Get a Comprehensive Buying Guide on Choosing the Right Toolbox for Your Truck

Table of Contents

• What’s A Truck Toolbox Anyway?
• Why You Need a Truck Tool Box?
• Types of Truck Tool Boxes
• Materials and Construction
• Features to Consider When Buying A Truck Tool Box

What’s A Truck Toolbox Anyway?

Truck owners, commonly utilize a storage container, called a Truck Tool Box crafted specifically for their trucks. It typically is a secure space that organizes truck tools and equipment. This toolbox is usually customized to your truck’s make and model, so you can access it easily when needed. One of the most common places that you will it is on the bed of the trucks. Truck toolboxes come in handy for construction workers, farmers, campers, etc.

Why You Need a Truck Tool Box?

Benefits of having a truck toolbox

While the fundamental requirements of a truck toolbox also known as a Truck Bed Tool Box are security and organization it also helps you store a variety of objects in it. A good, functional, and specific storage space gives you a lot of storage options. Some of the benefits are:

• Security:

You can safely store your tools and objects preventing others from accessing them. The latest galvanized steel models have a tough exterior design and heavy-duty locks

• Organized storage:

You can organize your tools based on need and usage and prevent them from getting lost. In case you have greasy tools, keeping them in closed containers helps to separate it from other everyday usage.

• Easy Access:

It is easier to access your tools when they are stored away from their things, besides saving you time and energy.

• Prevents theft or loss:

Storing your truck tools away also prevents theft, or breakage, or rust. At certain times you can also store certain valuables, depending on the usage and size such as fishing gear, golf clubs, or even campaign equipment.

• Visual appeal:

It also adds a good look to the truck making it a popular accessory.

Types of Truck Tool Boxes

It is important to consider the kind of truck you own and take the measurements and size before venturing to buy a Truck Bed Storage Box. You need to consider the shape of the toolbox; therefore, you need to check the accessibility. It is recommended that you measure the size of the box against the bed to get accurate numbers. Besides that, check for the volume, position, and subsequent changes that need to be made when adding a toolbox.

Crossover Tool Boxes

The crossover toolbox is also referred to as the cross bed or saddle box, and ranks high in terms of choice when it comes to utility. This commonly found tool box for truck is mounted on the bed rails. It is located nearest to the cab, that is front of the truck bed. Typically, they are not placed on the truck bed, making more space under it for storing longer objects such as timber or rods. This versatile toolbox, is easy to install and accessible, as it is designed to cross over the top of the bed and rest on the rails. Its varied design options give you the freedom to customize your requirements. You can opt for a “deep” toolbox, for more volume, if you can afford to cut down on your bed size. Since standard top toolboxes are wider they can block some visibility from the back- window so you can go for the shorter low-profile top toolbox. Other boxes have welded rails to ensure the placement of additional cargo.

It is important to note that these toolboxes also come with different types of lids. Some come have a single long lid, which is raised towards the truck's back window. Some have double lids, which work similarly, but they divide your toolbox and lock individually. Another type has a "gull-wing", which defines the two individual lids opening from the center axil. It is easier to access from wherever you’re sitting. Apart from this check for the lid configuration and latch style, to determine your accessibility.

Side-Mount Tool Boxes

Side mount boxes can be conveniently attached to the truck bed wall. This enables you to mount individual boxes on each side rail. Additionally, you can store heavier and larger items as they come with legs for added support. These toolboxes are a popular pick for outdoor professionals such as electricians, contractors, or plumbers. Certain types of boxes can be fitted directly over crossover boxes. You can easily store larger tools, power tools, or straps. They range from 36 to 88 inches lengthwise, 12” from the front to back at the top, around 8” at the bottom, and hang 6” above the bed rails. You should note that the latches could be single or double as determined by the length.

Chest Tool Boxes

A versatile choice, the chest toolbox fits easily inside the bed and sits lower level than the rails. Due to its variety, it can be used under a tonneau cover, wedge box, or compact box. They come in all shapes, sizes, and materials and can be mounted to the truck or designed to be pulled in and out. As a result, they can be used for trucks, as well as job sites, shops, and garages.

Underbody Tool Boxes

The underbody truck box is considered a heavy-duty truck or semi with a lot of ground clearance. Ideal for a service bed and also flatbeds, they mount underneath them expanding on the storage space. This design results in a deep cabinet feature. The lid can be a swing system or a barn-style one. The bottom mount ensures that you have more storage space by mounting underneath. Lengthwise, they measure anywhere between 24-72 inches.

Wheel-Well Tool Boxes

Wheel-well toolboxes, called truck fenders, are designed to fit in the truck bed. The thinner half slopes nicely over the hump in the wheel well. It is quite handy for storing small devices, nuts, bolts, and smaller vehicular extensions. Situated between the arch of the wheel and the tailgate, its smaller capacity ensures that you can still use any unused space. This enables the driver or user to use the bed length for other purposes, such as storing lumber, drywall, or equipment

Materials and Construction

• Aluminium: 

Aluminium is a popular choice for toolbox construction as it is lightweight, anti-corrosive, sturdy, and sleek-looking. Although it costs a bit more than the plastic ones, it is long-lasting. Due to these properties, they are widely used in several sectors or professions such as Aviation, Transportation, and Chemicals.

• Steel: 

When it comes to extra heavy-duty material steel truck toolboxes rank number 1. The exceptional durability, combined with wear and water-resistant properties provides the right security for your tools. It does not rust and is powder-coated to preserve its quality. A bit pricier, they are a good alternative to aluminium for professional and industrial use, where safety and protection is paramount to the business.

• Plastic/Composite: 

For a more cost-effective purchase you can opt for plastic truck tool boxes. They are ideal for everyday work and sometimes last longer than aluminium due to their anti-corrosive and weather resistance. At most, there might be some discoloration due to prolonged exposure to the sun. However, they are durable, lightweight, and affordable.

Features to Consider When Buying A Truck Tool Box

• Dimensions

Whether you are professional or not it is suggested that you evaluate the dimensions of your desired design before buying. They should always match the compatibility of the truck bed width and length. This will prevent slipping and sliding and ensure that the toolbox is not damaged.

• Security Features

It is imperative to check all locking mechanisms before purchase because not all toolboxes are lockable. If you do tend to store valuable stuff then an exposed toolbox will not suffice. Check for secure, lockable, and push-button design ones that have quicker and easier access.

• Resistance to Weather and Corrosion

The material and make of toolboxes are important in determining their durability and longevity. Be it steel, aluminium or plastic. You will find that at times they are painted to prevent early corrosion or rust. They are also painted to distinguish them for different purposes namely domestic, or industrial as per the safety and regulation standards. If you work outdoors then consider the environmental factors as well.

• Storage and Load Capacity

You should opt for toolboxes based on your need and storage space. So, whether you’re a carpenter, mechanic, plumber or even a homemaker, check your tools and equipment and choose an ergonomic option. It is also equally important to test the load capacity to prevent any untoward accidents during transportation.

• Installation

Most truck toolboxes are easy to install unless you are a professional who constantly works with specific tools, and needs bigger toolboxes. They usually come with mounting hardware, that you need to fix onto the truck bed. The method for each toolbox may differ but you will have the instructions attached to help you. Conventionally, a crossover toolbox is mounted with a J-bolt, nut, and washer. Others may need to be installed after drilling into the bed rails.

Maintenance

It is important to maintain your toolbox and extend its longevity since this is an expensive purchase. Check the locks and hinges at intervals for rust or corrosion. Change them when needed or lubricate them when necessary. It is always better to check for early wear and tear and repair accordingly. You should regularly clean, the dust and other corrosive substances, outside as well as inside. Dip a soft cloth in a soap solution, preferably mild, and wipe off any excess dirt. Do remember to dry out the box to remove any excess moisture. Avoid any harsh chemicals or cleaning products as this could further corrode the box and its contents.

To sum up, a tool box for truck is a must-have accessory, despite your profession. The are found in various types. Some have drawers, that allow you the flexibility to change your layout and organize your tools for ready access. Others have removable trays and dividers. With such a variety of customizable, durable, and security - enabled options, you can rest assured that your tools will remain safe and last longer, making your investment in the truck tool box worth it.