When choosing side boxes for a pickup or work truck, durability, weather protection, and accessible design top the list. This guide highlights five top-rated models that balance rugged construction with practical storage features. Use the quick picks below to compare sizes, materials, and access styles for your needs.
| Product | Size / Type | Material | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buyers Products 1721551 Topsider | 72 x 13 x 16 in | Aluminum | Drop doors, lockable, USA-made |
| caqeg 60 Inch Contractor Top Side Box | 60 x 21 x 13.5 in | Aluminum | One large swing-up door, weather-sealed |
| Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount (2-Pack) | 60 x 13 x 14 in each | Aluminum | Side-mount, weatherproof, high capacity |
| UWS EC30363 36-Inch | 36 in | Aluminum | Low-profile, RigidCore lid, side access |
| Buyers Products 1701770 Topsider | 18 x 16 x 96 in | Aluminum | Dual flip-up doors, rain gutter, compression latch |
The following sections dive into each model, highlighting construction, access, and weather protection to help you identify the best fit for your truck and job-site needs.
Buyers Products 1721551 Topsider Truck Box
Constructed from heavy-duty 0.100 in. thick diamond tread aluminum, this Topsider model is built for daily use in demanding work environments. It features dual recessed drop doors with a continuous hidden hinge and aircraft-grade support cables for smooth operation. Die-cast locking T-handles create a tight seal to deter theft, dust, and weather infiltration, helping tools stay dry and secure.
Key considerations: The 72 x 13 x 16 in footprint offers substantial capacity without overly extending beyond the bed. The aluminum construction keeps weight manageable while providing robust durability. If you need a lockable, weather-resistant tool chest with a classic Topsider design, this is a solid option for professional use.
Ideal for: Contractors and fleet maintenance crews who require dependable weather protection and secure access for daily tool storage.
caqeg 60 Inch Contractor Top Side Box
Designed with a single large swing-up door, this Topsider-style box maximizes storage space for taller trucks. The design emphasizes high mounting for maximum accessible volume and is available in lengths from 60 to 82 inches. Built with 0.063 inch thick aluminum and a 5-bar tread, it includes weather sealing to keep tools dry in all conditions and stainless steel fittings for durability.
Key considerations: A single large door can simplify loading bulky items, while the weather seal helps resist rain and dust. This option suits crews needing a broad storage area without separate compartments, and the high-mount design helps keep tools within easy reach from the side of the truck.
Ideal for: Road crews and electricians who carry tall tool bins or long-handled tools that benefit from one expansive opening.
Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Box (2-Pack)
These side-mount aluminum tool boxes offer direct access from the truck’s side, freeing bed space for other gear. The one-piece welded tub is weatherproof and designed for long-lasting durability. The overall dimensions—60″ L x 13″ W x 14″ H—provide ample storage capacity, with a design that keeps tools within reach without loading the bed.
Key considerations: Side-mount design minimizes bed clutter and provides quick tool retrieval. The weatherproof construction and welded aluminum tub enhance longevity in harsh climates. The pack of two ensures consistent storage across dual sides or separate vehicle configurations.
Ideal for: Tradespeople who prioritize side access and want to maximize bed space while maintaining robust weather protection.
UWS EC30363 36-Inch Aluminum Side Tool Box
This side-mount box emphasizes a low-profile lid with RigidCore technology for maximum lid strength and minimal binding. The lid is filled with solid foam to reduce binding and improve durability. A thicker 0.058-inch aluminum tub provides added strength, and the unit mounts securely to the top rail for reliable, high-usage storage access.
Key considerations: The low-profile design offers a streamlined look that pairs well with modern truck beds. RigidCore and solid foam reduce lid wear, while a thicker aluminum wall improves resilience against impacts and weather exposure. This model suits users who want a durable, easy-to-open side box with a compact footprint.
Ideal for: Fleet managers and individual workers who need reliable single-side access without a bulky lid or excessive length.
Buyers Products 1701770 Topsider Truck Tool Box
Crafted from corrosion-resistant 0.100 inch thick aluminum, this Topsider tool box balances toughness with a manageable weight. Integrated rain gutter and automotive-grade bulb seal help keep tools dry and dirt-free, even in harsh weather. Dual gas shocks ensure both doors open smoothly and stay open for safe, convenient access to tools on any job site.
Key considerations: The no-drill mounting approach simplifies installation, and the compression latch provides secure closure. The combination of corrosion resistance, weather sealing, and smooth-operating doors makes this model a reliable choice for frequent use and varied weather conditions.
Ideal for: Contractors and tradespeople who need a robust, weatherproof storage solution with secure, easy access for frequent tool retrieval.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations And Comparisons
When selecting a side box for a truck, consider these factors to ensure you pick the right model for your work and vehicle:
- Access style: Side-mount vs. top-mide swing doors. Side-mounts save bed space and enable quick tool access, while swing-up doors maximize opening height for tall tools.
- Material and durability: Aluminum is common for its lightweight strength and corrosion resistance. Look for 0.058–0.100 inch wall thickness and reinforced lids if you carry heavy or sharp items.
- Weather sealing: A tight gasket, rain gutter, and foam-filled lids reduce moisture intrusion and protect contents in rain, snow, and dust.
- Locking and security: Die-cast compression latches or T-handles add security on job sites and during transport. Consider dual-door designs for easier access to larger tool assortments.
- Mounting and compatibility: Verify bed rail compatibility, mounting hardware, and whether the box requires drilling or fits directly to existing rails. No-drill options save installation time.
- Size and capacity: Larger sizes provide more storage but may protrude beyond the bed or affect the vehicle’s balance. Measure bed width, height, and tails as needed.
- Weather resistance versus weight: Heavier, thicker walls offer more durability, but weigh more. Balance this against payload and fuel efficiency requirements.
- Brand reliability and warranty: Reputable brands with US-made offerings often ensure consistent quality and after-sales support.
In sum, choose a model that aligns with your truck’s bed dimensions, the typical tools you transport, and the climate you operate in. For frequent site access and weather protection, prioritizing weather sealing, sturdy latching, and durable aluminum construction will yield long-term reliability.