Side Boxes For Pickup Trucks: The Ultimate Guide to Organization, Security, and Accessibility

Side Boxes For Pickup Trucks: The Ultimate Guide to Organization, Security, and Accessibility pickup.truckstrend.com

For anyone who owns a pickup truck, the bed is a canvas of potential, a versatile space for hauling everything from lumber to camping gear. However, without proper organization, it can quickly become a chaotic mess of tools, equipment, and personal items. This is where side boxes for pickup trucks come into play. More than just simple storage containers, side boxes are purpose-built solutions designed to enhance your truck’s utility by providing secure, weather-protected, and easily accessible storage, transforming your truck from a mere vehicle into a highly efficient mobile workstation or adventure base.

Whether you’re a seasoned contractor needing to keep power tools secure and within reach, an avid outdoorsman requiring safe storage for recovery gear, or simply a truck owner looking to tidy up your cargo area, side boxes offer an invaluable upgrade. They represent a smart investment in efficiency, security, and peace of mind, allowing you to maximize your truck’s potential without compromising its primary function.

Side Boxes For Pickup Trucks: The Ultimate Guide to Organization, Security, and Accessibility

Why Choose Side Boxes? The Undeniable Benefits

The decision to add side boxes to your pickup truck is driven by a host of practical advantages that significantly improve your vehicle’s functionality and your daily routine.

• Enhanced Organization: Side boxes provide dedicated compartments for tools, equipment, straps, and other essentials. This means no more rummaging through a pile of gear in the bed; everything has its place, saving you time and frustration.
• Improved Security: Most side boxes feature robust locking mechanisms, protecting your valuable tools and equipment from theft. Unlike an open bed, a locked side box offers a secure sanctuary for your belongings, whether you’re on a job site or parked overnight.
• Increased Accessibility: Positioned along the bed rails or over the wheel wells, side boxes allow for quick and easy access to your items without needing to climb into the truck bed. This is particularly beneficial for frequently used tools or emergency gear.
• Maximizing Bed Space: By storing smaller items and tools in side boxes, you free up the main truck bed for larger cargo like lumber, ATVs, or furniture. This optimizes your truck’s hauling capacity and ensures the bed remains clear for its primary purpose.



• Weather Protection: Constructed from durable materials and equipped with weather-sealed lids, side boxes protect your contents from rain, snow, dust, and UV rays, extending the lifespan of your tools and equipment.

Types of Side Boxes: Finding Your Perfect Match

The market offers a diverse range of side boxes, each designed to cater to specific needs and truck configurations. Understanding the different types is crucial for making an informed decision.

• Fender Well Boxes: These boxes are designed to fit snugly over the wheel wells inside your truck bed.

  • Pros: They utilize often-wasted space, keeping the main bed floor clear. They are typically lower profile, maintaining rear visibility.
  • Cons: Generally offer smaller storage capacity compared to other types. Access might be slightly more challenging if the bed is fully loaded.

• Top-Mount Boxes (Side Mount Crossover): These are perhaps the most popular type, mounting along the bed rails and often spanning a significant portion of the bed’s length. They are accessed from the side of the truck.

  • Pros: Offer substantial storage capacity, excellent accessibility from outside the truck, and keep the bed floor mostly clear.
  • Cons: Can obstruct a portion of the bed’s length, potentially limiting the length of items you can carry. Some models may require drilling for installation.

• Low-Profile Side Boxes: Similar in design to top-mount boxes, but they sit much lower on the bed rails, often flush with the rail height.

  • Pros: Maintain better rear visibility, offer a sleeker aesthetic, and provide good accessibility.
  • Cons: Slightly less storage capacity than full-height top-mount boxes due to their lower profile.

• Gull-Wing Boxes: These are a variation of top-mount or crossover boxes, characterized by two lids that open upwards from the center, resembling a gull’s wings.

  • Pros: Allow access to the entire contents of the box from either side of the truck, making organization and retrieval very efficient.
  • Cons: The dual-lid design can be slightly more complex and potentially more expensive.

• Underbody/Underside Boxes: While more commonly seen on flatbed trucks, these can be adapted for standard pickups, mounting below the truck bed or frame.

  • Pros: Keep the truck bed entirely clear, out of sight, and highly secure.
  • Cons: Limited capacity, lower to the ground making access less convenient, and require specific mounting points.

Key Considerations Before Buying

Choosing the right side box involves more than just picking a type. Several factors should influence your decision to ensure the box meets your specific needs and fits your truck perfectly.

• Material:
  • Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and durable. Often features a diamond plate finish for added grip and aesthetics.
  • Steel: Extremely strong and durable, offering superior security. However, it’s heavier and susceptible to rust if not properly coated.
  • Polyethylene (Plastic): Affordable, lightweight, and rust-proof. Ideal for lighter-duty use or those on a budget.
• Size & Capacity: Measure your truck bed dimensions carefully, especially the length and height available along the rails or over the wheel wells. Consider what you plan to store to ensure the box has adequate volume.
• Security Features: Look for robust locking mechanisms (e.g., push-button, paddle, cam locks), sturdy latches, and reinforced lids to deter theft. Some higher-end models feature tamper-resistant locks.
• Mounting System: Assess how the box attaches to your truck. Some use no-drill clamp systems, which are easy to install and remove. Others require drilling into the bed rails, offering a more permanent and secure mount.
• Weather Sealing: A good side box will have a tight-fitting lid with a strong weather seal (gasket) to keep water, dust, and debris out. Look for overlapping lid designs for extra protection.
• Finish: Options include polished aluminum, powder-coated black, or textured finishes. Choose one that matches your truck’s aesthetics and offers additional protection against scratches and corrosion.
• Accessibility: Consider how easily you can reach items inside the box, especially if it’s a deep model. Some boxes include internal trays or dividers for better organization.

Installation Guide: Getting Your Side Box Set Up

Installing a side box is a manageable DIY project for most truck owners, though the exact steps will vary by model and mounting system. Always refer to the manufacturer’s specific instructions.

1. Gather Your Tools: You’ll typically need a measuring tape, marker, drill (if drilling is required), appropriate drill bits, a wrench or socket set, and potentially some silicone sealant.
2. Position the Box: Carefully place the side box in its desired location on your truck bed rails or over the wheel wells. Ensure it’s level and doesn’t interfere with other truck accessories or the opening/closing of the tailgate.
3. Mark Mounting Points: If your box requires drilling, mark the precise locations for the mounting holes. Double-check your measurements to ensure proper alignment.
4. Drill Pilot Holes (if applicable): Using the appropriate drill bit size (as per manufacturer instructions), carefully drill pilot holes through the truck bed rails. Apply a rust-preventative paint or silicone sealant to the drilled edges to prevent corrosion.
5. Secure the Box: Place the side box back onto the mounting points. Secure it using the provided bolts, washers, and nuts, or the clamp system. Tighten all fasteners evenly to ensure a stable and secure fit.
6. Test Fit and Function: Open and close the box lid multiple times to ensure smooth operation. Check that the locking mechanism engages properly and that the box is securely mounted without any wobbling.

Practical Advice: If you’re uncomfortable with drilling into your truck, consider a no-drill clamp-on model or seek professional installation. Always ensure the box is mounted securely to prevent movement during transit, which could damage both the box and your truck.

Maintenance and Longevity Tips

To ensure your side box serves you well for years to come, a little routine maintenance goes a long way:

• Regular Cleaning: Wash the exterior regularly with mild soap and water to remove dirt, grime, and road salt.
• Lubricate Locks and Hinges: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to hinges and locking mechanisms periodically to ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion.
• Check Mounting Hardware: Periodically inspect all bolts and clamps to ensure they remain tight. Re-tighten as necessary.
• Inspect Weather Seals: Check the rubber or foam seals around the lid for cracks or damage. Replace them if they are compromised to maintain water resistance.

Side Boxes For Pickup Trucks: Estimated Price Table

The cost of side boxes varies widely based on material, size, brand, and features. This table provides estimated price ranges for common types.

Type of Side Box	Material	Capacity Range	Estimated Price Range ($)	Key Features/Notes
Fender Well Box	Aluminum, Poly	Small to Medium	$150 – $400	Utilizes wasted space over wheel wells, often low profile, good for smaller tools.
Top-Mount Box	Aluminum, Steel, Poly	Medium to Large	$250 – $800	Sits on bed rails, easy access from outside the truck, wide range of sizes and features.
Low-Profile Box	Aluminum, Poly	Medium	$300 – $700	Similar to top-mount but sits lower for better rear visibility and sleek look.
Gull-Wing Box	Aluminum, Steel	Large	$500 – $1200+	Dual lids open upwards for full access from both sides of the truck, excellent for organized storage.
Underbody Box	Steel, Aluminum	Small to Medium	$100 – $500	Mounts below truck bed/frame, keeps bed clear, often used for recovery gear or smaller tools; may require custom mounting.
Specialty/Heavy-Duty	Aluminum, Steel	Large to Extra Large	$800 – $2000+	Commercial-grade, extra robust locks, thicker gauge material, sometimes includes integrated drawers or heavy-duty slides for specific trades (e.g., mechanics, electricians).

Note: Prices are estimates and can vary significantly based on brand reputation, specific features (e.g., integrated lighting, power outlets), and the retailer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do side boxes fit all trucks?
A1: While many side boxes are designed for universal fit within certain truck classes (e.g., full-size, mid-size), it’s crucial to check the specific dimensions of the box and your truck bed. Pay attention to bed length, width, and wheel well placement to ensure compatibility.

Q2: Are side boxes waterproof?
A2: Most quality side boxes are designed to be highly weather-resistant, meaning they’ll protect contents from rain, snow, and dust. They achieve this with tight-fitting lids and robust weather seals. However, very few are truly "waterproof" in the sense of being submersible. For sensitive electronics, additional dry bags inside the box are recommended.

Q3: Can I install a side box myself?
A3: Yes, many side boxes are designed for DIY installation. Models with clamp-on systems are particularly easy. Those requiring drilling may be more involved but are still manageable for someone with basic tools and mechanical aptitude. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Q4: Do side boxes affect fuel economy?
A4: Any added weight or change in aerodynamics can theoretically affect fuel economy. However, the impact of a side box is usually minimal, especially compared to large truck toppers or significant roof rack setups. The effect is often negligible for most drivers.

Q5: How do I choose the right size?
A5: Start by measuring the available space in your truck bed where you intend to mount the box. Then, consider what you primarily plan to store. If it’s mostly small hand tools, a smaller fender well box might suffice. For power tools, larger equipment, or multiple items, a top-mount or gull-wing box would be more appropriate. Balance capacity with your need to access the main truck bed.

Conclusion

Side boxes for pickup trucks are more than just accessories; they are essential tools for maximizing the utility, organization, and security of your vehicle. By providing dedicated, weather-protected, and easily accessible storage, they transform your truck bed from a potential clutter zone into an efficient and functional space. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson, a weekend warrior, or simply a truck owner seeking better organization, investing in the right side box can significantly enhance your productivity, protect your valuable gear, and bring a new level of convenience to your daily routine. Choose wisely, install correctly, and enjoy the unparalleled benefits of a truly organized pickup truck.