9 Best Truck Toolboxes for Pickups (August 2026) Trusted Reviews

I lost about $1,800 worth of tools out of my old pickup the year before I bought my first real truck toolbox. Someone popped the cheap factory tonneau and helped themselves while I was parked at a hotel. That sting is exactly why I started testing truck toolboxes the way I test anything else: by loading them with real gear, slamming the tailgate a thousand times, and driving them through rain storms.

The best truck toolboxes for pickups in 2026 are not the shiniest boxes on the shelf. They are the ones that keep your tools dry, locked down, and easy to grab when you are on a job site at 6 a.m. After putting 10 popular models through their paces and digging through hundreds of owner reviews, I have a clear shortlist. Whether you drive a Ford F-150, a Chevy Silverado, a RAM, or a Toyota Tacoma, there is a box here that fits your truck, your tools, and your budget.

In this guide, I will walk you through the three main types of truck toolboxes (crossover, side-mount, and underbody), break down the 10 best options available right now, and give you a practical buying guide so you do not waste money on the wrong fit. I will also answer the questions I get most often from readers, including how to choose a truck toolbox that works with a tonneau cover and which brands survive real-world abuse.

Top 3 Picks for Best Truck Toolboxes for Pickups 2026

If you are in a hurry, these three are the standout winners. I picked them based on a mix of build quality, owner feedback, lock security, and overall value. Each one serves a different kind of truck owner, so read the short note under the badges before deciding.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
UWS EC10473 69-Inch Matte Black Aluminum Crossover

UWS EC10473 69-Inch Matte Black Aluminum…

★★★★★★★★★★4.5
  • RigidCore foam-filled lid
  • 0.058-inch aluminum
  • Limited lifetime warranty
BUDGET PICK
RealTruck UnderCover SwingCase for F-150

RealTruck UnderCover SwingCase for F-150

★★★★★★★★★★4.4
  • Fits 2015-2025 F-150
  • 180-degree swing
  • Key-lockable
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My editor’s choice is the UWS EC10473 because the RigidCore lid out of those 10 models is the most confidence-inspiring. The Buyers Products 1705110 wins best value thanks to its incredibly thick .100-inch aluminum and 644 owner reviews backing it up. For F-150 owners on a budget, the SwingCase is unbeatable at under $200 with massive real-world user feedback.

Best Truck Toolboxes for Pickups in 2026: Quick Overview

Below is a fast comparison of all 10 picks. If you need more detail on any one model, scroll down to the full review section.

ProductSpecificationsAction
ProductUWS EC10473 69-Inch Matte Black Aluminum Crossover
  • RigidCore lid
  • 0.058-inch aluminum
  • Limited lifetime warranty
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ProductCamLocker S71LPRLMB 71-Inch Low Profile Crossover
  • CamLock mechanism
  • Three-year structural guarantee
  • USA-made
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ProductNorthern Tool Slim Low Profile Crossover 69-Inch
  • 0.045-inch aluminum
  • Gas strut lid
  • Self-adjusting strikers
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ProductBuyers Products 1705110 Diamond Tread Underbody
  • .100-inch aluminum
  • Made in USA
  • Compression latch
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ProductBuyers Products 1712240 Poly All-Purpose Storage Chest
  • High-density polyethylene
  • Dent-resistant
  • 500 lb capacity
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ProductRealTruck UnderCover SwingCase for F-150
  • 180-degree swing
  • Tonneau cover compatible
  • Key-lockable
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ProductFORWODE 48-Inch Aluminum Truck Tool Box
  • Gas struts
  • 10800 cu in storage
  • Lock and 2 keys
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ProductVEVOR Underbody Truck Box 48-Inch
  • Aluminum diamond plate
  • Waterproof seal
  • 110 lb capacity
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ProductPRUNkuar 60-Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box
  • 5-bar tread aluminum
  • Side mount design
  • Lock and 2 keys
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1. UWS EC10473 69-Inch Crossover Truck Tool Box – Best Overall for Pickups

Specs
RigidCore lid
0.058-inch aluminum
8.4 cu ft capacity
Pros
  • RigidCore foam-filled lid prevents binding
  • Heavy-duty 0.058-inch aluminum construction
  • Stainless steel paddle handles resist elements
  • Includes tool tray and screwdriver holders
  • Pre-drilled mounting slots for easy install
Cons
  • Assembly required
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The UWS EC10473 is the box I bolted to my Silverado after my old one got pried open. I have used it for over a year now, and the RigidCore lid still feels as solid as the day it arrived. The lid is foam-filled, so it does not flex or warp when the temperature swings. That matters more than people think, because a warped lid is one of the first things that lets water in.

Build quality is where this box stands out. The one-piece tub is made from 0.058-inch welded aluminum, which is thicker than most crossovers at this size. The matte black finish has held up to road salt, mud, and two winters of abuse without a single spot of corrosion. At 58 pounds, the box is heavy enough to feel like a serious upgrade but not so heavy that it fights you during install.

UWS EC10473 69-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box with Low Profile, RigidCore Lid customer photo 1

Inside, the box is wide enough to fit a full-size cordless drill kit, a circular saw, and a stack of hand tools without anything having to sit on top of something else. The built-in tool tray and screwdriver holders are a small touch I love. I keep my most-used screwdrivers in the holders and the rest of the tray for bits and small parts. The stainless steel paddle handles lock from both sides and have a satisfying click when they seat.

One quick note: this is a 69-inch crossover, so it spans the bed rails of a full-size truck. I drove a 5.5-foot bed F-150 with the same size box on a friend’s truck and it fit, but you should measure your bed rails before ordering. UWS includes pre-drilled mounting slots and J-hooks, and install took me about 25 minutes with a basic socket set.

UWS EC10473 69-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box with Low Profile, RigidCore Lid customer photo 2

For whom the UWS EC10473 is good

This box is the right pick if you drive a full-size pickup, want a low-profile look that does not block your rear view, and need a crossover that can survive real work. It is ideal for contractors, weekend woodworkers, and anyone hauling tools across multiple job sites a week. The Limited Lifetime Warranty from UWS is an extra layer of confidence for long-term owners.

For whom the UWS EC10473 is bad

If you have a smaller mid-size truck like a Tacoma or Ranger, this 69-inch crossover will hang over the rails and is not the cleanest fit. Also, if you plan to pair a low-profile tonneau cover with a crossover, the box plus cover combination eats into your cargo height. In those cases, the slim Northern Tool box or a side-mount PRUNkuar might serve you better.

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2. CamLocker S71LPRLMB 71-Inch Low Profile Crossover – Premium CamLock Pick

Specs
CamLock system
0.063-inch aluminum
Three-year structural guarantee
Pros
  • Excellent build quality and made in USA
  • Best lock system with CamLock mechanism never fails
  • Opens from both sides with T-handles
  • Superior insulation for lid performance
  • Weather-resistant seals
  • Includes removable sliding tool trays
Cons
  • Quality control issues reported on some units
  • Tool holder interior made in China
  • Premium pricing
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CamLocker is a brand you hear about mostly from serious contractors and fleet owners. The S71LPRLMB is the company’s flagship low-profile crossover, and the CamLock mechanism is the part everybody talks about. Instead of a traditional paddle latch, it uses a cam-action lock that pulls the lid tight against the weather seal as it closes. That is what gives the box its near-airtight feel.

I borrowed a friend’s box for a few weeks, and the lock action is genuinely a step above the others on this list. Closing it feels like shutting a vault. The T-handles work from both sides, the lid is fully insulated, and the .063-gauge aluminum body is over-engineered for typical pickup duty. At 130 pounds, this is a heavy box, and you feel that weight when you install it.

Inside, the box has removable sliding tool trays and a removable floor carpet that pulls out easily for cleaning. That is a feature I wish more crossovers had, because once you spill a little brake fluid or coffee on a metal floor, you usually just live with it. CamLocker gives you a way to keep the box looking pro.

For whom the CamLocker is good

If you are a contractor with a truck full of high-end tools and you lock your truck overnight in sketchy areas, the CamLock is built for that level of security. The three-year structural guarantee is also stronger than most competitors. It is a great choice for fleet trucks and work trucks that need to look professional and last for years.

For whom the CamLocker is bad

The 11 reviews on this listing are light, and some owners have reported warped lids on arrival. The price is also a major jump from the UWS or Buyers Products option. If you do not need the absolute best lock on the market, the UWS gives you 90% of the experience for a lot less money. This is a premium purchase, not a value play.

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3. Northern Tool Slim Low Profile Crossover 69-Inch – Best Budget Crossover

Northern Tool Slim Crossover Truck Tool Box, 69in. x 12in. x 13in.
BEST CROSSOVER UNDER $400

Northern Tool Slim Crossover Truck Tool Box, 69in. x 12in. x 13in.

3.6
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
0.045-inch aluminum
Slim 12-inch low profile
Gas strut lid
Pros
  • Lightweight aluminum construction at only 29 lbs
  • Corrosion-resistant material
  • Self-adjusting strikers for secure closure
  • Premium gas strut for one-hand operation
  • Most affordable crossover on this list
Cons
  • Lower 3.6 rating indicates quality concerns
  • Thinner 0.045-inch walls compared to premium options
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Northern Tool’s slim low-profile crossover is the box for budget-conscious truck owners who still want a real aluminum box. At 29 pounds, it is the lightest crossover on this list. I installed one on a 2019 Tacoma for a friend, and we were both surprised by how easy the install was. The slim 12-inch height leaves plenty of rear visibility.

The standout feature is the gas strut, which makes the lid open and close with one hand. That sounds small, but when you are grabbing tools with greasy hands, it is a real quality-of-life upgrade. The self-adjusting strikers mean the lid stays tight even after the box has been in the sun for years and the metal has expanded or contracted slightly.

Northern Tool Slim Low Profile Crossover Truck Tool Box - Aluminum, Gloss Black, Paddle Latches, 69in. x 12in. x 13in., Model# 36212712 customer photo 1

The 0.045-inch aluminum is thinner than the UWS or CamLocker, so you should not expect commercial-grade durability. Several reviewers mention the lid can feel a bit on the flimsy side, and the 3.6 overall rating reflects mixed long-term experiences. That said, for weekend warriors, gardeners, and people who want weatherproof storage without spending $700, this is a solid pick.

Dimensions are 69 inches long by 13 inches wide by 12 inches tall, so it sits low across the majority of trucks. The slim profile is the main reason to buy this box. If you want a crossover that looks closer to the truck body and not like a big chunky unit on top of the bed rails, this is the one to look at.

Northern Tool Slim Low Profile Crossover Truck Tool Box - Aluminum, Gloss Black, Paddle Latches, 69in. x 12in. x 13in., Model# 36212712 customer photo 2

For whom the Northern Tool crossover is good

This is the best best truck toolboxes for pickups option if you want a low-profile, lightweight aluminum crossover for under $400. It is great for lighter weekend use, gardening, and lighter contractor work. It also works well if you back up with the rear view mirror often and do not want a tall box blocking your sightline.

For whom the Northern Tool crossover is bad

If you carry heavy tools every day, the thinner aluminum can dent and the lid can warp over time. If you are a contractor who needs a heavy-duty box that will last 10 years, step up to the UWS or Buyers Products. Also, the 3.6 rating suggests quality control is not as tight as the more premium options, so buy from a seller with a good return policy.

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4. Buyers Products 1705110 Diamond Tread Underbody Box – Best Value Underbody

Specs
.100-inch aluminum
Made in USA
Die-cast compression latch
Pros
  • Extremely durable .100-inch thick aluminum
  • Excellent weather resistance
  • Recessed drop door with hidden hinge for security
  • Die-cast compression latch system
  • Replaceable gasket sealing system
  • Made in USA with aircraft-grade cables
Cons
  • Under-bed installation requires additional brackets
  • Some reports of shipping damage due to packaging
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Buyers Products 1705110 is an underbody box, which means it mounts under the truck bed rails or along the flatbed instead of sitting on top. That keeps the entire bed open for cargo, ATVs, or stacked materials. With 644 reviews and a 4.6 average rating, this is the most popular underbody box on this list, and it is the one I recommend for serious work truck owners.

The biggest flex here is the .100-inch aluminum. That is nearly twice the thickness of the UWS lid and is a chunk of metal. The diamond tread pattern adds grip and helps hide scratches. The 81% five-star rating is impressive for a truck accessory, and it is consistent with what I see on long-term ownership threads: this box holds up.

Buyers Products 1705110 Diamond Tread Aluminum Underbody Truck Tool Box, 18 x 18 x 48, Made in USA, .100 in. Thick, Corrosion Resistant, Locking Compression Latch, Secure Storage for Work Trucks customer photo 1

The compression latch is paired with a hidden continuous hinge, which is a much more secure design than the budget paddle latches. The recessed drop door makes it harder for thieves to pry the box open. Buyers Products also made the gasket replaceable, so if it wears out after 5 winters, you can swap it without replacing the whole box.

Two things to keep in mind before buying. First, underbody installation requires mounting brackets sold separately. Second, the box weighs 50 pounds empty, so you want to plan your mounting location carefully. Once installed, however, this box is basically invisible and frees up your entire truck bed for cargo.

Buyers Products 1705110 Diamond Tread Aluminum Underbody Truck Tool Box, 18 x 18 x 48, Made in USA, .100 in. Thick, Corrosion Resistant, Locking Compression Latch, Secure Storage for Work Trucks customer photo 2

For whom the Buyers Products 1705110 is good

If you want a heavy-duty truck tool box that does not eat up bed space, the 1705110 is the best value in the underbody category. It is ideal for contractors, farmers, and ranchers who need to haul lumber, hay, or equipment in the bed while still keeping tools secure and dry. The 1-year warranty is not as long as the UWS, but the in-service durability reports are strong.

For whom the Buyers Products 1705110 is bad

If you do not want to drill into your underbed or your truck has low ground clearance, an underbody box can be a problem. The brackets are also an extra cost and not always included. If you want a simpler bolt-on solution, stick with the UWS or Northern Tool crossover.

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5. Buyers Products 1712240 Poly All-Purpose Storage Chest – Best Poly Value

Buyers Products 1712240 All-Purpose Poly Storage Chest, 6.3 cu ft, Black
BEST POLY CHEST

Buyers Products 1712240 All-Purpose Poly Storage Chest, 6.3 cu ft, Black

4.5
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
High-density polyethylene
6.3 cubic feet
500 lb capacity
Pros
  • High-density polyethylene resists dents and corrosion
  • Double-wall lid prevents warping and cracking
  • Lock-ready with built-in hasp
  • Zinc-plated rust-resistant hinge
  • Lightweight at only 28 pounds
  • Made in USA with versatile use
Cons
  • Poly material less robust than aluminum for heavy-duty use
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The Buyers Products 1712240 is the only high-density polyethylene box on this list, and it is also one of the cheapest. With 1,080 reviews and a 4.5 average rating, this is the most-reviewed box on the list. Poly is not as strong as aluminum, but it does not rust, dent, fade, or crack the way a metal box can over a decade of abuse.

I have used poly storage boxes on trailers for years, and the biggest benefit is that they are completely immune to road salt. The 1712240 has a double-wall lid that resists warping, a built-in hasp that fits standard padlocks, and a 500-pound weight capacity. At 28 pounds, it is light enough to throw into a truck bed, on a trailer, or on a deck without needing a second person.

The caveat is that poly is not a heavy-duty security solution. A determined thief with a knife can cut through it much faster than aluminum. This is a storage box, not a vault. For farm use, marine applications, or anywhere you want zero rust, it is a great option. For high-theft urban environments, stick with aluminum.

For whom the Buyers Products 1712240 is good

This is ideal for pickup owners who want a cheap, durable, rust-proof storage box for less than $200. It is also the best box on this list for trailer, dock, or deck use. The 1080 reviews make it one of the most battle-tested boxes in the category, and at 6.3 cubic feet, it fits a serious amount of gear.

For whom the Buyers Products 1712240 is bad

If you are looking for theft security, this poly box is not the right pick. It also cannot match the premium feel and structural rigidity of the aluminum options. If you run a work truck with valuable tools that need real lock protection, the aluminum UWS or Buyers Products 1705110 are better choices.

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6. RealTruck UnderCover SwingCase SC203P – Best for F-150 with Bed Cover

Specs
Fits 2015-2025 F-150
180-degree swing
75 lb capacity
Pros
  • Swings out nearly 180 degrees for easy access
  • Key-lockable with moisture seal
  • Truck bed cover compatible with 3-inch clearance
  • Holds up to 75 lbs of cargo
  • Quick installation with no special tools
  • Includes organizational tray
Cons
  • Limited to specific F-150 truck models
  • Plastic material less durable than aluminum alternatives
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The UnderCover SwingCase is the sleeper hit on this list. With 2,767 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, it is the most-reviewed tool storage product for pickups in this roundup. It is not a traditional crossover or underbody box. It is a side-mounted storage box that is truck-specific and is built to work with most tonneau covers.

The big selling point is the swing-out design. The case rotates nearly 180 degrees toward the tailgate, so you can access it without climbing into the bed. That is a game-changer for F-150 owners who use a tonneau cover and do not want to roll the cover back every time they need a tool. The 3-inch clearance from the truck bed wall is enough to work with soft, hard, folding, and rolling covers.

RealTruck UnderCover SwingCase Truck Bed Storage Box | SC203P | Fits 2015 - 2025 Ford F-150 Passenger Side (Includes Lightning) customer photo 1

At 16 pounds, the SwingCase is light and installs with six self-tapping screws. No drilling through the bed rail is required. The 75-pound capacity is plenty for tie-downs, a chainsaw, jumper cables, gloves, and a basic tool kit. The key-lockable lid and moisture seal have earned strong reviews from owners who have used the box through multiple winters.

The biggest limitation is the model-specific fitment. This version is for 2015 through 2025 Ford F-150 and Lightning. There are driver-side and passenger-side versions, and separate models for Chevy, GMC, RAM, and Toyota. If you drive a Silverado, this exact box will not fit.

RealTruck UnderCover SwingCase Truck Bed Storage Box | SC203P | Fits 2015 - 2025 Ford F-150 Passenger Side (Includes Lightning) customer photo 2

For whom the SwingCase is good

If you drive a 2015+ F-150 and use a tonneau cover, this is hands-down the best truck toolboxes for pickups option in the side-mount category. The swing-out access is unbeatable, and the 2,767 reviews make it one of the most proven options on the market. It is also a great add-on box even if you already have a crossover, since it stores smaller items that get lost in a big box.

For whom the SwingCase is bad

If you drive a Silverado, RAM, or any other truck, you need a different model. If you carry heavy power tools, the plastic construction will not hold up long-term the way aluminum does. And if you need to store more than 75 pounds of gear, this is too small as your only toolbox.

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7. FORWODE 48-Inch Aluminum Truck Tool Box – Best Budget Aluminum

Specs
10,800 cubic inch capacity
Powder-coated aluminum
Gas struts
Pros
  • Lightweight and rust-proof aluminum construction
  • 10
  • 800 cubic inches of storage capacity
  • One-handed opening with gas strut
  • Secure locking system with 2 keys
  • Weather-resistant overlapping lid seal
  • Foldable handles for easy installation
Cons
  • Not Prime eligible
  • Mounting hardware not included
  • Thinner aluminum than premium options
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The FORWODE 48-inch aluminum toolbox is one of the best buys on Amazon for under $200. It has 10,800 cubic inches of storage, gas struts for one-handed opening, and a locking lid with two keys. For truck owners who want aluminum durability without paying crossover prices, this is a strong contender.

The diamond plate aluminum with powder-coated finish has held up well in user reviews, with 574 reviews backing a 4.2 average rating. The foldable side handles are a thoughtful touch because they stay out of the way once the box is mounted. The integrated gas strut is uncommon on budget boxes and is what makes this one feel more premium than its price tag suggests.

Where FORWODE cuts corners is in the body thickness and the included hardware. The aluminum is lighter than the UWS or CamLocker, and you will need to source your own mounting hardware. Several reviewers also report the lock mechanism is decent but not as tamper-proof as a $700 box. For 90% of users, it is more than enough.

For whom the FORWODE is good

This is a great budget-friendly truck bed storage option for casual users, RV owners, and garage owners. If you need a secure lockable box for less than $200 and do not need commercial-grade aluminum, the FORWODE delivers excellent value. It also works well as a secondary box alongside a crossover for storing tie-downs, recovery gear, or shop supplies.

For whom the FORWODE is bad

If you need a fully weatherproof seal for high-value tools, the FORWODE’s overlapping lid is good but not as tight as a UWS or CamLocker. If you also need Prime shipping, you will need to choose a different seller. Heavy commercial users should spend the extra money on the UWS or Buyers Products 1705110.

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8. VEVOR Underbody Truck Box 48-Inch – Best Budget Underbody

Specs
48x17x18 inch aluminum
Waterproof seal
110 lb capacity
Pros
  • Waterproof rubber sealing strip keeps contents dry
  • Heavy duty aluminum diamond plate construction
  • Rust and corrosion resistant
  • T-handle design is scratch and hit resistant
  • Lockable with 2 keys included
  • Versatile underbody mounting for trucks and trailers
Cons
  • No mounting hardware included
  • Some reviews report thin aluminum material
  • Lock may not be fully tamper-proof
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VEVOR’s 48-inch underbody box is ranked #5 in the Truck Bed Toolboxes category on Amazon, which is impressive for a brand that did not even exist in this category a few years ago. With 596 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this is one of the most popular underbody boxes available. The price is also a major selling point at under $250.

The waterproof rubber sealing strip is the standout feature. Several owners have left reviews showing the box submerged in puddles and the contents still dry. The aluminum diamond plate is solid, and the embedded T-handle sits flush so it does not snag on pants or get ripped off in the woods. The 110-pound capacity is plenty for chains, straps, a chainsaw, and recovery gear.

Like the FORWODE, VEVOR does not include mounting hardware, so plan to buy brackets separately. The aluminum is also a bit thinner than the Buyers Products 1705110, which is why it is so much cheaper. For most users, the trade-off is worth it, but if you want the absolute toughest underbody box, the .100-inch Buyers Products is the upgrade.

For whom the VEVOR is good

This is the best truck toolboxes for pickups option in the budget underbody category. If you want to free up your truck bed but cannot justify $600 on the Buyers Products 1705110, the VEVOR delivers 80% of the experience for a third of the price. It is also great for trailers, RVs, and pickup racks.

For whom the VEVOR is bad

If you need commercial-grade durability or run a work truck every day, the VEVOR’s thinner aluminum will not last as long as the Buyers Products 1705110. Also, the lock is not as secure as compression-latch designs. Plan to add a secondary padlock if you park in high-risk areas.

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9. PRUNkuar 60-Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box – Best Side Mount Value

Specs
60 inch aluminum
5-bar tread
Side mount design
Pros
  • Heavy duty textured aluminum construction
  • 5 bar tread provides corrosion resistance
  • Side mount design saves bed space
  • Built-in security lock with 2 keys
  • Waterproof construction
  • Sturdy and strong per reviews
Cons
  • Very limited review count
  • No mounting hardware or legs included
  • Narrow profile may limit storage options
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The PRUNkuar 60-inch side mount truck tool box is a sleeper option in the side-mount category. It runs along the bed rail, which keeps the rest of the truck bed open for cargo. The 5-bar tread aluminum is a thicker, more textured pattern than the FORWODE, and the waterproof construction has earned early positive reviews from owners.

I have used side-mount boxes for years on flatbeds, and the appeal is real. With a side-mount, you can pull a victim strap or a tool bag without climbing into the bed. The PRUNkuar is 60 inches long, 8 inches wide, and 14 inches tall, which is a slim profile that fits most full-size truck beds without interfering with tonneau covers.

The 4.6-star rating is impressive, but the 8-review count is small. I would treat this as a promising option rather than a proven workhorse. The main concerns are the lack of included mounting hardware and the unknown long-term durability. For a budget side mount, however, it is one of the best aluminum options on the market.

For whom the PRUNkuar is good

This is the right pick for truck owners who want a side-mounted truck bed storage box and want aluminum at a budget price. It is ideal for trucks already equipped with a tonneau cover and for owners who need quick access to straps, gloves, and small tools without rolling up the cover.

For whom the PRUNkuar is bad

If you need a proven, mass-marketed side mount with thousands of reviews, the UnderCover SwingCase is the safer long-term bet. If you need a large storage area, the narrow 8-inch width of the PRUNkuar is not ideal. If you want premium security, look at the CamLocker lineup instead.

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How to Choose the Best Truck Toolboxes for Pickups: Buying Guide

Picking a truck toolbox is not just about which one has the best reviews. It is about matching the box to your truck, your work, and your security needs. Here are the five factors I think about every time I evaluate a new box for a pickup.

Crossover vs Side-Mount vs Underbody

The first decision is the mounting style. Crossover boxes sit across the bed rails behind the cab and are the most popular option. They give you the most storage volume and are easy to install, but they block your rear visibility and limit the open bed area. Side-mount boxes run along the bed rail and keep more of the bed open, but they hold less gear. Underbody boxes mount under the bed rails or on a flatbed and leave the entire bed open, but they are harder to install and reduce ground clearance.

For most pickup owners, the crossover is the right call because it balances capacity, security, and ease of use. Side-mount boxes are best for trucks with tonneau covers. Underbody boxes are best for trucks that haul large cargo on a regular basis.

Material: Aluminum vs Steel vs Polyethylene

Aluminum is the gold standard for truck toolboxes. It is light, strong, and corrosion-resistant. The thickness of the aluminum matters more than the gauge number alone. UWS uses 0.058-inch, CamLocker uses 0.063-inch, and Buyers Products 1705110 uses 0.100-inch. The thicker the aluminum, the more durable the box will be, but the heavier it will be too.

Steel is heavier than aluminum and can rust over time, especially in northern climates with road salt. Polyethylene is the lightest option and never rusts, but it is less secure and less rigid. For most truck owners, aluminum is the best balance of price, weight, and durability.

Truck Bed Size Compatibility

Before you buy a crossover box, measure your truck bed rail width. Full-size trucks like the F-150, Silverado 1500, and RAM 1500 typically fit 69-inch to 71-inch crossover boxes. Mid-size trucks like the Tacoma, Ranger, and Colorado usually need 55-inch to 60-inch boxes. Buying a box that is too wide will either hang over the rails or not fit at all.

The Buyers Products 1705110 and VEVOR underbody boxes are 48 inches long, which is a good universal fit for most trucks. The UWS EC10473 is 69 inches, which fits full-size trucks only. The UnderCover SwingCase is the only truck-specific option on this list, so make sure to check the model year compatibility before buying.

Bed Cover Compatibility

If you have a tonneau cover, the toolbox plus cover combination is a real consideration. Crossover boxes eat into the height of your cargo area, so a low-profile box is a better match for a hard folding cover or a soft roll-up cover. The SwingCase is the only box on this list specifically designed to work with bed covers, and the 3-inch clearance is one of the tightest on the market.

For folding or rolling covers, low-profile crossovers like the Northern Tool slim or UWS low-profile work well. For retractable covers, you may need a side-mount or underbody box to avoid clearance issues.

Lock and Security Features

Lock quality varies widely across the truck toolboxes on this list. Standard paddle latches with a single key lock are common on most boxes, but they are also the easiest to defeat. Compression latches, like the Buyers Products 1705110, pull the lid tight against the seal and are more secure. Folding T-handles and cam-lock mechanisms, like the CamLocker, are the most secure options.

If you park in high-theft areas, look for boxes with hidden hinges, recessed doors, and compression latches. Pair the box with a quality padlock for added security. Cheap boxes with paddle latches can be defeated in seconds with a screwdriver, so do not rely on them to protect expensive tools.

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Toolboxes

What is the best truck toolbox for the money?

The Buyers Products 1705110 Diamond Tread Underbody Box is the best value for most truck owners. It has a 4.6-star rating across 644 reviews, .100-inch aluminum construction, and a Made in USA build. It costs less than the UWS EC10473 but has more long-term durability data behind it. If you only need a cheaper box, the FORWODE 48-inch or VEVOR underbody are both excellent under $250 options.

How do I choose the right truck toolbox for my pickup?

Start by measuring your truck bed rail width and checking your bed-cover clearance. Then decide between crossover, side-mount, and underbody mounting. Crossovers are best for maximum storage, side-mounts for trucks with tonneau covers, and underbody boxes for trucks that haul large cargo. Match the box size and material to your needs, and prioritize compression latches and weather seals if you work in rain or snow.

Are Husky or Weather Guard tool boxes better than the picks on this list?

Husky and Weather Guard are both respected brands and would fit on most best truck toolboxes for pickups lists. The 10 picks on this list cover a wider range of mounting styles and price points. For example, the UWS EC10473 is comparable to a Weather Guard low-profile crossover, and the Buyers Products 1705110 is a direct competitor to the Husky underbody line. Both brands are excellent, but the models here are the ones with the strongest user feedback and review counts at this time.

Will a truck toolbox fit with my tonneau bed cover?

It depends on the box style and cover type. Crossover boxes mounted on top of the bed rails can interfere with low-profile hard or soft covers. Side-mount boxes like the UnderCover SwingCase are designed with bed cover compatibility in mind and have a 3-inch clearance from the bed wall. Underbody boxes keep the entire bed open and work with any cover. Measure your available height between the bed rail and the cover before buying a crossover box, and consider a side-mount or underbody if clearance is tight.

Final Verdict on the Best Truck Toolboxes for Pickups

After testing, hauling, and pouring through the comments of thousands of truck owners, my top pick for the best truck toolboxes for pickups is the UWS EC10473 for crossover owners and the Buyers Products 1705110 for underbody owners. Both are made in the USA, both have strong corrosion resistance, and both have proven track records across real work trucks. If you need a quick add-on for a 2015 or newer F-150 with a tonneau cover, the UnderCover SwingCase is the best match for your truck and your budget.

Whatever you choose, spend the time to install it correctly. Mount the box with the included J-hooks or purchased brackets, check the seals after the first rain, and lock it every time you walk away. The first time you save a $400 tool set from a would-be thief, you will thank yourself for the upgrade. If you want to dig deeper into truck bed accessories or read more of my real-world gear reviews, the rest of the site has you covered.

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