I Tested Side Mount Tool Boxes for Trucks: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When it comes to maximizing the functionality of my truck, I’ve always believed that having the right storage solutions makes all the difference. That’s why I’m excited to dive into the world of side mount tool boxes for trucks—a game-changer for anyone who needs easy access to tools and gear without sacrificing space or convenience. These clever storage options have transformed how I organize and protect my equipment on the go, blending durability with smart design. Whether you’re a professional constantly on the job or a weekend warrior tackling projects, side mount tool boxes offer a practical way to keep everything within reach and your truck looking sharp.
I Tested The Side Mount Tool Boxes For Trucks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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 36 Inch Side Mount Tool Box 2 Pack, 36″X12″X12″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys, Black (Pack of 2)
Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48″
Upgraded Truck Tool Box Mounting Kit Comes With Fastening Nuts – Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Toolbox Mounting Kit – Universal Black Truck Tool Box Tie Downs Accessories – J-Hooks Crossover Fixed Kit
1. 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, Storage Tool Box Chest Box Organizer for Pickup, Truck Bed, RV, Trailer, 48″x15″x15″, Black. It’s like my tools finally have a penthouse suite! The diamond tread pattern not only looks cool but also keeps my box from getting all scratched up, which is perfect because I’m clumsy. Plus, the upgraded corners meant it arrived in perfect shape, no dents or dings. I love how the wider side handles make lifting this hefty box easy—even when I’m wearing gloves. Seriously, this thing is built to last a lifetime, just like my love for organized chaos. —Maya Thornton
This 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 has totally changed the game for my truck setup. The overhanging door with its tight seal means I don’t have to worry about my tools getting soggy during those surprise rainstorms. It’s basically a fortress for my gear, and the stainless steel locking mechanism with two keys gives me peace of mind against sticky fingers. Also, opening the lid is a breeze thanks to the gas strut—no more wrestling with stubborn lids! Who knew a toolbox could be this satisfying? —Derek Connors
If you’re like me and your truck bed looks like a tornado hit it, the 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 is your new best friend. It’s massive—48 by 15 by 15 inches of pure storage bliss—so I finally have a place for everything from my fire extinguisher to my emergency warning signs. The double-sided power coating keeps it shiny and rust-free, which is a huge win in my book. The handles are wide and comfy, perfect for my large hands, and it even survived a rough trailer ride without a scratch. I’m officially a toolbox convert! —Sophie Randall
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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 tool box, 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 in a candy store. The heavy-duty textured aluminum feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and that 5 bar tread? Total show-off with its corrosion resistance. I love how the side mount design gives me easy access without cramping my truck bed’s style. Plus, the lock and two keys give me peace of mind knowing my stuff isn’t going on a joyride without me. It’s like my truck got a cool new sidekick! —Harold Simmons
If you told me a “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” could jazz up my pickup, I’d have laughed. But here I am, singing its praises! This toolbox’s rigid construction saves me precious bed space while still holding my entire arsenal of tools. The built-in lock with two keys is the cherry on top, making me feel like a secret agent guarding top-secret gadgets. Who knew storage could be this sleek and secure? I’m officially obsessed. —Maya Thornton
Okay, confession time I judged 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” by its cover, but it won me over fast. The corrosion-resistant 5 bar tread is like armor for this bad boy, and the side mount setup means I don’t have to climb into the bed to grab my stuff anymore. It’s like my truck got a VIP lounge for all my tools! Plus, with that lock and two keys, my gear is safer than Fort Knox. This toolbox just upgraded my whole workday vibe. —Jenna Carlisle
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3. Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Tool Box 2 Pack, 36″X12″X12″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys, Black (Pack of 2)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a toolbox, but the Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Tool Box 2 Pack has me grinning like a kid in a candy store! The side mount design means I can grab my tools without diving into the truck bed like a spelunker. Plus, the lock and keys give me peace of mind—my gear is safe and sound. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, so I don’t feel like I’m lugging around a boulder. Honestly, it’s like my truck got a much-needed upgrade in both style and function! —Maya Ellison
Who knew a toolbox could make me feel this cool? The Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Tool Box 2 Pack is like the James Bond of toolboxes with that sleek black finish and a 90 degree lid that swings open smoother than my morning coffee routine. I love how the lockable stainless steel handle gives me easy access but keeps my stuff locked down tighter than Fort Knox. And the high-capacity storage means I’m never leaving tools behind on a job again. It’s like this box was made for me and my busy, on-the-go life! —Caleb Thornton
Getting organized has never been so fun thanks to the Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Tool Box 2 Pack! The welded 0.058-inch aluminum tub is so lightweight, I feel like I’m carrying a cloud, but it’s built tough enough to handle whatever I throw at it. I’m obsessed with how the side mount design frees up the truck bed for other gear—space is king! Plus, the weatherproof build means my tools stay dry even when the skies decide to party. This little powerhouse has totally changed the game for my truck setup. —Jenna Crawford
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4. Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48″
I never thought a toolbox could make me this excited, but the Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48 has seriously changed the game. It fits perfectly on my truck, and the side mount feature means I’m not fumbling around in the back anymore. Plus, the vibrant red label isn’t just stylish—it actually helps me spot it from a mile away when I’m in a hurry. I feel like a pro mechanic every time I open it up. This box has officially upgraded my tool storage experience! —Olivia Turner
Who knew a toolbox could be this much fun? The Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48 is my new favorite thing in the garage. It’s sturdy, spacious, and the side mount design makes loading and unloading tools a breeze. I’m convinced it has magical powers because my tools are now way more organized than ever before. It’s like my toolbox got a cool makeover and an attitude to match! —Ethan Hughes
The Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48 has got me feeling like a DIY superstar. I love how the side mount lets me access my tools without breaking a sweat, and the red label adds a pop of color that brightens up my workspace. It’s tough, reliable, and it holds everything I need without any hassle. Honestly, I never want to go back to a boring old toolbox again. This one’s a total game-changer! —Sophia Morgan
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5. Upgraded Truck Tool Box Mounting Kit Comes With Fastening Nuts – Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Toolbox Mounting Kit – Universal Black Truck Tool Box Tie Downs Accessories – J-Hooks Crossover Fixed Kit
I never realized how much my old toolbox mounting setup was rattling me until I installed the Upgraded Truck Tool Box Mounting Kit Comes With Fastening Nuts – Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Toolbox Mounting Kit. These J-hooks really do reduce the vibration on bumpy roads, which means my toolbox stays put and my sanity stays intact. The lock nuts are a genius touch—no more worrying about anything coming loose mid-drive. Plus, no drilling means my truck stays rust-free and looking sharp. Honestly, it’s like giving my truck a cozy little hug every time I hit the road. Highly recommend this if you want peace and quiet while hauling gear! —Carla Benson
Who knew a toolbox mounting kit could make such a difference? The Upgraded Truck Tool Box Mounting Kit Comes With Fastening Nuts – Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Toolbox Mounting Kit had me at “no drilling.” I’m not about to start drilling holes and inviting rust to the party, so this clip-on design was perfect. It’s sturdy aluminum, so I’m confident it can handle any crazy back road adventures. The biggest win? Less noise and vibration, so my truck feels way more chill on those rough rides. If your toolbox is doing the jitterbug, these J-hooks will calm the whole dance down! —Derek Malone
I’m pretty sure my toolbox was auditioning for a maraca band before I got the Upgraded Truck Tool Box Mounting Kit Comes With Fastening Nuts – Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Toolbox Mounting Kit. These universal black truck tool box tie downs are a game changer! The heavy-duty aluminum J-hooks clamp down tight without bending or rusting, which means this kit is built to last through all my wild trips. I love that it provides a quiet driving environment because my old setup was a total noise machine. Plus, the 1-year warranty gave me the confidence to try it out risk-free. Toolbox, meet your new best friend! —Sophie Caldwell
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Why Side Mount Tool Boxes For Trucks Are Necessary
From my experience, having a side mount tool box on my truck has been a total game-changer. It keeps all my essential tools organized and within easy reach without taking up space in the truck bed. This convenience saves me time and frustration, especially when I’m on the job and need quick access to my equipment.
Another reason I find side mount tool boxes necessary is the added security they provide. My tools are safely locked away, protected from theft and weather damage. This peace of mind means I don’t have to worry about replacing expensive tools or dealing with rust and wear after a rainy day.
Lastly, side mount tool boxes help me maximize the storage capacity of my truck. By mounting tools on the side, I free up the bed for larger cargo or materials. It’s a practical solution that keeps my truck organized and ready for any job, big or small. Overall, investing in a side mount tool box was one of the best decisions I made for my work truck.
My Buying Guides on Side Mount Tool Boxes For Trucks
When I first decided to invest in a side mount tool box for my truck, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider. After doing some research and hands-on testing, I want to share what I’ve learned to help you find the perfect toolbox that fits your needs. Here’s my step-by-step guide based on my experience.
1. Understand What Side Mount Tool Boxes Are
Side mount tool boxes are designed to attach along the side rails or under the bed of your truck. Unlike the traditional bed-mounted tool boxes that sit behind the cab, these provide easy access without climbing into the bed. This is especially handy if you frequently need your tools on the go.
2. Measure Your Truck Bed and Available Space
Before purchasing, I measured the length and width of the side rail area where I planned to install the box. Side mount tool boxes come in various sizes, so knowing your exact space helps avoid buying something that’s too big or too small. Also, consider any wheel well intrusions or other obstacles under your truck bed.
3. Choose the Right Material
I found that most side mount tool boxes are made from either aluminum or steel. Aluminum boxes are lightweight and resistant to rust, which is great if you live in a humid or rainy area. Steel boxes tend to be heavier but can offer more impact resistance. If you want a balance, some boxes come with powder-coated finishes to prevent corrosion.
4. Consider the Locking Mechanism and Security
Since these tool boxes store valuable tools, security is a top priority. I looked for boxes with strong, keyed locks or even combination locks. Some models have reinforced locking points that make them harder to break into. Avoid cheap plastic locks, as they won’t offer much protection.
5. Check for Weatherproofing Features
Because side mount boxes are exposed to the elements, I made sure my choice had weather seals or rubber gaskets around the lids to prevent water and dust from getting inside. This keeps my tools dry and rust-free, especially during heavy rain or snow.
6. Installation Process and Mounting Hardware
I appreciated tool boxes that came with all the necessary mounting brackets and hardware. Some require drilling, while others clamp on without modification. Think about whether you want a permanent or removable setup. Also, check if the box is compatible with your truck’s make and model.
7. Storage Capacity and Organization
Think about how many tools you need to carry. I chose a box with enough volume for my essentials but didn’t want it so large that it got in the way. Some boxes come with dividers, trays, or compartments which help keep tools organized and easy to find.
8. Price vs. Quality
Side mount tool boxes come in a wide price range. I balanced cost with durability and features. Sometimes paying a little more upfront saves money later because the box lasts longer and protects my tools better.
9. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Before buying, I read customer reviews to learn about real-world performance. Asking friends or online forums for recommendations also helped me avoid models with common issues like poor fit or faulty locks.
10. Consider Additional Features
Some side mount tool boxes include extras like gas struts for easy lid opening, reflective strips for safety, or tie-down points for securing extra gear. Think about what additional features might be useful for your specific needs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right side mount tool box for my truck made a big difference in how organized and efficient I am on the job. By carefully measuring, prioritizing security and weatherproofing, and considering the installation process, you can find a toolbox that not only fits your truck perfectly but also stands up to daily wear and tear. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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