Just how messy is the flatbed of your pick up? If there are tools strewn everywhere, perhaps it’s time to invest in a good toolbox.
Truck bed tool boxes will not only keep your tools organized but also safe from the elements. The equipment will not get damaged or thrown off the bed when your driving hits a speed bump. There are many advantages a flatbed toolbox offers to drivers.
Read ahead to learn all about choosing a great toolbox for your pickup. The article includes reviews of the best products as well as a buyer’s guide to refer to.
- Features to Consider in Good Truck Bed Tool Boxes
- Top 10 Best Truck Bed Tool Boxes 2024
- 1. Undercover SC100D SwingCase Truck Storage Box
- 2. Bestop 42640-01 HighRock 4x4 Under Seat Lock Box for 2007-2018 Wrangler JK, Driver side
- 3. Montezuma Portable Tool Box - 30" x 15" Truck Bed Storage Chest
- 4. Buyers Products Black Poly All-Purpose Chest (6.3 Cubic ft.)
- 5. Topeakmart 24" Truck Tool Box
- 6. Dee Zee DZ8537B 37" Red Label Utility Chest
- 7. Yaheetech Aluminum Trailer Truck Pickup Underbody Underbed Tongue Tool Box Storage Box
- 8. Tuff Truck Bag Waterproof Heavy Duty
- 9. TMS Aluminum Tool Box Tote Storage for Truck Pickup Bed
- 10. Better Built 66010148 Utility Trailer Tongue Tool Box
- Guide to Buying the Best Truck Bed Tool Box
Features to Consider in Good Truck Bed Tool Boxes
Choosing a toolbox just for your pickup’s flatbed can be a challenge. There are so many toolboxes out there, but picking a product that best suits your vehicle can be difficult.
To ease the process, here are some important features you need to look for when choosing the product you want:
- Dimensions—Check the length and height of the toolbox. This indicates whether it will fit the bed of your truck. Then check the depth of the interior, which indicates how spacious the toolbox is.
- Water Resistance—Obviously, you wouldn’t want the tools inside the storage box to get wet. Therefore, check if the product you have in mind is weather resistant.
- Sturdiness—This is important because a material that is not sturdy or rigid would dent easily. You can determine how sturdy the toolbox is by checking how dense the material is.
- Compatibility with our Vehicle—Some truck bed toolboxes are specific to certain types of pickups. Therefore, look for vehicle compatibility information before buying the product.
You can learn more about shopping tips in the comprehensive buying guide provided below. Proceed ahead to read the reviews of the top rated truck bed tool boxes.
Top 10 Best Truck Bed Tool Boxes 2024
1. Undercover SC100D SwingCase Truck Storage Box
Editor’s Rating:
Design
This US-made tool storage box for pickups is made from ABS plastic. This material is lightweight but also high impact resistant. The SwingCase is designed to be tough and sturdy through transport.
The exterior of the storage box is weather-resistant. The interior can remain dry even in heavy rain or after a snowfall.
The lid of the toolbox is secured with a twist lock. Drivers can open the toolbox with or without a key.
Once the SwingCase is installed, there will be about 3 inches of space left on the top. The box can be installed with any type of tonneau covers, including hard, rolling, folding, or soft ones.
Performance
This toolbox is made to make it easier for drivers to just access items by pulling over and releasing a lever. There’s no need to climb over to the truck bed for access.
Interestingly enough, it’s custom-fit for pickups of specified vehicle models. The toolbox perfectly fits over the wheel arch and saves space on the truck bed.
This truck bed toolbox comes with a sliding shelf. The interior is well-organized and it’s easy to keep the smaller tools separated from the larger ones. The inside of the toolbox is spacious enough to keep rescue kits and towing supplies.
The maximum weight capacity of the toolbox is 76 pounds, which is quite impressive given its size.
Plus, installation is really easy and doesn’t require drills. The toolbox comes with self-tapping screws. The toolbox is really easy to remove whenever needed as well.
The lid doesn’t have an in-built locking mechanism but users can get their own key. The latch of the lid is quick-release and swings out 180-degrees for quick and easy access.
Overall
This is compact, convenient, and highly durable truck bed toolbox that is perfect for most types of pickups. It’s easy to install and is wonderfully sturdy. There’s a sliding tool inside to keep the stuff in the box well-organized. It’s one of the best truck bed tool boxes money can buy.
Pros
- Made from sturdy ABS
- Lightweight
- Weatherproof
- Spacious
- Includes slider shelf
- Easy installation
- Lockable
Cons
- Not compatible with all pickup models
- No inbuilt locking mechanism for the latch
2. Bestop 42640-01 HighRock 4x4 Under Seat Lock Box for 2007-2018 Wrangler JK, Driver side
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The simple black box design is perfect for keeping tools neatly organized in a pickup inconspicuously. The box is lockable, providing added security. The cylinder lock is pick-resistant.
The toolbox is made from 16 gauge carbon steel. The material is extremely tough. The exterior of the toolbox is fashioned with a textured black powder finish. Needless to say, the finish keeps the carbon from rusting.
The toolbox is easy to install using factory-issue seat riser bolts. The bolt-in style doesn’t require any tools to install.
Performance
The interior is 16 inches long, 5.75 inches wide, and roughly 3 inches high. That’s quite spacious to keep all the necessary tools. Drivers can even put valuable items in here thanks to the two-key lock mechanism.
One great feature of this toolbox is that it doesn’t interfere with driver seat adjustment. It even has USB ports for factory electrical points. But take note that this toolbox is not compatible with tilt and flip seats.
The no-drill install is another great plus. The toolbox comes with a relocation kit in case drivers need to rewire a plug.
Overall
This theft-resistant toolbox can be used for universal storage. The integrated security lock with two keys is valuable in itself. The interior of the box is spacious enough for nearly all tools. The toolbox is also sturdily made and can last a lifetime. The only issue is that it doesn’t fit some newer versions of Jeep Wrangler pickups. Other than that, this truck bed toolbox offers excellent value for money.
Pros
- Built with tough carbon material
- Spacious interior
- Two-key locking mechanism
- No-drill installation
- Doesn’t interfere with driver seat adjustment
- Sturdy
- Pick-resistant lock
Cons
- Doesn’t fit some new Jeep Wrangler models
- Not compatible with tilt and flip seats
3. Montezuma Portable Tool Box - 30" x 15" Truck Bed Storage Chest
Editor’s Rating:
Design
This toolbox is constructed from all steel, 16 gallons to be precise. Each piece is expertly welded.
The lid functions with a gas spring. The lid secures with a latch when the toolbox is closed. The lid has no built-in locking mechanism but can be locked externally.
The interior is about 15 inches deep. It’s not empty space, the interior has many compartments of varying sizes to hold the tools.
Performance
This is an impressively well-built toolbox for flatbeds. The biggest advantage is the drawers and the little compartments that can hold both S.A.E. and metric tools.
This toolbox is superb for managing and organizing various items. The toolbox is available in different sizes to suit any type of truck bed.
Some of the common tools that can be kept in this box: small hand tools, hammers, hacksaws, pipe wrenches, hacksaws, pliers, chisels, and many more.
There are small storage boxes at the bottom of the toolbox as well. Deep sockets are provided for various S.A.E tools.
The seams are well sealed and are considerably leak-resistant. The interior is kept sealed against moisture and dust. The exterior is brite powder coated to keep the box protected from the elements.
The powered coating also prevents rusting issues common with steel items.
The toolbox lacks a locking mechanism. However, the lid can secure itself upon closing. Users can attach a combination lock to the latch if desired.
Plus, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Overall
This is the perfect toolbox to keep everything well-organized. It’s near unlimited in space when it comes to storing many different types of items. While it can be difficult to mount this onto anything, this toolbox is portable and can be used with many different types of vehicles.
Pros
- Superior build
- Steel construction
- Has compartments for various tools
- Comes with a limited lifetime warranty
- Dust and moisture-resistant
- Securable lid
Cons
- No inbuilt locking mechanism
- Not mountable to the truck bed
- Very expensive
4. Buyers Products Black Poly All-Purpose Chest (6.3 Cubic ft.)
Editor’s Rating:
Design
This truck bed chest is made from a high-density polyethylene body. This type of plastic is 1/8 thick, which means it’s sturdy enough for a person of average weight to stand on. The lid is also made from a double layer of composite material.
The density of the material does make it a bit weighty. However, compared to steel tool boxes, this storage chest is still considerably lightweight.
The exterior of the chest is dent-resistant. The lid always remains closed even when driving over road bumps.
The chest has a stainless steel hasp and a hinge that can be used with a padlock. The hinge is weather-resistant and corrosion-resistant.
Performance
This is a relatively large and spacious toolbox for the truck bed. It’s super sturdily made and won’t break easily. This toolbox is suitable for all types of weather, whether it’s rain, snow, or the summer heat.
One disadvantage is that the toolbox doesn’t have its own locking mechanism. However, it has a hasp that supports a combination lock, a padlock, or another lock of similar to these. That’s the only security the box provides.
Because it’s made from plastic, it will not weigh on the truck bed like metal tool boxes of similar density.
In addition to trucks, you can use this on trailers with A-frames. The spacious interior will hold nearly all types of commonly used vehicle tools, including small jacks. It can carry close to 100 pounds of equipment without any damage.
Overall
This is a wonderful heavy-duty truck bed toolbox for many different types of uses. It can be manually secured and is weatherproof. The interior will remain dry even in heavy rain. It’s a great product that is well worth the value.
Pros
- Superior sturdy material
- Dent-resistant
- Waterproof exterior
- Weather-resistant metal hasp for supporting a lock
- Lightweight compared to metal tool boxes
- Suits just about any type of truck
Cons
- No inbuilt locking mechanism
5. Topeakmart 24" Truck Tool Box
Editor’s Rating:
Design
This toolbox is made from aluminum. The box is fully welded and rubber sealed. The seal keeps dust and moisture out of the interior.
The opening dimensions of the toolbox are 20×13.2 inches. The interior is quite spacious. The box has a flexible T-handle for closing.
The cover is drop-down and offers complete access to the box. The toolbox comes with a lockable plastic caps. Two keys are provided.
The exterior is textured to match the linear patterns found on most truck beds.
Performance
This is an amazingly well-built truck tool box. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but the features can be well worth it.
The box is exceptionally sturdy. An adult weighing under 200 pounds can stand on the box and not cause any damage to it.
This flatbed toolbox is weather-resistant and keeps everything inside safe from moisture. If you have rust-prone tools, then this toolbox would be perfect for storing that equipment.
The load-bearing capacity of the storage box is no less than impressive. It looks good too and neatly matches the truck bed surface. It can comfortably hold jacks, wrenches, safety chains, planks, and crowbars.
The box is lockable and secure. Two universal keys are provided to keep the box safe from thieves.
The toolbox is not only lightweight, it’s quite durable as well. However, it’s important to match the truck’s dimensions before purchasing.
The toolbox is weightier compared to plastic versions of the same size. But that’s not a major downside.
Overall
Though is bit expensive, this toolbox for truck beds is well made, lockable, and sealed with rubber. It’s great for keeping tools safe and also protected from moisture. It has a basic lock and secures relatively well too. This is a great toolbox for those who don’t like plastic truck bed tool boxes.
Pros
- Rubber sealed
- Textured alloy exterior
- Durable
- Lightweight
- High load capacity
- Very sturdy
- Lockable
Cons
- Expensive
- Matches only specified models
6. Dee Zee DZ8537B 37" Red Label Utility Chest
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The massive body of the Dee Zee toolbox is made from Brite-Tread aluminum. This type of alloy is resistant to corrosion. The exterior of the box is covered in a protective powder coat in gloss black, which further increases rust resistance.
The latch on the lid is made from contractor-grade stainless steel. The paddle handle makes it convenient to use.
The toolbox has a closed cell foam gasket to keep the elements out. The lid of the toolbox is crowned and has a hidden hinge of full length.
The whole body is made from three pieces, intended to increase the sturdiness of the toolbox.
Performance
For the given price, this toolbox is made from some truly spectacular material. The high-end material certainly plays a role in justifying the price.
This gloss black toolbox can be easily secured to any truck bed. The box has pre-drilled holes to quickly secure to the truck bed.
The toolbox is sufficiently weather-resistant and keeps the worse elements out. However, this weather resistance can deteriorate with age.
The toolbox and its latches are certainly more rigid than anything else. The lid enclosure has a double V stiffner to make it stronger.
The paddle hand cases are lockable. The interior is spacious enough to keep the smaller tools well organized.
Though the lack lacks a locking mechanism. Buyers can separately use a small padlock.
Overall
The eye-watering price aside, the Dee Zee truck bed toolbox is a relatively decent product. It has some minor issues, but it’s great for keeping the frequently used truck tools well organized.
Video
Pros
- Excellent rust resistance
- Top-of-the-line material
- Weather-resistant
- Securable
Cons
- No inbuilt locking mechanism
- Weather resistance deteriorates with time
7. Yaheetech Aluminum Trailer Truck Pickup Underbody Underbed Tongue Tool Box Storage Box
Editor’s Rating:
Design
This toolbox is made of high-intensity alloy. The material is not only sturdy, it’s also corrosion resistant. This toolbox has no additional powder coating because of this.
The lid has a seal ring. The lid can keep out rainwater or dust.
The toolbox has a built-in lock. The lock comes with a protective plastic cap and unlocks with two universal keys.
Performance
After affordability, the second best part of this toolbox is that it’s really spacious. The interior can support tools like wrenches, jacks, crowbars, planks, and camping gear.
However, the space is not unlimited. Some items, like propane gas canisters, will not fit.
The alloy body is rather thin but it’s highly durable. You won’t need to keep repairing this product. The alloy also makes the whole toolbox quite lightweight.
The lightweight-ness has its disadvantages. This toolbox requires some support because of the lack of weight. The bottom may require additional steel plating to keep from flipping over.
There is no upper support either. The box is flimsy on its own so the buyers will have to additionally provide the support it needs.
The storage box is adequately weather resistant and can keep moisture and dust out of the interior. Thanks to the inbuilt lock, the box is secure and safe as well.
Overall
The low price tag really makes this truck bed toolbox really worth it. It’s adequately weatherproof and surprisingly durable. The construction is well welded but can be lightweight and lack support. These problems can be easily fixed with a DIY project.
Pros
- Corrosion-free
- Durable construction
- Weatherproof lid
- Lightweight
- No vehicle specific
Cons
- Flimsy and can easily flip over
- Thin construction
8. Tuff Truck Bag Waterproof Heavy Duty
Editor’s Rating:
Design
This truck bag is made from a non-breathable PVC material. The PVC is waterproof and weatherproof. The edges of the well-made bag are heat fusion sealed to prevent any type of leakage.
The bag has a commercial-grade heavy-duty zipper. The bag opens with a flap cover that is sealed when the zipper is closed. The corners of the bag have metal rings to secure the organizer to the truck bed.
The bag comes with four bungee cords that are adjustable to fix it to the truck bed. Once uninstalled, this truck bag can be collapsed for easy storage in homes or garages.
Performance
This truck bag is not a toolbox per se but a massive organizer that can be installed and uninstalled on the truck bed. While it’s not particularly useful for storing small tools, it’s the perfect solution for transporting massive tools or equipment.
One major advantage is that this bag can be installed on just about any truck bed regardless of the model. The waterproof fabric keeps the tools protected from the elements.
There are two main disadvantages. One is that the Tuff bag takes up most of the truck bed. That leaves little room for keeping anything else.
Other biggest drawback is lack of security. There is no inbuilt mechanism for keeping tools safe from theft.
But the material is lightweight and easy to carry. Installation is easy-peasy and requires no tools whatsoever.
Overall
If you have larger tools to transport, this truck bag may be the perfect solution. It’s not a conventional toolbox, but it will protect your items from the elements. It provides the security of cover, but there are no anti-theft mechanisms. Other than these issues, the truck bag is a good option to consider for pickups of any model.
Pros
- Vehicle model independent
- Offers massive cover
- Easy installation
- Waterproof and weatherproof material
- Comes with bungee cables
Cons
- No securing mechanism
- Not a conventional toolbox
- Takes up a lot of space on a truck bed
9. TMS Aluminum Tool Box Tote Storage for Truck Pickup Bed
Editor’s Rating:
Design
This toolbox is made from aluminum. It’s 49 inches in length, so the box is considerably long. Though the box is not vehicle model specific, truck beds must be able to support this length to fit this toolbox.
The exterior of the box is made from brightly finished tread plate. The box is weather-resistant. Each side includes a heavy-duty handle to carry the box.
The lid closes with a weighted hinge. The parts of the toolbox are fully welded. The lid contains a lock mechanism that comes with 2 keys.
Performance
This is a great toolbox if you want something that is secure but doesn’t require installation. It’s relatively easy to use this toolbox between multiple vehicles.
The lack of installation does come with its own problem as well. The toolbox is not attached to the truck bed, which means a higher risk of the box being displaced or moving around when the pickup is in motion.
Also, despite being made of alloy, the plates of the box are rather thin. It’s not dense at all and might cause denting.
The lack of density offers the advantage of a lightweight toolbox that’s easy to carry around. Also, the box is generously large enough to carry most tools. It’s longer than most tool boxes, so that’s a major perk.
The box is decently lockable. But don’t count on the locking mechanism to be pick-resistant.
Overall
This alloy steel case is pricier than usual, but it’s well-crafted. The box is not without its problems, but generally does what it promises. It’s great for keeping tools that are longer than usual in just about any pickup model out there.
Pros
- Welded alloy body
- 2-key lock
- Weather resistant casing
- No installation required
Cons
- Not particularly sturdy
- Low-density material
10. Better Built 66010148 Utility Trailer Tongue Tool Box
Editor’s Rating:
Design
This truck bed tool box is made from alloy diamond plate. It’s textured like the bed of a truck so it won’t stand out when installed.
This toolbox is wider in the back and thinner in the front. It’s about 16 inches deep front to back. Height is about 12 inches.
Performance
This toolbox’s construction is very basic and suitable for casual use. The alloy plate is rather thin and feels like it could dent. But once mounted, it is adequately sturdy.
Don’t expect exceptional rigidity from this toolbox. The construction is so-so, but there’s nothing bad enough to be pointed out in the construction.
The major advantage of this toolbox is that it’s really spacious. It can hold more tools than the average storage box for trucks. It can accommodate larger tools as well.
The toolbox closes tightly, but it’s doesn’t seal well. It’s can stave off mild rain, but this storage box is not quite weatherproof.
The alloy can get really hot under summer temperatures. Drivers will have to use caution when storing oils and similar items that are vulnerable to heat.
Overall
This truck bed toolbox doesn’t boast any major advantages, but it gets the job done. Buy it if you want a lot of storage for your tools. But be aware of its shortcomings as well. It’s not moisture- resistant and it’s not coated for rust resistance. Regardless, it’s still a product worth considering.
Pros
- Spacious interior
- Alloy plate build
- Suits any spacious vehicle model
- Wider in the back adding more space
Cons
- Not weatherproof
- Thin plates
- Vulnerable to summer heat
Guide to Buying the Best Truck Bed Tool Box
When shopping for the best truck bed toolbox, keep the following information in mind:
The Material Determines Weight and Rigidity
Truck bed tool boxes are typically made from three different types of materials:
- Plastic
- Steel
- Aluminum
The material typically determines how weighty the toolbox is. Plastic is usually the most lightweight, and alloy comes next. Steel is typically quite weighty. Consider the weight if you don’t want to strain the flatbed.
Also, the material can determine how rigid the toolbox is. That is to say, how likely it is to dent or break underweight. Metal boxes are quite rigid. High-density plastic boxes are as rigid as metal.
But be on the lookout for boxes made from thin plates of alloy or plastic. These will break or bend under pressure.
Mountable Vs. Portable Tool Boxes
Some truck bed toolboxes can be mounted or affixed to the flatbed of the pickup. These boxes will not move when the pickup is in motion.
Mounted toolboxes will secure the tools in one place during a drive. But these may require complex installation. Once installed, the box cannot be moved or easily dismounted.
There are also portable toolboxes drivers can buy. These boxes do not require any type of installation and can be used with multiple vehicles.
But portable toolboxes may move when the pickup is in motion. That’s a major disadvantage when you just want to keep the tools safe.
Both types of tool boxes have their advantages and disadvantages. Weigh these against your needs to determine the best toolbox for your pickup.
Vehicle Compatibility
Some mountable toolboxes can be fitted on to specified vehicles only. If you are buying one of these boxes, make sure to double check that your vehicle model can support the box you want.
Some toolboxes are universally compatible with truck flatbeds as long as the dimensions match the flatbed size. Portable tool boxes don’t need to be mounted and are thus universally compatible.
Weatherproofing
Buy a truck bed tool box with a lid that seals upon closing to weatherproof the box. It’s a notable advantage when the toolbox can protect your items from the elements.
Weatherproofing may be combined with dust resistance as well. You can keep your tools stores for a long period without needing to take them out for cleaning with a dust and moisture proof toolbox.
Check the Interior Dimensions
Most products show the dimensions of the exterior of the truck bed toolbox. But what about the interior?
It’s really the size of the interior that matters when it comes to storage boxes. Therefore, get these dimensions from the seller to understand how big the interior is. It should be deep and long enough for certain big tools.
But most truck bed toolboxes are spacious enough for commonly used items like wrenches and jacks.
If you have an unusually big tool you need to carry, then you may want to look for a product that is more than just a toolbox.
Locking Mechanism
Drivers will certainly prefer to be able to lock the toolbox, just in case. Not all tool boxes have this feature, however.
Some toolboxes have latches lock when closed. Not all tool boxes have this inbuilt locking mechanism.
There are other tool boxes that don’t offer a built-in locking mechanism but instead offers a latch that can be padlocked or used with a combination lock.
Either is a desirable option for those who want a lockable toolbox. If you live in a city, this might come in handy.
Drawers and Compartments
Truck bed tool boxes, for the most part, offer chest-like spaces for storing your tools. The best products go a bit further and also offer compartments and drawers for organizing tools.
If you can easily organize your tools like this, then such a toolbox would be well worth the money. Unfortunately, not all products have this feature.
When buying a toolbox with compartments, you may want to make sure the compartments are big enough for the tools. Some sockets and slots might not fit the tools you already have.