After researching dozens of truck storage boxes, comparing manufacturer specifications, published security and weather-resistance standards, and aggregating owner feedback from thousands of reviews, we selected the top seven options. Our evaluation focuses on real-world performance, build quality, corrosion resistance, locking mechanisms, and ease of installation. Whether you need a low-profile box for a tonneau cover or a heavy-duty chest for tools, this guide will help you choose the right one.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Dee Zee DZ8750 Heavy Duty Chest Best Heavy Duty Chest Aluminum construction, 18.5 cu ft capacity, diamond plate texture |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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UWS EC15100 Low Profile Tool Box Best Low Profile for Tonneau Covers Aluminum, 15-inch height, single lid, 15 cu ft capacity |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Rugged Ridge 13551.09 Lockable Storage Box Best for Jeep Gladiator / Mid-Size Trucks Polyethylene, 0.9 cu ft capacity, fits behind wheel well |
8.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Weather Guard 149-0-001 Steel Crossover Tool Box Most Secure Steel Box Steel, 16 cu ft, single lid, powder coated |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Truck Bed Box by Bestop 51815-01 Best Weatherproof Plastic Box Polyethylene, 6 cu ft, lockable, drain plug |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Dee Zee DZ4300 Aluminum Saddle Box Best Saddle Box for Truck Beds Aluminum, 3.5 cu ft per side, diamond plate |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Drive Auto Products 13621 Truck Tool Box Budget Pick Steel, 12 cu ft, single lid, black powder coat |
7.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Dee Zee DZ8750 Heavy Duty Chest: Best Heavy Duty Chest
The Dee Zee DZ8750 is a welded aluminum chest that offers exceptional durability and weather resistance. In our evaluation based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, it withstands heavy loads and harsh outdoor conditions. The continuous rubber seal effectively keeps out dust and rain, and the push-button latch with padlock hasp provides decent security. However, its weight (over 100 lbs empty) makes installation a two-person job and reduces payload capacity.
This box is ideal for contractors or serious overlanders who need maximum toughness and don’t mind the weight. Skip it if you frequently need to remove the box or if your truck has limited payload capacity. Some owners reported the latch mechanism can be stiff when new, requiring lubrication.
- Welded aluminum with reinforced lid for high load capacity
- Continuous lid seal keeps out dust and moisture
- Push-button latch with padlock hasp for added security
Pros: Extremely durable, resists dents and corrosion; Large capacity fits full-size truck beds
Cons: Very heavy, requires two people to install
2. UWS EC15100 Low Profile Tool Box: Best Low Profile for Tonneau Covers
The UWS EC15100 is a popular low-profile crossover box designed to work with soft and hard folding tonneau covers. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, its 15-inch height clears most covers while still offering 15 cubic feet of storage. The diamond plate aluminum is tough, and the stainless steel hinges resist rust. However, in heavy rain, some water can seep past the lid seal, so it’s best for tools that can tolerate occasional moisture.
This box is a great choice for truck owners who want to keep their bed covered and still have organized storage. Skip it if you need a fully waterproof seal or plan to carry sensitive electronics. The push-button lock is convenient but can be picked easily, so we recommend adding a padlock.
- Low profile design fits under most tonneau covers
- Diamond plate aluminum with stainless steel hinges
- Push-button lock with key for quick access
Pros: Fits under tonneau covers without interference; Lightweight for easy installation
Cons: Not as weatherproof as some full-seal models
3. Rugged Ridge 13551.09 Lockable Storage Box: Best for Jeep Gladiator / Mid-Size Trucks
The Rugged Ridge 13551.09 is a compact storage box designed for mid-size trucks like the Jeep Gladiator. In our research, owner feedback highlights its perfect fit behind the wheel well, making use of otherwise wasted space. The rotomolded polyethylene is tough and UV-resistant, but it’s not as rigid as metal boxes. The lockable latch provides basic security, though the plastic can be pried open with enough force.
This box is ideal for Gladiator owners or anyone with a mid-size truck needing small-item storage for recovery gear or tie-downs. Skip it if you need a large capacity or heavy-duty security. Some owners noted the lid doesn’t seal completely, so it’s not dust-proof.
- Rotomolded polyethylene for impact and UV resistance
- Fits in the bed of Jeep Gladiator and mid-size trucks
- Lockable latch with key and padlock hasp
Pros: Lightweight and easy to move; Fits tight spaces like behind wheel wells
Cons: Small capacity, not for large tools
4. Weather Guard 149-0-001 Steel Crossover Tool Box: Most Secure Steel Box
The Weather Guard 149-0-001 is a steel crossover box that prioritizes security. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the 16-gauge steel and slam latch make it one of the most theft-resistant options. The powder coat finish is durable, but once scratched, rust can develop quickly in salty environments. The weight (around 80 lbs) makes installation cumbersome, and the steel can dent if struck hard.
This box is best for professionals who store expensive tools and need peace of mind. Skip it if you live in a coastal area or regularly haul corrosive materials, as rust may become an issue. Some owners complained that the lid hinges can sag over time with heavy loads.
- 16-gauge steel with reinforced lid and slam latch
- Powder coat finish resists rust and scratches
- Built-in lock with heavy-duty hasp
Pros: Excellent security with robust locking mechanism; Very durable, can withstand heavy abuse
Cons: Heavy and prone to rust if paint chips
5. Truck Bed Box by Bestop 51815-01: Best Weatherproof Plastic Box
The Bestop 51815-01 is a plastic storage box that offers good weather resistance and lightweight convenience. In our evaluation based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the rotomolded polyethylene is tough and won’t rust or dent. The drain plug is handy for washing out dirt, but the lid seal can allow some dust ingress. The key lock is basic and can be bypassed, so it’s not for high-value items.
This box is ideal for campers and off-roaders who need a lightweight, weatherproof container for gear. Skip it if you need to secure expensive power tools. Some users reported the lid warps slightly in extreme heat, causing the lock to misalign.
- Rotomolded polyethylene with UV inhibitors
- Drain plug for easy cleaning
- Lockable lid with key lock
Pros: Lightweight and easy to install; Weatherproof and resistant to dents
Cons: Not as secure as metal boxes
6. Dee Zee DZ4300 Aluminum Saddle Box: Best Saddle Box for Truck Beds
The Dee Zee DZ4300 is a saddle box that mounts over the wheel wells, providing storage on both sides. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the aluminum construction is lightweight and corrosion-resistant, but the 3.5 cu ft per side is limited. The padlock hasp allows for your own lock, but the latch mechanism feels flimsy. Some owners reported the lids can be difficult to open if the box shifts slightly during installation.
This box is suitable for owners who want to keep small tools and accessories organized without losing much bed space. Skip it if you need a single large compartment or if you frequently carry wide items that would hit the boxes. The value is lower compared to similar saddle boxes from other brands.
- Two-piece saddle design mounts over wheel wells
- Diamond plate aluminum with stainless steel hardware
- Padlock hasp for added security
Pros: Maximizes space on both sides of the bed; Lightweight aluminum construction
Cons: Small individual compartments
7. Drive Auto Products 13621 Truck Tool Box: Budget Pick
The Drive Auto Products 13621 is a budget-friendly steel tool box that offers basic storage at a low price point. In our research, owner feedback notes that the steel is thinner than premium boxes, making it prone to dents and rust if the powder coat chips. The twist latch and key lock provide minimal security, and the lid seal is not very effective against moisture. It’s best for light-duty use in dry climates.
This box is a good entry-level option for occasional users who don’t need heavy-duty protection. Skip it if you live in a humid or salty environment, as rust may develop quickly. Many owners reported that the mounting brackets are flimsy and can break if over-tightened.
- Steel construction with black powder coat finish
- Single lid with twist latch and key lock
- Includes mounting hardware
Pros: Very affordable option; Decent capacity for the price
Cons: Thin steel can dent easily
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between a steel and aluminum truck storage box?
Steel boxes offer superior security and strength but are heavier and prone to rust if the finish is compromised. Aluminum boxes are lighter, corrosion-resistant, and easier to install, but may not be as dent-resistant. Consider your climate, payload, and security needs. For coastal areas, aluminum is better; for maximum theft protection, steel is preferable.
Will a truck storage box fit under my tonneau cover?
It depends on the cover type and box height. Low-profile boxes (15 inches or less) typically fit under soft roll-up and folding hard covers. Full-height crossovers may only work with retractable covers or no cover. Measure the clearance under your tonneau and compare with the box height before purchasing.
How do I secure a truck storage box to prevent theft?
Most boxes come with built-in locks, but adding a padlock with a hardened shackle improves security. For maximum theft deterrence, use a box that bolts through the bed floor with carriage bolts and lock nuts. Some owners also use security cables or install the box inside a locked camper shell.
Can I install a truck storage box myself?
Yes, most boxes come with mounting hardware and instructions. Lightweight aluminum or plastic boxes can be installed by one person, but heavy steel boxes may require a helper. Basic tools like a drill, wrench, and measuring tape are usually sufficient. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the truck bed.
How do I maintain a truck storage box to prevent rust and corrosion?
For steel boxes, regularly inspect for chips in the paint and touch up with matching paint. Wash the box with mild soap and water, and apply a wax or rust inhibitor. Aluminum boxes require less maintenance but should be cleaned to remove road salt. Lubricate hinges and latches periodically to keep them functioning smoothly.
Our Verdict
After evaluating all seven options, the Dee Zee DZ8750 Heavy Duty Chest earns our top pick for its exceptional durability, large capacity, and weather resistance. For a versatile low-profile box that works under tonneau covers, the UWS EC15100 is an excellent runner-up with a balance of fit and function.
Last reviewed and spec-checked: August 20, 2025. We re-check our picks and listings periodically.
