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If you want to be able to store your items in the bed of your truck and still use a tonneau cover, it is important that you get the right storage unit.
There are many different options for storage units out there, so how do you know which one will work best? In this article, we will go over some of the top options that can be used with a tonneau cover.
| Our Favorite | Product | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | DECKED Drawer System | 5 / 5 |
| Best Wheel Well Unit | UnderCover SwingCase | 4.5 / 5 |
| Best Universal | Du-Ha Tote | 4.5 / 5 |
| Best Classic Style | TruXedo TonneauMate | 4 / 5 |
| Best Metal Unit | Red Label Utility Chest | 4 / 5 |
1. DECKED Drawer System
DECKED Storage System is a smarter, better way to store stuff for your pickup truck or van. DECKED drawers are built tough with automotive-grade materials and fit seamlessly into any full-size, midsize or even RamBox equipped trucks.
With 2000 pound load capacity, and up to 200 pounds per drawer, you don’t have to worry about storage space constraints anymore!
DECKED’s system provides easy installation while lasting much longer than competing products due to our use of polyethylene and steel.
With an endless possible configuration of add-ons—from front loader beds to trunks—we’ve got the right tool for the job at hand.
I think my favorite part about DECKED storage, is the fact that you can still put items on top of the storage, meaning you can still put dirt bikes, and ATVs on top. Whereas most tool box style storage compartments tend to take up a portion of the length of the bed. This instead just takes up a bit of the depth.
Of course, as this is in this article, it will actually fit under your tonneau cover no problem.
Pros
- Fits a lot of gear
- You can still utilize the complete length of your bed
- Weather resistant
- High quality
Cons
- Expensive
- Large
2. UnderCover SwingCase
The UnderCover SwingCase is a great truck bed storage solution for people that don’t want to take up too much space within their bed.
It has everything you need to get the most out of your pickup’s cargo space, including high-quality construction and dependable features that will last through any adventure with ease (and even make it more comfortable).
Free from hanging prongs and hooks, the reliable Twist-Lock provides quick access to your gear without any tools. Standing sturdy on its own, SwingCase works with any tonneau cover, not just the UnderCover branded version – so get one for each side of your rig!
I really like that this SwingCase doesn’t take up a ton of extra room, as it fits in that unused space around your wheel well. It also easily swings out for easier access than most any other tool box out there today.
Pros
- Swings out for easy access
- Good build quality
- Fits into an area not normally occupied by other items
- 2 can be equipped on any truck
- Very convenient
Cons
- Smaller capacity than other options
- Expensive for the capacity
3. Du-Ha Tote
If you are on the hunt for something a bit more portable for your storage that can easily switch between your truck with a tonneau over to your SUV, then the Du-Ha Tote is probably right up your alley!
The DU-HA TOTE is a 2-wheeled tote that fits most SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans. This all in one tool box has sealed lid keeps out dust and moisture and can even hold up to four shotguns or rifles with or without scopes (for those hunters) for 5.1 cubic feet of storage space.
The DU-HA TOTE comes equipped with features such as dual hauling handles on ends for easy carry, single carrying handle in center top for saving your back from strain, 3 heavy duty latches with standard padlocks which close using a combination lock making it safe at rest and transporting firearms throughout the country.
Proudly constructed of roto molded heavy duty polyethylene this product stands 72” long x 20″ Wide.
Pros
- Very portable
- Great capacity
- Universal fit
- Modular interior
- Can handle firearms
Cons
- Can be larger than some may want
4. TruXedo TonneauMate
If you are looking for one of your classic style tool boxes that sits on the rails of your bed in the front, but still want to have a tonneau cover, this is probably going to be your best bet!
It’s easy to buy the right unit for your truck, by putting in the year make, and model to get the right unit. This TonneauMate is a versatile designed mounting box that has capacity to support heavy loads.
Constructed from high quality material featuring a unique adjustable mounting design, it facilitates flexible positioning, which means you can easily put the box in the front, middle, or even back of your bed (however you likely will put it in the front).
The TruXedo TonneauMate mounts under your truck bed cover for added security and allows you to use the entire bed floor while mounted to side of truck with three point ratchet system
You can easily lock it, by using a key lock! It’s basic, but simple.
Pros
- Classic style design
- Great capacity
- Decent price
- Good quality
Cons
- Takes up some of the length of your bed
- Tonneau covers: Can you take them through a car wash?
- Are Truck Toolboxes Waterproof?
- What does 2000 pound vehicle load rating mean?
5. Dee Zee Red Label Utility Chest
If you have ever looked into a work truck’s bed, you probably have seen a tool box almost exactly like this! It fits in between the wheel wells and the front of the truck, and stays just low enough that you can roll a tonneau cover up over top of it.
A rugged, dependable box that’s made to last. The Dee Zee is strong, sturdy and won’t rust. It has features like easy-to-reach side handles, and a closed cell foam gasket for keeping weather out of your belongings.
This heavy duty chest comes in two different styles, the slanted front which is meant specifically to fit well with your wheel wells, or the straight front, which is something more meant to be placed wherever you would like in the bed of your truck.
I like that these units have a deep capacity for large items, and it fit snug right between the front of your bed, and the wheel wells. This is all backed up by a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Classic styling
- Great value
Cons
- Takes up a good portion of the length of your bed
- Not very portable
6. BAKBox 2 Tonneau Toolbox
The BAKBox2 is convenient storage solution designed to work with the entire Revolver and BAKFlip series, which makes this a unique option on this list, as it does require you to buy or already own products from this company, however if you do, they are great products to have.
As one of the most versatile toolbox on the market, the BakBox2 can be positioned anywhere on the rails of the tonneau and organizes you while making bed access a breeze. Made from 1/2″ thick composite FRP core panels that offer virtually indestructibility, you’ll need more than just brute force to squash this product!
Working in tandem with Revolvers and BakFlips, its solid design makes it a great option for those looking for easy storage that is high quality, yet also lightweight. On top of this, you can easily slide it towards the back or the front of the truck by following the rails of the already existing Revolver or BAKFlip series tonneau covers from this company.
Pros
- High quality
- Easy to install
- Easily accessible
Cons
- Not universal
- Doesn’t lock on its own
7. TruXedo Truck Luggage Saddlebag Cargo Bag
If you are looking for something small, and soft sided, this saddle bag by Truxedo is an awesome option. It fits around the wheel well like the other options like this on the list, however this time it is soft sided, and fits on the rail of your cover.
TruXedo SaddleBag is perfect for any open-rail vehicle owners. The SaddleBag mounts on the rails of your tonneau cover and includes two cargo levels, a zippered lower level, and outer pockets.
It comes with heavy-duty inserts to hold up to that long haul drive over rough roads – while still providing the tailored look you want from your belongings.
Want even just a little bit more storage? It even has small pockets on the exterior of the bag, to make quick and easy access to small items that would normally get lost in the bottom of the bag.
Pros
- No drilling into truck for install
- Easy install
- Convenient storage
- Extra pockets
- Low cost
Cons
- Small capacity
What to look for when shopping for a tool box?
Capacity
Obviously this is the first thing you should be paying attention to when shopping for your tool box. You need to make sure it will hold the tools you need it to.
If you plan on adding the truck bed tool box after, this is a good indicator of how much space your tools will take up in both items!
Security
Tools are incredibly expensive, which means you should also be concerned with the security of your toolbox, as you will be leaving the tools in the box for the most part.
You need to make sure that all of your items are safe and secure, so look for locks on both sides where you can lock it tight! This will include things like locking mechanisms, and pry protection.
Strength and Durability
Tool boxes get beat up, a lot! Especially if you get one like DECKED where it covers the floor of your bed. You need to make sure it will hold up to that beating and get a strong and durable box.
Look for hinges that are heavy duty enough to hold your tools, or locks with high quality seals.
Styling
What is a truck without it also looking good? Tool boxes are a big part of your truck’s styling once you have one so choose wisely! Make sure the box has a nice finish, and not just one that you know you won’t like.
Material
The material of your toolbox matters, and no single type of material is the best for every situation. Because of this , it’s important to find a box that suits your needs. Some materials are better for high-low temperature ranges or moisture, so make sure you know what is best for you.
Metal boxes can be very durable and hold up well in tough situations but they tend to scratch or even rust easier than other types of material which may not look as good over time.
Value
Keeping to your budget is important and that doesn’t stop with this tool box. However you also want to make sure that you are getting the value you need. Don’t buy a toolbox just because it is cheap, but isn’t able to hold that large component that you needed to put in there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a tonneau cover with Rambox?
You cannot use a standard tonneau cover with the Rambox, however thankfully there are plenty of alternatives built specifically for this bed! What is Rambox? It is a special bed made by Ram that integrates that tool box you are looking for into the sides of the bed. It helps with storage, but hurts the bed capacity.
Can you use a truck tent with a tonneau cover?
Truck tents generally are not built with a tonneau cover in mind, however you probably can make it work if you have a roll up version. However tool boxes on the other hand are a different story! You probably should take that out before going camping.
Do truck tool boxes fit all trucks?
In general, there are two different sizes of tool boxes! There is the larger size for trucks like the F-150, Ram 1500 and the Silverado. Then there are the smaller sizes for trucks like the Tacoma, Ranger, and Colorado. Most of the time, as long as you are paying attention to which of those two sizes you are looking for, you should be fine. There really aren’t a range of sizes outside of that.
Can you shorten a tonneau cover?
Trying to fit a stand tonneau cover onto your truck, but also have a toolbox that isn’t built to sit below it? Unfortunately you are out of luck, and will either need to get a new tonneau cover, or a new tool box built specifically for that capability.
Conclusion
I hope that this article helped you learn more about the different sizes of tool boxes and their compatibility with truck tonneau covers. I tried to give you information that I was unable to find on any other site, which is tool boxes that actually do work with tonneau covers!
These all should help you be able to buy or keep a standard tonneau, while not losing out on the functionality of a good toolbox!
