such as working inside an electrical box. 

5. Screwdrivers 

At the very least, every business needs a Phillips screwdriver for tackling cross-head screws and a slotted screwdriver for taking on flathead screws. Choose a comfort grip handle for a more ergonomic hold or go with an acetate handle for supreme durability (and a more old-school feel). A reliable screwdriver is vital for assembly, maintenance and small-scale repairs across all industries. 

6. Scissors 

A durable pair of industrial scissors has blades that are sharp enough to cut through tough materials with ease, making them far more efficient than your standard office scissors. You'll want an ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip during extended use, such as unpacking a large shipment order. A dependable pair of scissors is key for manufacturing, packaging and maintenance departments. 

7. Level

Reliable levels are critical for achieving accuracy and aesthetics in basic construction, carpentry and installation tasks. A box level or I-Beam level with multiple vials can help guarantee precision in both horizontal and vertical alignment. Some will even have a magnetic edge for hands-free operation. A good level is essential for any storefront operation—use it when hanging shelves or aligning displays. 

8. Tape Measure 

One of the most reached-for items in a standard toolkit, a tape measure is a crucial measuring tool for accurate dimensions on a wide variety of jobs. A retractable design is good for easy handling and storage, while clear markings allow for precise measurements in both metric and imperial units. Whether you’re space planning, material cutting or product sizing, you’ll want to have a tape measure handy. 

Optimize Your Toolkit With NorthSky

Equipping your business with these must-have hand tools ensures you’re ready to take on everyday tasks (and surprises) with confidence. From tightening bolts and cutting materials to hanging decor and assembling furniture, these high-quality hand tools provide the reliability and versatility your business needs to thrive, day in and day out. 

Invest in these essential hand tools for businesses today and set your team up for success tomorrow. Explore NorthSky’s range of professional-grade hand tools from our exclusive Black Canyon brand.