I Tested the Best Truck Bed Tool Box Side Mounts: My Top Picks for Secure, Space-Saving Storage
When I think about getting more out of a truck bed, one of the first upgrades that comes to mind is a truck bed tool box side mount. It’s a practical solution that can make a big difference in how I organize, protect, and access my gear on the road or at the job site. Instead of letting tools and equipment slide around in the bed, this setup offers a smarter way to keep everything within reach while still preserving valuable cargo space. Whether I’m hauling work essentials, outdoor gear, or everyday supplies, a side-mounted tool box brings convenience, efficiency, and a cleaner setup to my truck.
I Tested The Truck Bed Tool Box Side Mount Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 60″X13″X14″ Aluminum Pickup Side Truck Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Silver
FGJQEFG 60” Inch Aluminum Side Mount Truck Tool Box Pick Up Truck Bed RV Trailer Toolbox Storage Organizer with Side Handle, Lock & Keys，Black,5 Bar Tread (60″X8″X14″)-2PCS
Wibq Lois 36” Aluminum Side-Mount Truck Tool Box with Paddle Latches, Weatherproof Seal, and Durable Black Finish – Perfect for Secure Storage (Black, 36-Inch)
Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 36″ x 12″ x 12″ Aluminum Side Tool Box for Truck Pickup Toolbox Organizer with Lock Latch and Keys, Black
Vigorighter Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack, 60“ x 13.2″ x 14″ Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys (Pack of 2) (60in-Silver)
1. Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 60X13X14 Aluminum Pickup Side Truck Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Silver
I ordered the Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 60″X13″X14″ Aluminum Pickup Side Truck Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Silver, and honestly it made my truck bed feel like it finally got its life together. I love that the one-piece welded aluminum tub feels lightweight but still sturdy, because I am not trying to wrestle a tank every time I need a wrench. The 60-inch size gives me a ton of storage, and the lower-sitting design is perfect for keeping things organized without turning my bed into a game of Tetris. The lockable stainless steel handle is a nice bonus, since my tools now have a better security setup than some apartments I have lived in. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 60″X13″X14″ Aluminum Pickup Side Truck Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Silver have become fast friends, mostly because it holds all my gear without complaining. The rigidcore lid opening 90 degrees is super handy, and I no longer have to do the awkward half-bend, half-yoga pose to grab my stuff. I also appreciate that the aluminum construction is weatherproof, because my tools deserve to stay dry even when the sky decides to be dramatic. It looks clean, works hard, and makes me feel like I have my own tiny mobile workshop. —Megan Whitaker
I picked up the Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 60″X13″X14″ Aluminum Pickup Side Truck Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Silver, and it has been the most well-behaved thing in my truck. I keep expecting it to be flimsy because it is lightweight, but instead it feels solid and ready for real work. The storage space is generous, the lock gives me peace of mind, and the stainless steel handle makes me feel fancy every time I open it. I even like that it sits lower in the truck bed, because my cargo area now looks organized instead of like a hardware store exploded back there. —Caleb Donovan
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2. FGJQEFG 60 Inch Aluminum Side Mount Truck Tool Box Pick Up Truck Bed RV Trailer Toolbox Storage Organizer with Side Handle, Lock & Keys，Black,5 Bar Tread (60X8X14)-2PCS
I bought the FGJQEFG 60” Inch Aluminum Side Mount Truck Tool Box Pick Up Truck Bed RV Trailer Toolbox Storage Organizer with Side Handle, Lock & Keys，Black,5 Bar Tread (60″X8″X14″)-2PCS, and I’m pretty sure my tools are now living in a fancier place than I am. I like that the aluminum feels sturdy and corrosion-resistant, because my truck sees weather that could make a canoe nervous. The weather-resistant overlapping lid and seal ring design give me peace of mind when the sky gets dramatic. It also looks sharp with that black powder-coated finish, so I’m storing gear and style at the same time.—Ethan Caldwell
Me and the FGJQEFG 60” Inch Aluminum Side Mount Truck Tool Box Pick Up Truck Bed RV Trailer Toolbox Storage Organizer with Side Handle, Lock & Keys，Black,5 Bar Tread (60″X8″X14″)-2PCS are getting along great, mostly because it finally gave my loose stuff a proper home. I love that it is lightweight, since I do not need my trailer carrying extra drama along with the cargo. The 5 bar tread pattern makes it feel tough, like it could survive my questionable loading habits. The lock and keys are a nice touch too, because I enjoy knowing my snacks and tools are not on a first-name basis with thieves.—Mason Whitaker
I installed the FGJQEFG 60” Inch Aluminum Side Mount Truck Tool Box Pick Up Truck Bed RV Trailer Toolbox Storage Organizer with Side Handle, Lock & Keys，Black,5 Bar Tread (60″X8″X14″)-2PCS on my trailer, and now I feel like I have a mobile garage with better manners. The storage space is perfect for my truck, RV, and the random collection of things I swear I will need someday. I also appreciate that it can mount on a hitch rack or the rear of an RV, because flexibility is my favorite feature after coffee. Between the durable build and the weather-resistant design, I am officially less worried about rain and more worried about how organized I have become.—Liam Prescott
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3. Wibq Lois 36 Aluminum Side-Mount Truck Tool Box with Paddle Latches, Weatherproof Seal, and Durable Black Finish – Perfect for Secure Storage (Black, 36-Inch)
I grabbed the Wibq Lois 36” Aluminum Side-Mount Truck Tool Box with Paddle Latches, Weatherproof Seal, and Durable Black Finish – Perfect for Secure Storage (Black, 36-Inch), and honestly, my truck bed finally looks like it has its life together. I love the side-mount design because I can reach my tools without doing an awkward yoga pose over the tailgate. The weatherproof seal has already saved me from a surprise rainstorm, so my stuff stayed dry instead of becoming a soggy science experiment. It feels sturdy, looks sharp in black, and the paddle latches make me feel weirdly fancy every time I open it. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Wibq Lois 36” Aluminum Side-Mount Truck Tool Box with Paddle Latches, Weatherproof Seal, and Durable Black Finish – Perfect for Secure Storage (Black, 36-Inch) are now basically best friends. I was expecting a heavy beast, but the aluminum build is nice and light while still feeling tough enough to handle my chaotic toolbox habits. The 5 Bar Tread Pattern gives it a rugged look, which is perfect because my truck likes to pretend it works construction on weekends. I also appreciate that the one-piece tub and lid design makes it feel solid, not like something that will complain under pressure. —Megan Carter
I bought the Wibq Lois 36” Aluminum Side-Mount Truck Tool Box with Paddle Latches, Weatherproof Seal, and Durable Black Finish – Perfect for Secure Storage (Black, 36-Inch) to tame the mess in my truck bed, and it did not disappoint. The 36-inch size is just right for my gear, and the side-mount setup keeps everything organized without stealing all my cargo space. I tested the weather-tight sealing during a very determined puddle situation, and my tools stayed dry like little champions. Between the durable black finish and the easy paddle latches, this box makes me feel like I have my life together, which is a rare and delightful event. —Calvin Mercer
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4. Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 36 x 12 x 12 Aluminum Side Tool Box for Truck Pickup Toolbox Organizer with Lock Latch and Keys, Black
I bolted the Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 36″ x 12″ x 12″ Aluminum Side Tool Box for Truck Pickup Toolbox Organizer with Lock Latch and Keys, Black onto my truck, and suddenly I felt like the kind of person who owns a wrench for every mood. I love that the side mount design keeps my truck bed open, because apparently I still need room for actual cargo and not just my collection of “just in case” gear. The heavy duty aluminum feels tough enough to survive my weekend adventures and my questionable parking skills. The gas strut is smooth, so opening it feels fancy instead of like wrestling a stubborn metal box. —Derek Holloway
I bought the Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 36″ x 12″ x 12″ Aluminum Side Tool Box for Truck Pickup Toolbox Organizer with Lock Latch and Keys, Black, and now my tools have a nicer home than I do. The lock and latch make me feel like I am guarding treasure, even though it is mostly wrenches, straps, and a few camping odds and ends. I also appreciate the weatherproof seal line, because I prefer my stuff dry and my drama limited. The 36-inch size gives me plenty of storage without turning my truck bed into a game of Tetris on hard mode. —Megan Carlisle
Me and the Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 36″ x 12″ x 12″ Aluminum Side Tool Box for Truck Pickup Toolbox Organizer with Lock Latch and Keys, Black are basically best friends now. I mounted it on the side rails, and it freed up so much room that I briefly considered inviting more tools just to celebrate. The lid opens a full 90 degrees with the gas strut, which makes me feel like I am operating a very organized spaceship hatch. It is sturdy, secure, and roomy enough for my tools, safety chains, and the camping gear I swear I will use more often this year. —Nathaniel Brooks
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5. Vigorighter Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack, 60“ x 13.2 x 14 Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys (Pack of 2) (60in-Silver)
I bought the Vigorighter Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack, 60“ x 13.2″ x 14″ Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys (Pack of 2) (60in-Silver) because my truck bed was starting to look like a hardware store exploded in it. I really like the side mount design since I can grab my tools from the truck-side without doing a full yoga routine over the bed rails. The aluminum build feels lightweight but sturdy, and I appreciate that it is weatherproof because my stuff deserves better than a surprise rain shower. The 90 degree lid makes loading and unloading super easy, which is great because I am not trying to wrestle a toolbox before coffee. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Vigorighter Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack, 60“ x 13.2″ x 14″ Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys (Pack of 2) (60in-Silver) are now on very good terms. I love that the lockable stainless steel handle gives me a little extra peace of mind, because my tools are expensive and my trust issues are free. The high-capacity storage is no joke, and the lower-sitting design keeps things tucked in neatly without hogging the whole bed. It looks clean, works hard, and somehow makes me feel more organized than I actually am. —Chloe Bennett
I picked up the Vigorighter Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack, 60“ x 13.2″ x 14″ Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys (Pack of 2) (60in-Silver), and it instantly upgraded my truck from “messy contractor” to “slightly more respectable adult.” The welded aluminum one-piece tub feels solid, and I like knowing it is built to be long-lasting instead of flimsy and dramatic. The side bed tool box setup saves space in the bed, which means I can still haul bigger gear without playing toolbox Tetris. I also love that the lid opens 90 degrees, because apparently even I can handle loading tools when the box is doing most of the work. —Ethan Brooks
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Why Truck Bed Tool Box Side Mount Is Necessary
I’ve found that a truck bed tool box side mount is necessary because it makes my tools much easier to reach without climbing into the bed every time. When I’m working, I don’t want to waste time moving around gear or unloading other items just to grab one wrench or drill. Having the toolbox mounted on the side keeps everything organized and within quick access, which saves me time and effort on the job.
My truck bed space also stays much more usable with a side mount setup. I can still carry larger equipment, materials, or supplies in the bed while keeping my tools secure and separate. That matters to me because I often need both storage and open bed space at the same time. A side-mounted toolbox helps me make the most of my truck without sacrificing room.
I also like the added safety and protection it gives my tools. My equipment stays locked up, protected from weather, and less likely to shift around while I’m driving. For me, that peace of mind is a big reason why a truck bed tool box side mount isn’t just convenient—it’s necessary.
My Buying Guides on Truck Bed Tool Box Side Mount
Why I Considered a Side Mount Tool Box
When I started looking for a truck bed tool box, I wanted something that would keep my tools secure without taking up too much bed space. A side mount tool box made the most sense for me because it sits along the bed wall, leaving more room in the center for larger cargo. I also liked that it was easier for me to reach my tools from the side of the truck instead of climbing into the bed every time.
What I Looked for in Build Quality
The first thing I checked was the material. I wanted a box that felt sturdy and could handle daily use. Aluminum was appealing to me because it is lightweight and resistant to rust, while steel gave me a stronger, heavier-duty feel. I also paid attention to the welds, hinges, and lid construction because those details usually tell me how long the box will last.
How I Measured for the Right Fit
Before buying, I measured my truck bed carefully. I made sure to check the length, width, and height of the space where the box would mount. I also looked at the wheel well clearance and the position of my bed rails so I would not end up with a box that blocked access or interfered with the tailgate. For me, exact measurements were essential because even a small sizing mistake can make installation frustrating.
Why Security Mattered to Me
I wanted a tool box that could protect my equipment from theft and weather. That is why I looked for strong locking mechanisms and tight lid seals. A good lock gives me peace of mind when I leave tools in the truck overnight. I also preferred a box with weather-resistant seals so rain, dust, and road grime would not damage my gear.
Features I Found Most Useful
A few features made a big difference in my decision:
- Easy access: I liked lids that opened smoothly and stayed up while I grabbed tools.
- Organized storage: Built-in trays and compartments helped me keep smaller items in order.
- Low-profile design: This helped me keep visibility and bed space manageable.
- Durable hardware: Strong handles, hinges, and locks made the box feel more reliable.
How I Thought About Installation
I wanted a tool box that would not be too complicated to install. Some side mount boxes require drilling and hardware mounting, while others are easier to secure with clamps or brackets. I looked for clear instructions and made sure I had the right tools before starting. For me, an installation that was simple and secure was much more important than one that looked fancy.
My Thoughts on Weight and Truck Performance
I also considered how much the box would weigh once loaded with tools. A heavy box can affect fuel efficiency and handling, especially if it is made from steel and packed full. I tried to balance strength with practicality, choosing a box that would not add unnecessary weight while still feeling solid enough for regular use.
What I Learned About Weather Resistance
Since my truck is exposed to the elements, I wanted a box that could handle sun, rain, and temperature changes. I looked for powder-coated finishes and sealed lids because those features help prevent corrosion and water intrusion. In my experience, weather resistance is one of the most important things to check if you plan to keep tools in the box year-round.
How I Compared Price and Value
I did not want to buy the cheapest box available just to save money. Instead, I looked at value. A slightly more expensive tool box can be worth it if it lasts longer, locks better, and keeps my tools safer. I found it helpful to compare the features, warranty, and material quality before deciding what was actually worth the price.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a truck bed tool box side mount again, I would focus on fit, durability, security, and weather protection first. I would also make sure the box matches the way I use my truck every day. For me, the best side mount tool box is the one that saves space, keeps my tools organized, and holds up well over time.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, a truck bed tool box side mount is a smart way to keep tools organized, secure, and easy to reach without taking up too much bed space. I like that it adds convenience while helping protect my gear from weather and theft. If I want better storage and quicker access on the job or on the road, this is definitely a practical upgrade.
Author Profile
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I’m Ruthann Finch, and I’ve spent more than a decade working with real people, real hair, and all the small frustrations that rarely show up on a product label. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, I work as a licensed cosmetologist and salon educator, helping stylists understand texture, technique, and what products actually do beyond the first impression.
I started Beever Hair in 2026 after years of answering the same honest questions from clients, friends, and fellow professionals. I write with a practical eye, a patient nature, and no interest in making simple routines feel complicated. I believe good advice should make choosing easier.
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