Everything you need to know about using 3D-printed accessories on the jobsite — how strong they are, what materials we use, what we can and can't print, and how to order custom.
Can 3D-printed parts handle real tradie use?
Yes — when printed in the right material. Our parts are printed in PETG, an industrial-grade thermoplastic that's tougher than PLA, less brittle than ABS, and holds up to heat, chemicals and UV. We've shipped 10,000+ orders to Australian tradies without a durability return.
Are 3D-printed tool inserts strong enough for impact tools?
For cradling impact drivers, rattle guns and heavy drills inside a Packout — yes. PETG has enough shock absorption to protect tools in transit and enough rigidity to hold them snug. We don't print load-bearing structural parts, but tool organisation, battery holders, and wall mounts for normal-weight equipment are exactly what PETG is made for.
What's the temperature range of PETG?
PETG softens at around 80°C. For context: that's hotter than a summer-parked ute cabin on a 40°C day (internal cabin peaks around 70°C). We've had customers leave parts in vehicles in Darwin and Broken Hill with no deformation. Don't leave them in direct sunlight against glass for days on end.
Can I request a custom design?
Yes — that's what we do. Send us a sketch, photo, measurement list or CAD file via our Custom 3D Printing Order page. We'll design the part, print a test copy, and ship. Typical turnaround 5–10 business days.
What files can I send for custom printing?
STL, STEP, OBJ, 3MF, Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or just a hand-drawn sketch with measurements. We handle the design work if you don't have a CAD file.
Why is 3D printing better than injection moulding for niche tools?
Injection moulding requires tooling costs of $10,000+ per design and a minimum run of thousands. For a niche Packout insert or a Yoto card holder, that's commercially impossible. 3D printing lets us design and manufacture one at a time, or ten at a time, at the same per-unit economics. That's how we support 100+ products across six tool platforms.
How long do 3D-printed parts last?
Indefinitely, under normal conditions. PETG doesn't degrade with UV like PLA does, and it doesn't warp with temperature like ABS. Tradies using our parts for 2+ years report no structural issues.
Do you offer bulk pricing for trade businesses?
Yes. If you're outfitting a full crew or a workshop, get in touch and we'll put together trade pricing.
What if the insert doesn't fit?
Every product page lists compatibility. If a part doesn't fit as advertised, we'll replace or refund no questions asked. Our fitment guarantee is on every order.
Why PETG over other 3D printing filaments?
We tested PLA (too brittle for tool abuse), ABS (warps in hot cars, hard to print consistently), ASA (good UV but expensive), Nylon (flexes too much), and TPU (flexes too much). PETG hit the sweet spot: tough, dimensionally stable, UV-stable, and affordable enough to keep retail prices sensible.
Got a tool storage problem we can solve?
Browse our full Trade Mods range, or request a custom-designed solution.