Experts Helped Us Pick Out the Best Truck Toolboxes

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

It doesn't matter whether your gear is neatly compartmentalized inside or scattered about like a child's toy box: a truck toolbox can be critical for keeping safe everything you may need while you take on the road, paved or otherwise. But how do you choose which toolbox to go with? What material should you pick, how much volume will you need, and what type of installation should you look for?

While we don't have all those answers, Chris King of RealTruck does. RealTruck is one of the top retailers for pickup truck and Jeep components, so King and his team know a thing or two about getting just the right toolbox for a truck owner's needs. We spoke with him to get some advice on the best models out there and what sets them apart from the competition.

Things to Consider

Before we start looking at specific models, let's take a look at some of the things you should be considering before picking up a new truck toolbox.

What to Look For in a Truck Toolbox

Truck toolboxes are relatively straightforward to shop for, but there are a few specific details you'll want to take into consideration. "The biggest consideration would be how much stuff you have to haul, how easy it needs to be to access, and perhaps if you need a full-length bed for other items," says King. Regarding the available styles, you have two main options: traditional (aka crossover or trunk-style) toolboxes and drawer-style toolboxes.

"Traditional toolboxes [crossover/trunk style] are a popular solution for most," according to King. "They are durable, typically offer a variety of organization solutions, and allow access from the sides of the vehicle (though that could be a problem for some as bed rail heights always seem to get higher)." But they're not without their flaws. Most notably, traditional crossover toolboxes take away from the length of the truck bed, which could prevent you from transporting longer items.

This is where the alternative drawer-style toolboxes have an advantage. “[Drawer systems] offer an equal or greater load capacity and what you stash away is easy to access from the tailgate with the drawers extended,” says King. “Additionally, they simply raise the floor so you still have a full-length bed to work with, albeit one with less depth.” King also points out that “in some cases, the load capacity for the new deck exceeds the OEM capacity, so there is no issue loading things like ATVs, mowers, or other equipment right on top.”

Self-install vs. Professional Installation

Typically, toolboxes are relatively easy to install with basic hand tools. However, more robust or secure models might require more advanced installation techniques and more universal models might require adjustments to get the fit and securement just right.

"Over-the-rail toolboxes can be as simple as tightening one j-hook per side to clamp the box in position," notes King. "Others may require some drilling or assembly [like the Decked system]." Whatever the case is for the toolbox of your choice, make sure to have all of the tools ready from the get-go and read through all documentation before starting so you know what you're getting yourself into.

Materials and Durability

"Most metal toolboxes are made from aluminum, so owners will have little concern about durability and corrosion resistance over time," according to King. "Steel boxes are available and come with durable powder-coat finishes to protect against rust. However, coatings can chip or scratch, so owners should monitor for that and coat any exposed metal before it becomes a larger concern."

Plastic or composite toolboxes aren't as common, but the few that exist, such as the Swing Case system, "seem to be nearly indestructible," according to King. Aside from potential UV damage over long periods of time, there's also no worry about problems such as rusting, chipped paint, and other visual problems.

Universal vs. Model Specific

"Toolboxes are not entirely universal, though how 'custom' they are will depend on the style chosen," notes King. "At a minimum, options available will depend on the width between the rails of the truck bed, [and] options like Decked or Undercover's Swing Case are designed around factory mounting locations, bed contours, and other items, so those will be vehicle specific."

Along with our friends from RealTruck, we offer you these expert picks for the best truck toolboxes.

Crossover Toolbox

The UWS Crossover Toolbox stands as a testament to traditional over-the-rail storage solutions. Constructed of 0.058-inch aluminum, the unit includes two built-in tool trays, a three-compartment sliding tray for smaller items, a patented foam-filled lid to reduce warping, and a gasket to help keep moisture, dust, and dirt away from your gear.

"Smart interior design features, durable materials, and being made here in the United States make them a favorite among our customers," says King. "They're also available in other styles and finishes, so you can add all the storage you need to haul your gear safely and securely.”

Swing Case

Convenience is king with the Undercover Swing Case. This model-specific toolbox is specially designed for light-duty storage and easy access, made to nestle in behind the wheel well in the truck bed and swing out on a hinge when needed. It also has the added benefit of being easily removed if you're looking to take back that extra space in a pinch.

"There's a reason these end up in almost all of our builds," says King. "Like most people, there are always a handful of things that you need to store and have easy access to. Swing Cases serve that role well and keep your most frequently used items accessible while organizing them by less obtrusive means."

Crossover Truck Toolbox

Decked is most known for its custom drawer-style toolboxes (reviewed by our Ezra Dyer in May 2022), but the company has expanded its product lineup and is now offering more traditional truck toolboxes in the form of the Truck Toolbox.

This universal crossover unit, which should fit most trucks made after 2001, offers 9.8 cubic feet of storage space for tools and gear. It features waterproof, rust-proof polymer construction and comes with accessory trays to further improve your organization and storage options, making it a wonderful all-purpose storage solution if you don't mind shelling out a premium amount.

Red Label Utility Toolbox