Best Truck Toolboxes: Keep Your Gear Secure

Protect your tools and your investment with a solid and sleek truck toolbox

byLisa Conant|
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BYLisa Conant/ LAST UPDATED ON May 27, 2022

Few things are more baffling to me than seeing a nice, new (or even late-model) truck with a mess of tools and gear sliding around the back, scratching up the truck bed and damaging  precious gear. You’ve likely invested some hard-earned dollars in both your truck and your tools, so why not shell out a bit more for a rugged and secure truck toolbox?


Truck toolboxes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials, and price points, so there’s really no excuse for leaving your stuff exposed to the elements and sliding around like some heathen. With my list of top picks and accompanying buying guide, you’ll be rocking around like a boss in no time.

Best Overall
Lund Aluminum Flush Mount Single Lid Truck Toolbox

Lund Aluminum Flush Mount Single Lid Truck Toolbox

Summary
This rugged toolbox is constructed from 0.06-inch aluminum and features a sleek, rust-resistant, diamond-plated black finish that is electrostatically applied to make it ultra-durable.
Pros
  • Flush-mounted to sit flat
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Lightweight, yet durable
Cons
  • Gets very hot when exposed to direct sunlight
  • Doesn’t come with mounting hardware
Best Value

Arksen Durable Aluminum Diamond Plate Toolbox

Summary
This lightweight and affordable truck toolbox is designed for smaller trucks and features a durable center latch that locks for security and to prevent theft.
Pros
  • Can fit in smaller truck beds
  • Super lightweight
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Limited storage capacity compared to larger toolboxes
  • Not as ruggedly constructed as some other models on the list
Honorable Mention

TruXedo TonneauMate

Summary
A unique toolbox that sports a tonneau-friendly design. Offers access to the inside even when the bed is covered.
Pros
  • Large interior space
  • Can be mounted in different areas of the bed (front, middle, or rear)
  • Plays well with TruXedo's tonneau covers
Cons
  • Mounting bracket system needs to be a little stronger
  • May not hold up as well over time as an all-metal toolbox

Summary List 

Honorable Mention: TruXedo TL TonneauMate

Best Plastic: UnderCover SwingCase

Our Methodology

When it comes to choosing the best truck toolboxes, I wanted to provide you with a well-rounded list that features a good variety of reputable manufacturers with solid track records of providing high-quality, durable products. I included a wide range of price points to suit any budget. I focused on truck toolboxes that use the latest construction materials and design methods suitable for a wide variety of truck makes and models. For more information on the selection criteria, click this link to The Drive’s Gear About page, which explains our methodology further.

Best Truck Toolbox Reviews & Recommendations

Specs

  • Brand: Lund
  • Model: 79460T
  • Weight: 40 pounds

Pros

  • Flush-mounted to sit flat
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Lightweight, yet durable

Cons

  • Gets very hot when exposed to direct sunlight
  • Doesn’t come with mounting hardware

If you’re looking for the best overall combination of durability, functionality, aesthetics, and price point, look no further than the Lund Aluminum Flush Mount Single Lid Truck Tool Box. This rugged toolbox is constructed from 0.06-inch aluminum and features a sleek, rust-resistant, diamond-plated black finish that is electrostatically applied to make it ultra-durable. This flush-mounted toolbox gives you just enough storage space without compromising your rear view or the clean lines of your truck bed. This top pick also comes backed by an impressive limited lifetime warranty. Locking T-handles provide easy access while offering a secure closure that won’t fail you. A couple of issues to note: this toolbox doesn’t include mounting hardware. It also gets very hot to the touch when sitting in direct sunlight. It’s also not made to fit in shorter truck beds. Despite these drawbacks, it’s still a great, lightweight, relatively affordable choice.

Specs

  • Brand: ARKSEN
  • Model: 002-39TF-DP-SL
  • Weight: 20.8 pounds

Pros

  • Can fit in smaller truck beds
  • Super lightweight
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Limited storage capacity compared to larger toolboxes
  • Not as ruggedly constructed as some other models on the list

The Arksen underbed storage box is available in both 39 and 49 inches. It's designed for smaller trucks and features a durable center latch that locks for security and to prevent theft. It has a rugged, rotary-style, two-position latch and a weather seal to lock moisture out. It's made of corrosion-resistant aluminum diamond plate and has a polished finish that looks modern and rugged. This toolbox is super lightweight but relatively durable. It features a fully waterproof seal to lock out moisture. You know this toolbox will withstand some serious abuse. You can secure it or weld it directly to the truck bed, and it has plenty of room for tools, gas cans, straps, hitches, and so on. Overall, it's a great value for what you get. Unfortunately, this box is not particularly heavy-duty, and the aluminum is a little on the thin side. Also, the lock isn’t the most tamper-proof one on the market.

Specs

  • Brand:Truxedo
  • Model:1117416
  • Weight:54 pounds

Pros

  • Large interior space
  • Can be mounted in different areas of the bed (front, middle, or rear)
  • Plays well with TruXedo's tonneau covers

Cons

  • Mounting bracket system needs to be a little stronger
  • May not hold up as well over time as an all-metal toolbox

The TruXedo TL TonneauMate is chosen for its lightweight, rugged construction. It’s made from a heavy-duty composite that’s fully water- and rust-proof, giving you years of reliable use. It’s able to accommodate a tonneau cover while being mounted in an elevated position that allows you to use the full length of your truck bed. It also features a versatile adjustable mounting design and can be placed in the front, middle, or rear of your truck bed. This model is affordable and is also compatible with most full-size truck beds, with the exception of stepside, flareside, or composite beds. It features a locking mechanism for added safety and theft protection, although several users complain that the lock itself is tricky and can be frustrating to get into in a hurry. The composite construction looks good and hides scratches that some other all-metal boxes reveal, but if you live in a climate with lots of harsh weather, this box may not hold up as well over time as a pricier, all-metal model. For the price point though, it’s still an excellent value.

Specs

  • Brand: Undercover
  • Model: ‎SC100D
  • Weight: 20 pounds

Pros

  • Works with your tonneau cover
  • Makes good use of awkward over-the-wheel space in your truck bed
  • Comes as a set of two for each side of your truck

Cons

  • Smaller than most traditional truck toolboxes
  • Lacks the space to accommodate larger or more awkward tools

Throwing out the book on traditional truck toolbox design, UnderCover created the SwingCase to appease truck owners who want to keep their beds covered and usable at the same time. As a result, this box fits below the bedrail, staying clear of a tonneau cover and opening up the main usable bed space between the wheels. In addition to a good value, this toolbox also offers a lot of utility for professionals and daily drivers alike. Each case comes in a paired set, so you can install one toolbox on each side of the truck. A curved cutout on the bottom of the box allows it to fit over the wheel, flush with the bed's side. The best part of the box's design is the hinge that allows it to swing out over the tailgate. The hinge makes it easy to access the box without having to dive into the tailgate with the cover closed. The SwingCase is designed with portability in mind, which is both a benefit and drawback. Since you can slide the toolbox out of the hinge to take it with you, the main body is light and small. With a 75-pound weight limit, the storage capacity of the SwingCase is more limited than traditional toolboxes.

Specs

  • Brand: UWS
  • Model: EC10473
  • Weight: 58 pounds

Pros

  • Rugged, rust-resistant aluminum construction
  • Extra thick and rigid lid prevents buckling or sagging
  • Includes tool trays and holders for added organization of smaller tools

Cons

  • Black finish gets very hot to the touch in direct sunlight
  • Tool tray tends to slide around while underway

If you’re in the market for a truck toolbox that mounts to your side rails, but won’t overly impede your rearview with a bulky overhang, check out the UWS Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box. This toolbox offers a slim, streamlined design, but uses patented RigidCore technology to max out strength and stability in the lid. The lid is filled with a dense, yet lightweight foam that helps alleviate buckling and binding. The single-piece body of the toolbox is constructed from welded 0.058-inch aluminum. With dual stainless steel lock handles that are wide-spread for easy access from the sides of the truck, this is one of the more strongly secured truck toolboxes on the list. It’s also got a handy sliding shallow tool tray that’s great for keeping smaller tools and gear organized and at-the-ready. Built-in screwdriver holders are a clever added touch. One thing to note is that the included tool tray does tend to slide around during driving, and can make annoying banging noises. This model also gets pretty hot to the touch when left in direct sunlight for a while.

Specs

  • Brand: Better Built
  • Model: 73010798
  • Weight: 35 pounds

Pros

  • Universal fit
  • Easy-up lid for single-handed entry
  • Solid and durable one-piece construction

Cons

  • Smaller than some other truck toolboxes on the list
  • Only backed by a limited one-year warranty

The Better Built 60-Inch Crossover Single Lid Wedge-In Truck Tool Box is my pick to click for a top-quality crossover truck toolbox. This American-owned company has been providing high-quality, durable truck accessories since 1989. This particular model features a cleverly constructed, universal-fit, wedge design. The solid one-piece aluminum construction will hold up well even with heavy tools and gear weighing it down. The aluminum finish stays cool to the touch in glaring sunlight. Auto-lift, self-rising shocks allow for easy single-handed entry into the box itself. At only 35 pounds, this is a relatively lightweight and easy to install option. Its compact size keeps the truck bed free to hold longer items than if you were to install a truck toolbox that sits on the floor of your truck bed. Of course, the drawback to that is that you lose some storage space due to the lifted, wedge design of the box itself.

Specs

  • Brand: UWS
  • Model: EC10311
  • Weight: 39 pounds

Pros

  • Super slim, space-saving design
  • Easy to install
  • Available in several different sizes to fit a variety of truck makes and models

Cons

  • Ultra slim design won’t accommodate bigger, bulkier tools
  • Doesn’t include any mounting hardware in your purchase

For shorter truck beds, or smaller trucks, consider the ultra-slim UWS Heavy-Wall Aluminum Slim Truck Tool Box. Like other UWS truck toolboxes, this one features heavy-duty lid strength thanks to the patented RigidCore technology that packs the lid with a dense, but lightweight and strong foam core that resists sagging and binding. The lid is also a low-profile design that won’t impede your rearview vision as much as some other bulkier truck toolboxes. The body of the toolbox is constructed from 0.058-inch one-piece aluminum. This compact truck toolbox also comes equipped with a sliding shallow tool tray and built-in screwdriver holders that let you stay organized and find smaller tools quickly. Thankfully, this model also comes with all necessary mounting hardware included and pre-drilled mounting slots that let you install in your truck faster than you can remove it from the shipping box. One thing to note: considering its small size and limited capacity, this toolbox is a little on the pricey side. Also, because of the space-saving design, this option can’t accommodate a lot of bigger, bulkier tools and gear.

Our Verdict

If you’re looking for an ideal combination of durability, functionality, storage capacity, and reasonable price point, my top overall pick has got to be the Lund Aluminum Flush Mount Single Lid Truck Tool Box. This rugged toolbox is constructed from 0.06-inch aluminum and features a sleek, rust-resistant, diamond-plated black finish that is electrostatically applied to make it ultra-durable.

For a reliable and budget-friendly truck toolbox option, try the Arksen Durable Aluminum Diamond Plate Tool Box. It’s lightweight, affordable, is designed for smaller trucks, and features a durable center latch that locks for security and to prevent theft.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Truck Toolbox

While there are many similarities between most decently constructed truck toolboxes on the market, it’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all consideration. There are several important key factors to familiarize yourself with to ensure you’re getting the best choice to suit your needs and that will hold up to the serious wear and tear that most truck owners put their equipment through. 

Type of Truck Tool Box

Depending on the size of your truck bed and your usual cargo-carrying activities, you should first decide what type of truck toolbox will most suit your needs. Do you want a saddle toolbox that floats above the truck bed, allowing you full access to the length of the bed itself? Or maybe you want the larger capacity of a chest toolbox that sits on the floor of your truck bed. There are also side-mounted or wheel-well toolboxes that preserve the center of the truck bed and are great choices if you have a tonneau cover.

Weatherproof Protection

The main purpose of a toolbox, besides organization, is protection. Beyond theft prevention, the best protection a toolbox can provide is from the weather. Weather-resistant protection comes in the form of quality exterior materials and proper weather seal around the seams of the box. The best options can keep out the rain and survive a few knocks from hail or rust from water. Look at stainless steel boxes and heavy-duty aluminum toolboxes with a good powder coat for the best corrosion-resistant protection.

Lock

Theft prevention is an important component to truck beds in general since they lack the inherent security of enclosed cargo spaces like trunks. A toolbox with a high-quality, smooth-running lock makes it more difficult to open the lid to deter casual thieves from stealing the inside contents.

Lid and Gas Lift

If you plan on using your toolbox a lot, a high-quality lid is a must. In addition to weather and theft resistance, the lid should open and close smoothly. Good gas lifts to support the lid help with smooth operation since they can take the weight of the lid and control the movement while opening and closing it.

Truck Toolbox Pricing 

If you’re looking for a decent, budget-friendly or compact, space-saving truck toolbox, you can find one for between $180 and $299, depending on size, construction materials, and manufacturer. However, if you’re looking for a seriously rugged, dependable, and roomy option that will work well with most commercial pickup trucks or full-length beds, you should be prepared to spend closer to $450 to $750. These models come better made with stronger construction, heavier-duty locks, and are usually backed by serious warranties to protect your investment.

FAQs 

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.

Q. What do I need to measure to see if a toolbox will fit?

A: When measuring for your truck toolbox, the most important number to get right is the length of the box. The outside length of the toolbox must measure slightly less than the inside width of your truck bed, or the under mounting space that you plan to use. If you use larger tools, be sure to measure the inside length and width of the toolbox to ensure that it will be able to accommodate your larger tools.

Q: What is the most secure truck toolbox?

A: The most secure truck toolboxes have independently locking latches, usually one on each side of the box. Some may require different keys to open each lock. Another great option to look for is the added ability to padlock the toolbox for an extra layer of theft prevention. The UWS Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box, Better Built 60-Inch Crossover Single Lid Wedge-In Truck Tool Box, and UWS Heavy-Wall Aluminum Slim Truck Tool Box all feature a rugged dual-locking latch system.

Q: What is a low-profile truck toolbox?

A: Low-profile truck toolboxes either sit with the top of the toolbox flush with the rail of your truck bed, or just very slightly raised if they’re rail-mounted. This is designed so that visibility out of your rearview window remains unimpeded while driving or backing up.

Q: Are truck toolboxes weatherproof?

A: Every single truck toolbox on my list is thoroughly weatherproof. Other than theft prevention, protection from the elements is the most important thing to look for in any decently constructed truck toolbox. If it’s not weatherproof, don’t waste your money.

Q: What can I store in a truck toolbox?

A: Well, other than tools and work-related gear, you can store a myriad of things in your truck toolbox, including suitcases, emergency supplies, groceries, camping gear, lightweight items that would blow out of the back of your truck during transport, books, files, important papers, and more.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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