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Truck tool boxes help organize and protect valuable tools and gear on the road. After researching more than 30 highly-rated models, we chose the top four to try out in our own trucks. And after some testing, we found a favorite: a low-profile saddle tool box from Weather Guard. Made from aluminum alloy with fully welded seams and advanced locking, this model is an excellent choice for both pros and DIYers.
Hauling tools in an open truck bed is risky, as it makes them an easy target for thieves and exposes them to the elements. If you’re looking for a secure way to store and transport your tools, keep reading. Our guide covers the most important shopping considerations and details how the following models earned a spot on our lineup of the best truck tool boxes.
- BEST OVERALL: Weather Guard Aluminum Low-Profile Truck Tool Box
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Tuffiom 24-Inch Heavy-Duty Aluminum Truck Box
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR MECHANICS: Montezuma 23-Inch Steel Triangle Truck Tool Box
↓ Jump to Review - BEST LOW-PROFILE: BatoneCo 34.5-Inch Aluminum Tool Box With Lock
↓ Jump to Review - BEST CROSSOVER: Tractor Supply Co. 70-Inch Crossover Tool Box
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SWING: UnderCover SwingCase Truck Tool Box
↓ Jump to Review - BEST WITH TONNEAU COVERS:TruXedo TonneauMate Truck Tool Box
↓ Jump to Review
Truck Tool Boxes Comparison Chart
| Type | Material | Capacity | |
| Weather Guard | Saddle | Aluminum | 11 cubic feet |
| Tuffiom | Storage box | Aluminum | 4.2 cubic feet |
| Montezuma | Socket box | Steel | Not listed |
| BatoneCo | Low-profile | Aluminum | 1.6 cubic feet |
| Tractor Supply Co. | Crossover | Aluminum | 10.6 cubic feet |
| UnderCover | Swing | ABS plastic | Varies |
| TruXedo | Tonneau | ABS plastic | Varies |
Our Top Picks
Getting the right tool box for your truck depends on the type of tools you tend to haul and whether you want a mounted or portable model. In addition to the four we tested, we’ve included three additional truck tool boxes that made our shortlist. There’s something here for everyone.
Best Overall
Weather Guard Aluminum Low-Profile Truck Tool Box
What We Like
- Heavy-duty build
- Secure locking mechanism
- No-drill installation
- Slow-close lid
What We Don’t Like
- Once coded, key cannot be recoded
Specs
- Type Saddle
- Material Aluminum
- Capacity 11 cubic feet
Our Ratings: Installation 4.8/5; Security 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.8/5
Weather Guard’s tool boxes are popular picks for anyone who wants to store and transport their tools, and we had admired them for years before deciding to invest in one. Now, we wish we had bought it sooner. We mounted the Weather Guard aluminum tool box right behind the cab of our 1-ton Ford pickup, and it has exceeded our expectations.
The tool box is built to last. It’s made from heavy-duty aluminum with fully welded seams and a slow-close lid, and it features a no-drill installation. It mounts via U-clamps and carriage bolts to the truck’s rails. It also boasts Weather Guard’s 1-Key Ultralock system, which allowed us to key the lock with a code for added security. If you buy this tool box, register the code you choose with the manufacturer in case you ever need a replacement key.
We’ve had the Weather Guard truck bed storage box on our truck for several months now, and despite several rainstorms and a test drive through the carwash, our tools stayed dry. This tool box costs a bit more than some, but if you want durability and secure protection for your tools, it’s an excellent choice.
What our tester says: “I’m so glad we finally bought a Weather Guard truck tool box. It’s by far the most durable and best-built model we’ve ever owned.” —Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Weather Guard truck tool box from Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., or Northern Tool + Equipment.
Best Bang for the Buck
Tuffiom 24-Inch Heavy-Duty Aluminum Truck Box
What We Like
- Rugged, yet affordable
- Side door design
- Keyed lock for added security
What We Don’t Like
- Latch took a bit of jiggle to close
Specs
- Type Storage box
- Material Aluminum alloy
- Capacity 4.2 cubic feet
Our Ratings: Installation 4.5/5; Security 4.5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.5/5
It’s not necessary to spend a lot to get a quality truck tool box for transporting gear. We tested the 24-inch version of the Tuffiom heavy-duty aluminum tool box (other sizes are available) and were impressed with its build quality, design, and keyed lock.
This type of tool box is best suited for mounting near the tailgate on a truck bed or at the side of a flatbed because it has a side door that folds down rather than a top lid. We found this handy for accessing tools without the need to climb onto the truck bed to access the box’s contents.
The fold-down door fastens with a twist latch and can be locked with a key for added security. The only issue we had (and it’s a minor one) was that we had to jiggle the latch to get it to lock tight—not a big deal for a rugged tool box.
Get the Tuffiom truck tool box at Amazon.
Best For Mechanics
Montezuma 23-Inch Steel Triangle Truck Tool Box
What We Like
- Organized socket and wrench storage
- Items inside are easy to see and access
- Weather-resistant lid seal
- Lockable truck tool box
What We Don’t Like
- Tends to slide during transport if not mounted
Specs
- Type Triangle socket box
- Material Steel
- Capacity Not listed
Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Security 4.5/5; Durability 4.5/5; Value 4.8/5
DIY mechanics or anyone who uses a variety of sockets on their projects will appreciate the organization and secure storage offered by the Montezuma triangle steel tool box. We liked having the ability to put several dozen sockets and wrenches in the box and see exactly what we wanted when we opened the lid.
The Montezuma box is designed with multiple tiers and pegs to hold sockets and keep them organized. Once we had the sockets, a few wrenches, and screwdrivers in the box, we closed the lid, locked it, and tipped the box over. When we re-opened it, a couple of items inside had become dislodged, but most were still in the spots where we put them.
This mechanic’s tool box has a seal on the inside of the lid, and not a drop of water got in during our carwash test. This box can be mounted or just set in the back of the truck unmounted, although we would suggest restraining it with straps during transport if it’s unmounted to avoid sliding or tipping..
What our tester says: “I love all the hooks and pegs in the Montezuma tool box that keep sockets and wrenches organized and easy to grab. It’s so much handier than digging around to find them at the bottom of a standard tool box.” —Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Montezuma truck tool box at Amazon or Montezuma.
Best Low-Profile
BatoneCo 34.5-Inch Aluminum Tool Box With Lock
What We Like
- Compact; can be slid under a saddle box
- Suitable for trailer tongue mounting
- Rugged and durable
- Waterproof truck tool box
What We Don’t Like
- Limited to storing relatively flat items
Specs
- Type Low profile
- Material Aluminum
- Capacity 1.6 cubic feet
Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Security 4.5/5; Durability 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5
When the situation calls for storage on the inside and out, check out Tractor Supply’s Crossover Single-Sometimes, there’s just no room or need for a deep truck tool box. If that’s the case, check out BatoneCo’s low-profile tool box that can be mounted in a truck bed or slid under a saddle tool box to save space. That’s what we did—we slid it under the Weather Guard tool box listed above, and it fit perfectly.
Measuring 6.4 inches high and 34.5 inches long, this tool box is just right for storing small or flat items, such as crowbars, coiled extension cords, hammers, and ratchet straps. We were able to fit a compact drill inside, but our beefier power tools were too large. Like the other three tool boxes we tested, no water leaked in during the car wash test.
This low-profile truck tool box is a good size for mounting on the tongue of a trailer to carry essentials such as tie-down straps, flares, screwdrivers, and wrenches—or even an extra pair of work gloves.
We like the BatoneCo for use as a secondary tool box. For our projects, it’s a bit too small to be a primary tool box, but it’s great for carrying all those small items that would otherwise get lost at the bottom of deeper tool boxes.
Get the BatoneCo truck tool box at Amazon or Walmart.
More Great Options
While we didn’t test the following two boxes personally, they made our vetted list before we chose the above models to test. We selected these based on build quality, versatility, and consumer rating. If you’re still looking for a great truck tool box, check these out.
Best Crossover
Tractor Supply Co. 70-Inch Crossover Tool Box
What We Like
- Long-lasting aluminum construction
- Stainless steel pull handles
- Interior storage tray
- Lid-top cargo tie-downs
What We Don’t Like
- Tie-downs on lid may require adjusting box’s depth
Specs
- Type Crossover
- Material Aluminum
- Capacity 10.6 cubic feet
When the situation calls for storage inside and out, check out Tractor Supply Co.’s single-lid crossover truck box. The features that sold us on this model include the durable aluminum construction and stainless steel pull handles that lock for security. With a capacity of 10.6 cubic feet, it measures 70 inches long by 20 inches wide by 14 inches tall.
We also like the tool box’s unique inside and outside storage. The interior of the box offers plenty of room (enough to toss your tool bag in) and a plastic tray for storage. Meanwhile, the top of the lid has cargo tie-downs, offering even more space to secure gear, tools, or even a cargo net. Like most people, we can always use extra space to stash items and tie them down.
The lid also has auto-lift shocks and full-seal weather stripping. Just keep in mind that the cargo tie-down may limit how far the lid can open, so be sure to position it correctly in the bed, leaving space where needed.
Get the Tractor Supply Co. truck tool box at Tractor Supply Co.
Best Swing
UnderCover SwingCase Truck Tool Box
What We Like
- Convenient swing-away storage
- Up to 75 pounds of capacity
- Lockable lid for security
What We Don’t Like
- Requires drilling to mount
Specs
- Type Swing
- Material ABS plastic
- Capacity Varies
We’re always keen on making the most of our available space, which is why the adaptability of the SwingCase tool box from UnderCover appeals to us. This tool box features ABS plastic construction, preventing the weather or corrosion from affecting its durability. The SwingCase also features a lockable lid for improved security.
This side-mount tool box has a 75-pound capacity, so we wouldn’t advise overloading it with heavy tools, but it’s perfect for storing items like tow straps, tools, and sports equipment. A simple tug on the lever releases the tool box, which swings out for easy access. It also has a perimeter moisture seal and a plastic tray organizer inside.
This box comes in a range of sizes to fit a variety of trucks, including some midsize pickups. Keep in mind that installing this model does require some drilling into the truck bed, which could be a deterrent for some folks.
Get the UnderCover truck tool box on Amazon, Walmart, or Napa.
Covers
TruXedo TonneauMate Truck Tool Box
What We Like
- Sits below the tonneau cover
- Hangs from the side rails
- Lightweight plastic truck bed tool box
- Built-in lock for additional security
What We Don’t Like
- Less volume than some other models due to design
Specs
- Type Tonneau compatible
- Material ABS plastic
- Capacity Depends on truck model
Until recently, truck owners had to choose between a tool box or a tonneau cover, as standard crossover and saddle boxes got in the way. But with the TruXedo TonneauMate, that’s no longer an issue. This tonneau cover-compatible tool box fits underneath the tonneau cover and keeps tools, sports equipment, and other gear organized, and we think that’s pretty slick.
This ABS plastic tool box can mount anywhere along the truck bed rails, so users can position it wherever is most convenient for their tonneau cover style. It has a built-in lock for additional security, and its elevated design leaves room under the box for additional tool storage (though it doesn’t have as much space inside as other tool boxes).
These boxes are designed individually to fit specific truck models, so the capacity will depend on the vehicle. If you’re going for a clean look that includes storage, we think the TruXedo is just the ticket.
Get the TruXedo truck tool box from Amazon, Walmart, or RealTruck.
Jump To Our Top Picks
How We Chose and Tested the Best Truck Tool Boxes
| Products tested | 4 |
| Time spent testing | 2 weeks of direct testing, then ongoing use |
| Tests performed | 4 |
| Price range | $100 to $1,200 |
We’ve owned trucks for years, and we’ve been through our share of shoddy truck tool boxes. In choosing the models for this list, we first looked at the boxes that were durable and highly rated. Our first tentative list had 30 tool boxes, and we narrowed that down to seven that came highly recommended by users.
We then selected four truck tool boxes with various features for hands-on testing. We put a high emphasis on security, design, installation, and weather resistance.
In actual testing, we assessed each tool box on build quality, how easy it was to mount (if applicable), and whether the lid kept our tools safe and secure from the elements. To test for water resistance, we loaded all the tool boxes in the back of the truck and then drove through the automatic car wash. We tested the locks for ease of use and security, and we noted perks like slow-closing lids.
We awarded points based on a rubric—the better a tool box performed on a test or assessment, the higher the points. After testing, we averaged the points to determine our top pick and to categorize the others according to their best uses.
| Installation | Security | Durability | Value | |
| Weather Guard | 4.8 | 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
| Tuffiom | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5 | 4.5 |
| Montezuma | 5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.8 |
| BatoneCo | 5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
What to Consider When Choosing a Truck Tool Box
While the concept of a truck tool box is simple, there are some crucial elements to consider before buying. We’ve identified some of the most important considerations to keep in mind when shopping. Before you start looking, take precise measurements of your truck bed and memorize the make and model—you’ll need this information to get the right tool box for your truck.
Type
Several types of truck tool boxes are available, including crossover, saddle, side rail, swing, and dual-lid models. Some models even fit under tonneau covers.
- Crossover tool boxes stretch from one side rail to the other. They typically sit near the back of the truck cab, and they’re the most common truck tool box variety. They carry a lot of stuff, but they can also take up quite a bit of space in the truck bed.
- Saddle tool boxes are similar to crossover tool boxes except that they take up less of the truck bed’s corners, allowing for a bit more storage inside of the bed.
- Side-rail tool boxes sit on the side rails of the truck. These truck side tool boxes are most often used by contractors, and they can provide quite a bit of extra storage, depending on the size.
- Swing tool boxes attach to the side of the truck bed near the tailgate. These boxes are hinged and swing out from the bed of the truck. They don’t offer a ton of storage but they do fold out of the way easily.
- Dual-lid tool boxes are great for folks who don’t want to climb into the bed of their truck to get something or venture side to side to close the box. These boxes have winged lids that open from the side of the box to provide access to the items inside.
- Tonneau-compatible tool boxes sit under the height of the bed rail. This allows the tonneau cover to lay over the top of the box for extra security and weather protection.
Note: Folks who’d prefer not to mount a tool box to their truck bed do have other options. Rolling tool boxes are easy to transport from a garage to a vehicle, though they can be heavy to lift.
Capacity
It is important to choose a tool box large enough for your needs. To start, consider which tools or gear you’re most likely to keep in the truck. This may include some hand tools, power tools, and longer items like levels or sledgehammers. Storage capacities may range from around 6.5 cubic feet to over 10 cubic feet, so choosing a box that meets your needs shouldn’t be difficult.
Understand that there are tool boxes specially designed for either midsize or full-size trucks. Full-size truck boxes range from around 69 to 72 inches in width, while midsize boxes are often around 60 to 63 inches wide.
Security
Tools aren’t only expensive—for many of us, they also hold sentimental value. While having a tool break during use is an annoyance, having one stolen is a harder loss to stomach. While no truck bed tool box is 100 percent secure, there are points to consider.
First, look for tool boxes made from heavy-duty metal or advanced polymers for ultimate security. Metal tool boxes for trucks won’t bend or snap, and if they do, it will take so much effort that the would-be thief will likely move on beforehand. Also, look for tool boxes with locks and heavy-duty handles if security is an important factor.
Material and Finish
The most common materials for truck tool boxes are steel, aluminum, and plastic. Advanced polymers also exist now, and each of these materials has its pros and cons.
- Steel tool boxes are strong and secure. They’re also very heavy and prone to rust.
- Aluminum boxes are lightweight and won’t rust, but they’re more likely to dent than steel.
- Plastic tool boxes are inexpensive, but they’re not the best quality. They can become brittle in cold temperatures and warp in hot temperatures. However, they don’t rust.
- Advanced polymers, such as those used for football helmets, are extremely durable, weather-resistant, and secure. They tend to be expensive, and they can expand and contract like plastic tool boxes, but they’re less likely to become brittle.
Aside from the material, you’ll want to also consider the finish. Steel tool boxes require a durable weather-resistant finish, and these boxes are typically available in white or black colors. Aluminum tool boxes are naturally weather-resistant, so they’re often available in “bright” (bare metal appearance) or black. Plastic tool boxes and those made from polymers are often black as well.
Other materials can also increase a tool box’s weather resistance. Rubber or silicone weatherstripping can prevent wind-driven rain from entering the box, even at highway speeds.
Installation
Installing a standard truck tool box is typically straightforward. The installer lays the tool box across the bed rails, drops a few bolts through adjustable slats on the inside of the box, and attaches hooks to the bottom of the bolts. Once tightened, the hooks catch the underside of the bed rail.
Other boxes are easy to install as well. Side-rail tool boxes often have feet that rest against the truck bed. Installation is similar, but the feet provide more stability. Swing boxes have hinges that mount to the truck bed. The tool box then attaches to the hinge, but it can be removed easily when necessary. Boxes that are compatible with tonneau covers have hardware that suspends them from the bed rail in some cases.
FAQs
That might be a lot of information about the best truck tool boxes, but there could still be some questions lingering. The following are some of the most commonly asked questions about truck tool boxes. Be sure to check for an answer to your question listed below.
If you’re someone who transports tools in their truck frequently, it may be a good idea. Tools stored in a good tool box will be safe from the elements and less likely to get stolen from the bed of a truck.
Most folks use their truck tool boxes for tools, but sports equipment, outdoor gear like fishing and camping equipment, or even an emergency road safety kit and supplies will fit inside a tool box.
No truck tool box is 100 percent secure. With enough time, someone can break into any of them and remove the items from inside. However, a high-quality truck tool box will be harder to break into, and most would-be thieves will move on to an easier target.
Truck tool boxes come in a range of sizes, but they generally fall into two categories: full size and midsize. Most full-size boxes will fit full-size trucks, and midsize boxes fit most midsize trucks. Rams, Silverados, Tundras, Titans, and F-Series trucks will typically use full-size boxes, while Tacomas, Frontiers, Rangers, and Colorados will require midsize.
Low-profile tool boxes have lower-sitting lids that stick up from the bed less than standard lids. This prevents the tool box from detracting from the truck’s look as much as a big, bulky box, but it can sacrifice storage space.
Aluminum is typically the best—it’s durable, lightweight, and rust-resistant.
If it’s a mounted tool box, it should fit securely without moving. If it’s a portable tool box, it should be secured with ratchet straps during transportation.
Clean it periodically, and lubricate locks and hinges when necessary to keep them operating smoothly.
Meet the Tester
Glenda Taylor is a contractor, product tester, and writer focusing primarily on construction, DIY tools, and home appliances. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.
Additional research provided by Tom Scalisi
