Systainer Size Guide: Match Your Tools to the Right SYS3 Case
Published by Ahmed Hamade · Woodworker & Cabinetmaker
Selecting the correct Systainer case size ensures your tools and accessories fit securely while preventing wasted cabinet height. This guide breaks down the complete Systainer3 (SYS3) system footprints and heights for shop cabinet setup.
SYS3 Footprints & Heights Summary
| Footprint Family | Footprint Dimensions | Imperial Equivalent | Available Heights |
|---|---|---|---|
| SYS3 M (Medium) | 396 x 296 mm | 15.59 x 11.65 in | SYS3 M 112, 137, 187, 237, 337, 437 |
| SYS3 L (Large) | 508 x 296 mm | 20.00 x 11.65 in | SYS3 L 137, 187, 237 |
| SYS3 XXL (Extra Large) | 792 x 296 mm | 31.18 x 11.65 in | SYS3 XXL 237, 337 |
1. Understanding Footprints and Height Numbers
The Systainer3 naming system combines the footprint code (M, L, or XXL) with the exterior height in millimeters. For example, a SYS3 M 137 case has an M footprint (396 mm x 296 mm) and an exterior height of 137 mm.
The interior height is approximately 32 mm lower than the exterior height due to lid recessed channels and bottom feet. When measuring tools with foam inserts, use the internal clear dimension.
2. Standard Systainer Heights and Capacity
Choose your box height based on the physical height of what must fit inside. Interior clear height is approximately 32 mm lower than exterior height due to lid recessed channels and bottom feet. Standard SYS3 M heights range from 112 mm up to 437 mm, allowing custom organization without wasting vertical cabinet space.
| Footprint Code | Footprint Dimensions | Imperial Equivalent | Standard Heights |
|---|---|---|---|
| SYS3 M (Medium) | 396 x 296 mm | 15.6 x 11.7 in | 112, 137, 187, 237, 337, 437 mm |
| SYS3 L (Large) | 508 x 296 mm | 20.0 x 11.7 in | 137, 187, 237 mm |
| SYS3 XXL (Extra Large) | 792 x 296 mm | 31.2 x 11.7 in | 237, 337 mm |
3. Choosing Trays, Drawers, or Open Cases
For organized small parts, Sortainer drawer units provide individual sliding drawers without unstacking boxes. For larger power tools, open SYS3 cases with custom cut foam inserts keep tools stationary during transport.
Inside shop cabinets, placing open SYS3 cases on pull-out trays allows fast access to tools without disconnecting top latches.
4. Planning Cabinets Around Case Heights
Cabinet design begins by calculating the combined height of your case stack. Add 12 mm for each tray bottom, 12.7 mm side slide clearance, and 20 mm vertical handle clearance per tray level.
Read the Systainer Wall Planning Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SYS3 M and SYS3 L footprint sizes?
SYS3 M cases have a standard exterior width of 396 mm and depth of 296 mm. SYS3 L cases increase the width to 508 mm while maintaining the same 296 mm depth, providing 28 percent more horizontal storage space.
Are all Systainer3 boxes the same depth?
Yes. Every Systainer3 is 296 mm from front to back, about 11.7 inches. Only the length across the front changes: the M is 396 mm, the L is 508 mm and the XXL is 792 mm.
Can Systainer3 cases stack with older T-LOC Systainers?
Yes. SYS3 cases connect directly to T-LOC Systainers using the top T-LOC latch mechanism. SYS3 cases also feature integrated side grooves for slide rails in shop cabinets.
Which Systainer size should I choose for hand tools and fasteners?
The SYS3 M 112 case is designed for small accessories, hand tools, and organizer inserts. Its 112 mm height keeps small parts visible and easily accessible.
Where StackDesign sits
StackDesign is one product in a suite. CabDesign is the full cabinet design product, the one that draws kitchens and whole rooms of cabinetry; StackDesign is the piece that plans a wall of tool cases, and it stands on its own. Buy the whole thing, or buy just this part.