If you haul tools or equipment in your truck bed, a tool box can help you keep things organized and damage-free. A low profile tool box can help you find your materials quickly and easily without losing valuable sight lines.
What Is a Low Profile Truck Tool Box?
Image via Flickr by Diamond Back Covers.
A low profile truck tool box is a type of storage box that lies low in a truck bed. Unlike standard bed boxes, low profile tool boxes allow for full visibility through your back window and rearview mirror. This extra visibility makes towing much easier.
Advantages of Low Profile Truck Tool Boxes
Low profile truck tool boxes provide many advantages to truck owners:
- Organized storage of your materials/tools
- Theft prevention thanks to built-in locks
- Fit under a tonneau cover for the truck bed
- Protect your tools from the elements
- Allow for full visibility out of the rear window
How to Choose a Low Profile Truck Tool Box
Here are some important features to consider when choosing a low profile truck tool box:
Durability
Choose a truck tool box that will not only protect your valuables but look good for years to come. Tool boxes made of steel are highly durable but can be very heavy. Tool boxes made from plastic never rust, but they are not durable over time, especially when exposed to sunlight. Many boxes are made from aluminum, which is highly durable and can be treated for rust resistance. Compare the thickness of the tool box as well. Thicker walls and lids are heavier but provide much better dent resistance.
Lid Type
The standard lid opens the entire tool box at once and must be accessed from the bed. Gull-type lids are split down the middle, allowing them to be opened from either side of the truck. No matter which lid type you choose, be sure your tool box lid is impervious to water. Any water leaking into your toolbox can damage expensive tools over time.
Weather Resistance
If you work in an area with extreme temperatures, be sure to choose a tool box that can withstand the elements. Plastic boxes degrade quickly in salty climates and harsh sunlight. Metal boxes withstand both heat and cold and are can be treated to prevent corrosion due to the elements.
Locks/Security
Most truck tool boxes have locks to protect your valuables. Look for a box that is sturdy and can be securely attached to your truck bed.
Tool Storage/Organization
The toolbox layout greatly affects its usability. One large box may lead to small tools getting misplaced as they slide around during transit. Many boxes include sliding tool bins for frequently used small items, such as screwdrivers. A box with adjustable compartments allows you to change your toolbox organization to suit your specific needs.
Top Pick #1: CamLocker Low Profile Crossover Tool Box
The CamLocker Low Profile Crossover Tool Box is one of the most popular low-profile boxes on the market today. This tool box fits most full-size pickup trucks. CamLocker owners enjoy many benefits:
- Every CamLocker is insulated and completely weather sealed. Your tools will stay dry no matter how much rain or snow falls.
- Carpet on the inside of the box protects your tools from damage and reduces noise. The carpet on the bottom is completely removable and washable.
- Every box is made from 0.063-gauge stainless steel and is hand-welded in America.
CamLocker boasts a unique lock mechanism that provides unmatched security for your valuable tools. The box can be opened from both sides, using easy-to-reach T-handles.
Top Pick #2: Tuxedo TL
The TruXedo TL low-profile toolbox is one of the most versatile boxes available today.
- The Tuxedo TL can be mounted anywhere in the truck bed. TruXedo also uses an elevated mounting system that keeps the floor of the truck free for use.
- The Tuxedo’s sturdy aluminum construction allows you to store up to 200 pounds of gear in the box.
- A strong locking mechanism on top of the Tuxedo toolbox keeps your valuables safe.
The TruXedo is easily installed in most trucks by simply clamping to the bed side rails. Every TruXedo is guaranteed for two years.
Top Pick #3: UWS Truck Tool Box
UWS truck tool boxes are designed to keep your gear secure for years. These tool boxes have several special features that customers love.
- Every UWS truck tool box has a patented RigidCore foam-filled lid, guaranteed to remain warp-free and bend-free for years.
- UWS builds its tool boxes from extra-thick diamond-plate aluminum to provide superior strength and sturdiness. Boxes are made with welded single-piece tubs for unsurpassed water resistance.
- Built-in sliding tool trays keep your smaller tools from getting lost in the tool box.
UWS tool boxes also boast stainless steel lock handles to keep your items safe. Installation is a snap thanks to pre-drilled mounting slots.
Our Methodology
Customer experience is important to us. We go over hundreds of customer reviews to choose our top three products. We also consider total sales, years in business, and overall value.
FAQs About the Low Profile Truck Tool Box
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about low profile truck tool boxes:
How do I know if a tool box will fit my truck?
Before ordering a truck tool box, you must know the dimensions of the tool box and your exact truck bed measurements. You can get the dimensions of the tool box online. To measure your truck for a tool box:
- Measure the width of your truck bed from one side to the other. Measure from the top of your bed, not the bottom. This measurement is equal to the width required for the top of the tool box that sits on the side rails.
- Measure the height of your truck bed from the floor to the top of the side rails. This measurement is equal to the height of your toolbox. You can choose a toolbox that has a smaller height than the depth of your bed, but is not larger.
Can I use a low profile truck tool box with a Fifth Wheel?
Yes! A low profile truck tool box is a must when hitching a fifth wheel. Unlike a standard tool box, a low profile box doesn’t obstruct the full turning radius of your fifth wheel.
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