We consulted input from publications like The Spruce and, as well as user reviews, to determine the best truck toolboxes on the market. Many retailers offer a “fit checker” tool on the product listings for these boxes that helps you determine if they'll fit your vehicle. Check for truck style, size, and compatibility, and make sure to read the dimensions carefully. To determine how much space you need in your truck bed toolbox, compare your available bed space with the tools or gear you need to transport.

Plastic boxes are lightweight and easy to clean, but generally not as durable as metal boxes. Steel is stronger, but significantly heavier and vulnerable to rust, although many steel boxes, especially the higher-end ones, have a rust-resistant coatings. I recommend aluminum, steel, or heavy-duty plastic for a truck bed box.Īluminum is lighter than steel, doesn’t rust, and tends to have a relatively long lifespan, but some boxes use a thin-gauge metal that dents easily. MaterialĪs a contractor in the Northeast, I often worked in challenging weather conditions and needed equipment designed to withstand all types of weather without putting our tools at risk. We generally prefer crossover boxes, but if you need to move tools and supplies from one vehicle or workspace to another frequently, chest toolboxes offer greater portability. The model type that’s best for you is partly a matter of personal preference, but also depends on what else you need to fit in your truck bed. Some options are simply heavy-duty tool chests you can remove for jobs.

Side-mounted toolboxes sit on one side or edge of the truck bed, sometimes with a curved design to fit over the wheel well.

Crossover toolboxes, also known as saddle boxes, sit on opposite edges of the truck bed flush with the back of the cab, leaving a small space underneath for long items like lumber.

Keep in mind that since these items are heavy and large, they’re sometimes damaged in shipping, so make sure to inspect your truck toolbox before you install it. In assessing a variety of truck toolboxes, we focused on four high-priority criteria: type, storage space, material, and installation.

Dodge tool box bed