Need to keep your tools close and secure while you’re out and about?
Getting a side mounted tool box can make your life a heck of a lot easier, and there are many choices around.
What matters most is getting the perfect one for you and your needs!
Let’s take a look at the 4 Best Side Mount Toolboxes for your Truck:
1. UWS TBSM36 Side Mount Truck Box
Dimensions: Length 36 inches, Width 11.25 inches, Height 11 inches
UWS’s side mount truck box is one of the pricier options available. But, in some cases a higher price point is justified.
That rings true for this product overall with some small caveats that we’ll get to below.
This includes support legs and it’s own locking mechanism. A drawback is it lacks mounting hardware. Which is pretty standard for tool boxes in this category.
They’ve made this with contractors in mind, so you’ll have to attach it yourself to your truck bed. There are also complaints of some purchasers receiving a product with dents.
With that out of the way, the heavy users are fond of this device. It has struts to keep it open, and will swing out to 90 degrees. You’ll be able to hang this off the side of your truck for easy access.
If you’re a fan of diamond plated design, then you’ll like the look. Overall, it’s a good value. You will need to drill into your truck bed to secure this.
Total weight is about 20 lbs. They weld this together to give you a solid unit. Proudly made in the USA. The included leg supports will be needed to mount this properly.
2. Better Built 79011019 Side Mount Tool Box
Dimensions: Length 48 inches, Width 11.25 inches, Height 11 inches
Here we feature another diamond plated steel option toolbox.
This Better Built box is a more affordable choice compared to the UWS box.
It uses piston assist to keep it open and doesn’t fully make 90 degrees, but close enough. You can open this with one hand. The lock and key are included, although some have had issues with missing a spare key.
The visible black gasket is a weather seal to keep your valuables free of moisture. The outside of the box is welded together. This is also a little bit heavier than UWS at 25 lbs. The chrome handles are a nice touch.
3. Lund 79748 48-Inch Aluminum Side Mount Box
Dimensions: Length 48 inches, Width 8 inches, Height 12 inches
The black coated design of this Lund box gives it a different look than most products.
It’ll match darker paint colors better. One thing to note is that currently the product description on this product is incorrect.
It says it’s 60 inches, when in fact it’s only 48. The dimensions we’ve listed above are the correct ones. With that out of the way, one of the best things about this is that they offer a lifetime warranty on workmanship.
If you’re a contractor worried about the welds or quality of something you’re purchasing, you’ll know how important this is. Something that is going to stand the test of time bodes well for use, and if you ever want to sell it.
Most side mount toolboxes don’t include mounting hardware, this does include the angle brackets but you’ll need to get your own bolts.
4. Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box
Dimensions: Length 48 inches, Width 12.75 inches, Height 11 inches
Dee Zee has thrown their hat in the ring with this diamond plated tool box.
Like its competitors, this uses a piston assist to help you when you’re rifling through your tools.
The average weight in this category for this size is usually about 20-25 lbs. This box is heavier than nearly all of its competition in this price range at 30 lbs. When something is made of mostly metal, it being a bit heavier is a good sign.
Dee Zee products are made in the USA.
Where else can I mount a toolbox for my truck?
Outside of the truck bed, there is another option. That is mounting it on the underside. There are several tool boxes made to hang underneath your truck.
Also, if you’re pulling a trailer there are tongue mounted tool box options that might suit your needs.
Will these tool boxes hold up to rust?
They’re all made with the elements in mind because they use aluminum. If they were prone to rust, their reviews would tank quicker than my favorite basketball team.
Rust occurs in steel and iron. At worst, aluminum can stain.
We hope this guide helps you make an informed decision on a side-mounted option for your truck. Remember, there are other ways to store your tools and a very popular one is an underbody lock box if you’d rather free up your usable space.
When it comes to price and overall value, it’s pretty hard to beat Dee Zee’s toolbox. But, the choice is yours.
Whatever you pick, be sure to let us know how it worked out for you and for everyone else in the same situation. Good luck on your search!