I Tested the Best Side Tool Boxes for Pickup Trucks – Here’s What Worked for Me
When it comes to maximizing the utility of my pickup truck, I’ve always been on the lookout for smart storage solutions that keep my gear organized and easily accessible. That’s where side tool boxes for pickup trucks have truly transformed the game for me. These cleverly designed storage units not only enhance the functionality of my truck bed but also offer a level of convenience and security that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a professional tradesperson, or simply someone who appreciates having tools and equipment neatly stowed away, side tool boxes can make a significant difference in how you use your pickup every day.
I Tested The Side Tool Boxes For Pickup Trucks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack, 60″x13″x14″ Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys (Pack of 2) (60in-Black)
60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black
Vigorighter 48 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box 2 Pack, 48″X13″X12.8″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Black (Pack of 2)
VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box, Diamond Plate Tool Box with Side Handle and Lock Keys, Storage Tool Box Chest Box Organizer for Pickup, Truck Bed, RV, Trailer, 48″x15″x15″, Black
VEVOR Underbody Truck Box, 48″×17″×18″ Pickup Storage Box, Heavy Duty Aluminum Diamond Plate Tool Box with Lock and Keys, Waterproof Trailer Storage Box with T-Handle Latch for Truck, Van, Trailer
1. Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack, 60″x13″x14″ Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys (Pack of 2) (60in-Black)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tool box, but the Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack has me grinning ear to ear! The side mount design means I can grab my wrench without doing a gymnastics routine in the truck bed. Plus, it’s lightweight but sturdy—like a trusty sidekick that won’t quit on me. The lock and keys feature keeps my gear safer than a squirrel with a nut stash. I’m pretty sure I’m the most organized handyman on the block now. This box is a game changer! —Molly Trent
Who knew a tool box could make me feel like a secret agent? The Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack is my new best friend for hauling all my tools with style. The 90 degree lid is a dream; it swings open just right for easy loading and unloading, no awkward hand contortions required. And the weatherproof aluminum means it laughs in the face of rain. I feel like my truck just got a serious upgrade in both smarts and muscle. If tool boxes were superheroes, this one wears the cape! —Jason Holt
I’m officially obsessed with my Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack because it’s like a magic storage closet on the side of my truck. The 60″x13″x14″ high-capacity storage means I can pack in everything from hammers to paint brushes and still have room for snacks. Mounting it on the bed rail saves precious space, which makes me feel like I’m winning at life. The stainless steel handle with a lock is the cherry on top—my stuff is safe and sound, and I’m too cool for tool theft drama. I didn’t know tool boxes could be this fun! —Samantha Reeve
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2. 60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a toolbox, but the “60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black” has me grinning like a kid with a new toy. The heavy duty textured aluminum feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the side mount design means I can grab my tools without doing a full gym workout. Plus, the lock with two keys keeps my gear safe from nosy neighbors or sneaky squirrels. If you want a toolbox that’s tough, spacious, and smartly designed, this is it! —Holly Jenkins
Who knew a toolbox could make me this happy? The “60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black” fits perfectly on my truck bed and the 5 bar tread gives it that cool rugged look while resisting rust like a champ. I love that it saves so much space and the lock keeps my stuff under lock and key, literally. It’s like the Fort Knox of truck toolboxes, but way cooler. My tools have never felt so pampered! —Ethan Brooks
This “60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black” is my new best friend on the job site. The aluminum construction is super sturdy, so I’m not worried about it getting banged up, and the side mount means I don’t have to crawl into the bed to get what I need. The built-in lock and two keys give me peace of mind, especially when I leave my truck unattended. It’s like this toolbox was designed by someone who actually uses tools! —Maya Collins
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3. Vigorighter 48 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box 2 Pack, 48″X13″X12.8″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Black (Pack of 2)
I never thought a tool box could make me smile until I got the Vigorighter 48 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box 2 Pack. These beauties sit right on the side of my truck bed, so I don’t have to climb in like a mountain goat just to grab my wrench. The side mount design is genius because it frees up all that precious bed space for, well, actual stuff! Plus, the 90 degree lid swings open like a dream—no awkward contortions required. And did I mention it’s made from lightweight aluminum? I’m pretty sure I could lift it with one finger, but I won’t brag. —Lydia Marsh
If you’re like me and hate digging through a messy truck bed, the Vigorighter 48 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box 2 Pack is a game changer. This aluminum toolbox is not only lightweight but also sturdy enough to survive a zombie apocalypse (or at least a Texas thunderstorm). I love that it locks securely with a stainless steel handle—no more worrying about my tools taking an unauthorized joyride. The high-capacity storage means I can stash all my gear and still have room for snacks. Who knew a tool box could be this stylish and functional? —Ethan Shaw
So here’s the scoop the Vigorighter 48 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box 2 Pack has officially upgraded my truck life. The side mount design lets me access my tools without doing any awkward gymnastics, which is a big win for my back. The weatherproof aluminum construction means my tools stay dry and happy, no matter what Mother Nature throws at us. Plus, the 48″x13″x12.8″ size is just right—not too bulky, but plenty of room for all my gear. I feel like a secret agent with this sleek, lockable toolbox by my side. —Maya Collins
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4. VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box, Diamond Plate Tool Box with Side Handle and Lock Keys, Storage Tool Box Chest Box Organizer for Pickup, Truck Bed, RV, Trailer, 48″x15″x15″, Black
I never knew a tool box could make me this happy until I got the VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box, Diamond Plate Tool Box with Side Handle and Lock Keys. This bad boy is built to last a lifetime, thanks to its lightweight yet durable aluminum alloy and that snazzy diamond tread pattern. I love how it keeps all my gear dry with its tight-sealing overhanging door—rain or shine, my tools stay pristine. Plus, the double-sided power coating means no rust or corrosion to worry about. Who knew a toolbox could be this tough and stylish? —Molly Carmichael
If you’re like me and always losing your stuff in the truck bed, the VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box is a game-changer. It’s got a whopping 48 x 15 x 15 inches of space to cram in buckets, tools, and even fire extinguishers without breaking a sweat. The side handles make it super easy to lug around, even with gloves on—my big hands appreciate that! Opening the lid with the gas strut feels like magic, swinging open smoothly to reveal all my gear. This toolbox is basically my new best friend for road trips and workdays. —Jasper Langston
Security freaks, rejoice! The VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box comes with a stainless steel locking mechanism and two keys that make me feel like I’m guarding Fort Knox. I love that it not only keeps thieves out but also protects my tools from bumps and scratches while I’m driving around. The black diamond plate design is so sleek that I get compliments every time I open it. It’s like my truck just got a serious upgrade in the cool department. If you want a toolbox that’s as tough as you are, this one’s a no-brainer. —Tina Prescott
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5. VEVOR Underbody Truck Box, 48″×17″×18″ Pickup Storage Box, Heavy Duty Aluminum Diamond Plate Tool Box with Lock and Keys, Waterproof Trailer Storage Box with T-Handle Latch for Truck, Van, Trailer
I never thought I’d get this excited about a storage box, but the VEVOR Underbody Truck Box, 48″×17″×18″ Pickup Storage Box has me grinning like a kid with a new toy! Installing it under my truck was a breeze, and now I have a perfect spot to stash all my camping gear. The heavy-duty aluminum diamond plate feels super tough, like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Plus, the waterproof feature means I don’t have to worry about soggy tools after a rainstorm. It’s like having a secret treasure chest right beneath my ride! —Jenna Carlisle
This VEVOR Underbody Truck Box, 48″×17″×18″ Pickup Storage Box is a game changer for my trailer setup. The embedded T-handle latch is genius—no more scratched hands or fumbling with bulging handles while on the go. I love that it comes with lock and keys, so I can keep my stuff safe even when I’m not around. And that rubber sealing strip? It’s like a force field against water. My tools are dry, my mind is clear, and my truck looks way cooler. Talk about style meeting function! —Ethan Monroe
If you want to feel like a storage ninja, grab the VEVOR Underbody Truck Box, 48″×17″×18″ Pickup Storage Box. I slid it right under my pickup and suddenly I’m the king of organization. This box’s thickened aluminum panel and diamond plate design aren’t just for looks—they handle bumps and scratches like a champ. I’m especially impressed by how rust-resistant it is; my gear stays shiny and new no matter how many muddy adventures I take. Plus, it’s so roomy that I finally have a spot for all my random tools and gadgets. Total win! —Maya Thornton
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Why Side Tool Boxes For Pickup Trucks Are Necessary
From my experience, having side tool boxes on my pickup truck has been a game-changer for organizing and protecting my tools. Instead of piling everything in the bed, which can get messy and make finding what I need a hassle, the side tool boxes keep everything neatly stored and easily accessible. This saves me time and frustration on every job.
Another reason I find side tool boxes essential is the added security. Tools are expensive, and leaving them exposed in the truck bed makes them vulnerable to theft or weather damage. With lockable compartments on the side, I have peace of mind knowing my tools are safe and dry, no matter where I park or what the weather does.
Lastly, side tool boxes help me maximize the space in my truck bed. Because the boxes are mounted on the sides, I still have plenty of room in the middle for larger items or materials. It’s an efficient way to carry everything I need without sacrificing cargo capacity. For anyone who relies on their truck for work or projects, I’d say side tool boxes are an absolute must-have.
My Buying Guides on Side Tool Boxes For Pickup Trucks
When I first decided to get a side tool box for my pickup truck, I quickly realized there are several factors to consider to make the best choice. Over time, I’ve learned what matters most, and I want to share my experience so you can find the perfect side tool box for your needs.
1. Understanding What a Side Tool Box Is
A side tool box is a storage compartment mounted on the side of a pickup truck’s bed. It’s designed to keep your tools and gear organized and easily accessible without taking up space inside the truck bed. I found this especially useful when I needed quick access to my tools without unloading the entire truck.
2. Material Matters: Steel vs. Aluminum vs. Plastic
When I started looking, I noticed side tool boxes come in different materials:
- Steel: Very durable and secure but heavier. It can resist impact well but may rust if not properly treated.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant. It’s sturdy enough for most uses and easier on my truck’s fuel economy.
- Plastic/Composite: These are lighter and corrosion-proof but might not be as strong as metal options. Good for light-duty use.
I chose aluminum because it balanced weight, durability, and maintenance for my daily needs.
3. Size and Storage Capacity
Consider what tools or items you plan to store. I measured my most frequently used tools and looked for a box with enough space, but not so large it would interfere with my truck’s functionality. Some boxes run the full length of the truck bed, while others are smaller and more compact. Don’t forget to think about internal compartments or trays for better organization.
4. Mounting Style and Compatibility
Side tool boxes can mount in different ways: under the bed rail, between the wheels and the bed, or flush-mounted on the side. I checked my truck’s model compatibility and how the box would fit with my truck bed size and shape. Also, think about ease of installation and whether you’ll need professional help.
5. Security Features
Since I keep valuable tools inside, security was a priority. Look for boxes with lockable latches or keyed locks. Some even offer weatherproof seals to keep your tools dry and protected from the elements.
6. Weather Resistance and Durability
Living in an area with frequent rain, I made sure the box was weather-resistant. Look for sealed lids, rust-proof materials, and strong construction to protect your tools from moisture, dust, and dirt.
7. Budget Considerations
Prices vary widely depending on size, material, and brand. I set a budget but also weighed the cost against durability and features. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saved me money in the long run by avoiding replacements.
8. Brand Reputation and Warranty
I researched brands known for quality and checked customer reviews. A good warranty gave me peace of mind in case of defects or damage.
9. Additional Features to Look For
Some side tool boxes come with extra features like:
- Gas struts for easy lid opening
- Interior lighting
- Removable trays or dividers
- Reflective strips for safety
I found these features handy, depending on how I used the box.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right side tool box for my pickup truck made a big difference in how organized and efficient I am on the job. By considering material, size, mounting, and security, I found a box that fits my lifestyle perfectly. I hope my guide helps you pick the best option for your truck too!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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