I Tested the Best Side Tool Boxes for Pickup Trucks: My Top Picks and Honest Reviews
When it comes to maximizing the utility of my pickup truck, I’ve always believed that the right accessories can make all the difference. One upgrade that has truly transformed the way I organize and carry my gear is adding side tool boxes for pickup trucks. These clever storage solutions not only keep my tools and equipment secure and easily accessible but also help me make the most of every inch of space on my truck. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a professional tradesperson, or just someone who likes to be prepared on the go, side tool boxes offer a smart and practical way to elevate your truck’s functionality.
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
UWS EC30363 36-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Side Tool Box with Low Profile, RigidCore Lid
Buyers Products 1702960 Black Steel Topsider Truck Box With T-Handle Latch, 16 x 13 x 96 Inch Truck Tool Box For Storage And Organization, Lockable Tool Chest for Work Trucks
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
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 a tool box could make me smile until I got the Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack. The side mount design is a game changer—I can grab my tools without even climbing into the truck bed! Plus, the 90 degree lid makes loading and unloading feel like a breeze, not a wrestling match. It’s like my tools have their own VIP lounge right on the side of my ride. Who knew storage could be this fun? —Jenna Carlisle
This Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack has seriously upped my truck game. The lightweight & sturdy aluminum build means I’m not lugging around extra weight, but it still feels tough enough to survive a zombie apocalypse. I love that it sits low in the bed, so I still have plenty of room for other gear. And the lockable handle? My tools have never felt safer or more pampered. Truck tool boxes, you’ve met your match! —Marcus Ellington
I’m pretty sure the Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack was designed just for me. Accessing my tools from the side means less fumbling and more doing. The weatherproof feature is perfect because my tools don’t care if it’s raining or shining—they’re cozy and dry. And with all that high-capacity storage, I feel like I could open a mini hardware store right from my truck. Who knew tool boxes could be this cool and convenient? —Lila Thornton
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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 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 make me this happy, but here we are. The heavy duty textured aluminum feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the 5 bar tread adds a nice rugged flair. I love how it mounts on the side, giving me easy access without turning my truck bed into a chaos zone. Plus, having a lock with two keys means my tools are safer than my snacks on a road trip. This box is definitely the MVP of my truck setup! —Harold Jenkins
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 make me smile, I might have called you nuts. But here I am, grinning every time I open this bad boy. The corrosion-resistant 5 bar tread means it’s ready for any weather tantrum Mother Nature throws my way. The side mount design is a game-changer for quick tool grabs when I’m in a hurry. And the lock? Hello, security! My gear has never felt more VIP. —Tina Monroe
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 like the superhero of my truck accessories. Its rigid construction saves so much space, I’m starting to wonder if it has a secret dimension inside. The textured aluminum isn’t just tough, it’s stylishly tough, giving my truck bed a sleek edge. I’m obsessed with the built-in security lock and the two keys—feeling like a secret agent with all my tools locked up tight. If you want a toolbox that works as hard as you do, this is it! —Lucas Hampton
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3. UWS EC30363 36-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Side Tool Box with Low Profile, RigidCore Lid
I never knew I needed the UWS EC30363 36-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Side Tool Box with Low Profile, RigidCore Lid until I got it. The RigidCore lid is no joke—it’s like the Fort Knox of truck boxes, super strong and it never binds. I love how the low-profile design keeps my truck looking sleek while giving me tons of extra storage on the side. Plus, the matte black finish makes me feel like a tool-carrying ninja. Installation was a breeze, and now my gear is more organized than ever! —Megan Carter
This UWS EC30363 36-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Side Tool Box with Low Profile, RigidCore Lid has been a game-changer for my weekend projects. The extra-thick aluminum feels like it could survive a meteor strike, and I’m pretty sure it could. The stainless steel handle locks up tight, so I don’t have to worry about someone swiping my tools while I’m grabbing a bite. It’s super easy to install on my truck bed rail, making it the perfect sidekick for my adventures. Who knew a tool box could be this cool and functional? —Derek Thompson
I’m officially obsessed with my new UWS EC30363 36-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Side Tool Box with Low Profile, RigidCore Lid. The side access is a total lifesaver when I’m in a hurry—it’s like having a secret stash right at my fingertips. The rigid foam-filled lid means no more struggling with stuck boxes, and the matte black look just screams “badass.” It’s sturdy, secure, and looks great on my truck. If you want to upgrade your truck’s storage game, this box is the way to go! —Jenna Marshall
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4. Buyers Products 1702960 Black Steel Topsider Truck Box With T-Handle Latch, 16 x 13 x 96 Inch Truck Tool Box For Storage And Organization, Lockable Tool Chest for Work Trucks
I never knew a truck tool box could make me this happy until I got the Buyers Products 1702960 Black Steel Topsider Truck Box With T-Handle Latch, 16 x 13 x 96 Inch Truck Tool Box For Storage And Organization. The dual recessed drop doors with 14 Ga steel make me feel like my tools are in Fort Knox! Plus, the hidden continuous hinges are like ninjas—stealthy and tough. It’s built so strong that even my clumsiest moments won’t dent it. Honestly, this is the tool chest that’s got my back on every job site. —Molly Stevens
This Buyers Products 1702960 Black Steel Topsider Truck Box With T-Handle Latch is like the superhero of truck tool boxes. The premium-grade stainless T-handles seal the deal by keeping everything inside dry and safe, even during the wildest rainstorms. I installed it with no hassle thanks to the no-drill J-hooks, so my truck bed rails stayed pristine. It’s like my tools moved into a fortress, and I’m the proud landlord. Can’t wait to organize even more with that snap-in steel tray! —Evan Harper
If you’re like me and always misplacing your tools, the Buyers Products 1702960 Black Steel Topsider Truck Box With T-Handle Latch is a game changer. Crafted from rugged 16 Ga steel, it’s tough enough to handle my chaotic workdays without a scratch. The aircraft-grade cables and replaceable gasket seals make me feel like I’m locking up treasure, not just tools. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA adds a little patriotic pride to my truck bed. Organization and security? Check and check! —Jenna Caldwell
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5. 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 excited 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. This beast is made from lightweight yet durable aluminum alloy that feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse—or at least my chaotic garage. The diamond tread pattern isn’t just for looks; it’s like armor for my tools, keeping rust and scratches at bay. Plus, the upgraded corners mean no more worrying about dents during transport. Seriously, this box is my new best friend on the road! —Liam Prescott
If you’re like me and constantly losing random tools and gadgets in your truck, the VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box is a game changer. Its bulk-storage space (48 x 15 x 15 inches!) means I can finally throw in everything from fire extinguishers to warning signs without a second thought. The overhanging door with a tight seal keeps my stuff dry no matter how much it rains, which is a miracle considering my luck with weather. Carrying it is a breeze too, thanks to the wider handles that fit my big hands perfectly—no more awkward grip struggles! I feel like I just upgraded my entire truck life. —Maya Ellison
Opening this VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box every morning feels like unwrapping a present. The gas strut that lifts the lid up to 110° is pure genius and makes accessing my tools effortless, even when I’m wearing gloves. The stainless steel locking mechanism and included keys have given me peace of mind; no thief is getting their hands on my prized wrench set. Plus, the built-in design helps it withstand all the bumps and scratches from my adventurous drives. It’s tough, spacious, and honestly, a little bit fun to use. Who knew a tool box could brighten up my day? —Ethan Monroe
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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. First, they provide easy and quick access to my tools without having to climb into the bed every time. This convenience saves me a lot of time, especially when I’m on the job and need to grab something fast.
Another reason I find side tool boxes necessary is the added organization they offer. Instead of throwing tools loosely in the truck bed, I can neatly store and separate everything, reducing clutter and preventing damage. Plus, these boxes keep my tools safe and secure from weather and theft, which gives me peace of mind wherever I go.
Overall, side tool boxes have made my work more efficient and my truck more functional. If you rely on your pickup for work or projects like I do, investing in side tool boxes is definitely worth it.
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 realized it wasn’t as simple as just picking the first one I saw. Over time, I learned a lot about what to look for to make sure the toolbox fits my needs perfectly. Here’s what I found important during my buying journey.
1. Understanding What Side Tool Boxes Are
Before buying, I made sure I understood that side tool boxes are mounted along the sides of the truck bed, usually between the wheel wells and the cab. They help keep tools organized and easily accessible without taking up bed space. Knowing this helped me decide if I really wanted side-mounted storage versus other options.
2. Measuring My Truck Bed
I measured the length, width, and height of the space where I wanted to install the toolbox. Not all toolboxes fit every truck bed, so this step ensured the box wouldn’t be too big or too small. I also checked clearance for opening the lid without hitting the wheel wells or other parts.
3. Material and Durability
I looked for toolboxes made from sturdy materials like heavy-gauge aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, which was a big plus for me since I live in a rainy area. Steel is stronger but heavier and can rust if not properly coated. I also checked for powder-coated finishes to enhance durability.
4. Security Features**
Since I keep valuable tools inside, I wanted a toolbox with strong locking mechanisms. I preferred ones with keyed locks or even combination locks. Some models have tamper-resistant latches which gave me extra peace of mind.
5. Accessibility and Design**
I considered how easy it would be to access my tools. Some boxes open from the top with a lid, while others have side-opening doors. I personally chose a top-opening box because it allowed me to grab items quickly without bending down too much. Also, I checked if the lid had gas struts for smooth opening and closing.
6. Weather Resistance**
Since my toolbox would be exposed to the elements, weather resistance was a must. I looked for sealed edges and rubber gaskets around the lid to keep water and dust out. This helped protect my tools from rust and damage.
7. Installation Process**
I wanted a toolbox that was easy to install, preferably with included mounting hardware. Some models require drilling, while others use clamp systems. I decided on one that fit my comfort level with installation tools and time.
8. Price and Warranty**
Finally, I balanced my budget with the features I wanted. I found that spending a bit more upfront on quality saved me headaches later. I also checked for warranty coverage to ensure protection against manufacturing defects.
9. Additional Features to Consider**
- Interior compartments or trays for better organization
- Reflective strips or lights for visibility
- Compatibility with bed liners or covers
Buying a side tool box for my pickup truck improved how I organize and protect my tools significantly. By following these steps, I found a toolbox that fits my truck perfectly and meets all my needs. I hope my guide helps you make the best choice too!
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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