What Are the Styles of Truck Tool Boxes?

Ideal for transporting tools, fishing, and sports equipment, there's no doubt that a truck tool box offers many benefits. However, with a variety of styles available, it's important to take the time to determine which style is most appropriate for your pickup.

What's Available? Here is some basic information on a couple of the more popular types of truck tool boxes that are on the market. Top Mount Truck Tool Boxes: Mounted behind the cab of the truck, this style typically features several different sized compartments that are covered with a single lid. There also are top mount tool boxes that are designed with one large compartment to handle larger tools.

Side Mount Truck Tool Boxes:
Designed in a number of sizes to fit compact and full-size beds, a side mount tool box is mounted to the side rail. Much like the top mount tool box, a single lid that opens from the top covers the unit.

Crossover Truck Tool Boxes:
Designed to fit practically any size of truck, a crossover truck tool box fits snuggly behind the cab and can be bolted to the bed.

Think About Its Purpose
It's important to carefully consider how the truck tool box will be used when selecting a style. Think about the following questions to determine the right style for you.

• What tools will be stored in it?
• How much room do those tools require?
• How frequently will you need to access the tools?
• What style offers you the easiest access to your tools?
• How much cargo room does it leave you?
• Is that enough?

Other Considerations
Obviously, theft is an issue that needs to be addressed with any style of truck tool boxes. Look for truck tool boxes that lock into the bed or can be bolted down to prevent theft. You also will want the lid to have a strong lock to avoid having the contents stolen.