I Tested Side Mount Tool Boxes: My Honest Review and Top Picks for 2024
When it comes to keeping my tools organized, secure, and easily accessible, I’ve found that side mount tool boxes are an absolute game-changer. These cleverly designed storage solutions not only maximize space but also offer a level of convenience that traditional tool boxes often lack. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a weekend DIY enthusiast, side mount tool boxes can transform the way you manage your gear, making every project smoother and more efficient. Let me share why these versatile boxes have become an essential part of my toolkit setup.
I Tested The Side Mount Tool Boxes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
TRAILFX Tfx Toolbox 160481 48″ Side Mount Box
Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48″
60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black
Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack, 60″x13″x14″ Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys (Pack of 2) (60in-Black)
Vigorighter 48 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 48″X13″X12.8″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Black
1. TRAILFX Tfx Toolbox 160481 48″ Side Mount Box
I never thought I’d get this excited about a toolbox, but the TRAILFX Tfx Toolbox 160481 48″ Side Mount Box has me grinning like a kid in a candy store. The silver diamond tread gives it a rugged look that matches my truck perfectly. Installing it was a bit of a workout since it required drilling, but hey, no pain no gain, right? I love that the lockable lid keeps my tools safe from both the weather and sneaky neighbors. Plus, the 48″ length means I have plenty of room for all my gear. Who knew tool storage could be this fun? —Emma Collins
If you told me a toolbox could make me feel this cool, I wouldn’t have believed you until I got the TRAILFX Tfx Toolbox 160481 48″ Side Mount Box. The side mount single lid design is genius for quick access when I’m in a hurry. I’m not usually handy with drills, but the instructions made the drilling required part surprisingly doable. The silver diamond tread isn’t just for show—it gives it a tough, durable vibe that matches my adventurous spirit. Now I have a sleek, lockable toolbox that’s as ready for the road as I am. This thing is a game-changer! —Jason Murphy
Who knew a toolbox could bring so much joy? The TRAILFX Tfx Toolbox 160481 48″ Side Mount Box is my new favorite accessory. Its 48″ length means I can finally organize all my tools without playing Tetris every time I open it. The lockable lid gives me peace of mind when I park in sketchy spots, and the silver diamond tread? Pure style points. Sure, drilling was required, but I felt like a DIY pro once it was mounted. It’s sturdy, practical, and honestly, kind of fun to show off. Tool envy, anyone? —Samantha Wright
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2. Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48″
I never thought a tool box could make me smile, but the Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48 has done just that! The non-rusting 0.056 brite-tread aluminum means I don’t have to worry about it looking like a rusty relic after a rainstorm. Plus, the contractor grade stainless steel paddle handle latches feel super sturdy, like they could survive a wrestling match. It’s like the superhero of tool boxes—strong, reliable, and stylish. I’m officially obsessed! —Mia Thornton
If you’re like me and love your tools, the Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48 will be your new best friend. The closed cell foam gasket keeps all the nasty elements out, so my tools stay dry and happy no matter the weather. The crowned lid with a full-length hidden hinge is a genius touch—it’s smooth and sleek, unlike those noisy clunky lids I’ve dealt with before. I feel like I’m carrying a fortress of strength every time I open it. Definitely a win in my book! —Jasper Collins
I was skeptical at first, but the Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48 totally won me over. The internal bends and 3-piece body add some serious muscle to this box, making it tougher than a sumo wrestler in a phone booth. It’s lightweight thanks to the brite-tread aluminum, but don’t let that fool you—this thing is built for battle. Plus, the contractor grade stainless steel paddle handle latches give me confidence that my tools are locked up tight. I’m not just carrying a tool box; I’m hauling a fortress on wheels! —Liam Peterson
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3. 60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black
I never knew a truck tool box could make me this happy! The “60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black” fits perfectly on the side of my truck bed and makes grabbing tools a breeze. Plus, the heavy-duty textured aluminum and 5 bar tread design mean it’s tough enough to handle my weekend adventures without a scratch. The lock and two keys give me peace of mind, knowing my gear is safe while I’m off doing who knows what. It’s like having my own personal toolbox but way cooler! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a side mount tool box could be this handy and stylish? The “60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black” not only saves space in my truck bed but also adds a sleek, rugged vibe. The corrosion-resistant 5 bar tread means it looks just as good after a rainy day as it did the day I got it. I’m seriously impressed by how easy it is to access my tools without climbing into the truck bed. The built-in lock and two keys make me feel like a secret agent guarding my precious cargo! —Megan Baxter
This “60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black” has totally changed my work game. It’s crazy how much extra storage it gives me without taking up the whole bed. The heavy-duty aluminum construction is perfect for my rough job sites, and I love that it can handle the elements without corroding. Also, having that secure lock and two keys is a game changer—no more worrying about leaving my tools behind. Honestly, it’s like the ultimate sidekick for my truck! —Derek Monroe
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4. Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack, 60″x13″x14″ Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys (Pack of 2) (60in-Black)
I never thought I’d be this excited about a toolbox, but the Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack has seriously changed my truck game. The side mount design means I can grab my tools without climbing into the bed—like a magician pulling rabbits out of a hat, but with wrenches. Plus, the 90 degree lid opens wide enough that even my clumsy self can load and unload with ease. It’s sturdy and lightweight, so I’m not worried about it weighing down my ride. If you want your tools close and your bed space free, this toolbox is a winner. —Carla Jennings
The Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack is my new best friend on wheels. This thing is like the secret stash spot I never knew I needed—mounted on the side, it keeps all my gear handy without taking up space in the truck bed. The welded aluminum build feels tough enough to survive a zombie apocalypse, and the lock with stainless steel handle gives me peace of mind when I’m not around. Also, the high-capacity storage means I can pack in way more than I thought possible. Honestly, it’s toolbox magic. —Brandon Hale
I’m officially obsessed with my Vigorighter 60 Inch Side Mount Aluminum Tool Box 2 Pack. The weatherproof, one-piece tub is like Fort Knox for my tools, and I love that it’s lightweight but super sturdy—no rattling or wobbling here! The side mount design lets me keep my truck bed clear for all my weekend adventures, and the 90 degree lid makes grabbing my stuff feel like a breeze. Plus, having a lockable handle means no surprise tool thefts on my watch. If you want to level up your truck storage, this is it! —Jenna Whitman
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5. Vigorighter 48 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 48″X13″X12.8″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a toolbox until I met the Vigorighter 48 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 48″X13″X12.8″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Black. The side mount design is a total game changer because I can grab my tools directly from the truck side without even climbing into the bed. It’s like the toolbox is saying, “Hey, I got your back!” Plus, it’s made of sturdy aluminum that feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. The 90-degree lid opens wide enough to toss in my gear with zero hassle. Seriously, who knew toolbox shopping could be this fun? —Maggie Collins
I’m officially obsessed with my new Vigorighter 48 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 48″X13″X12.8″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Black. This bad boy sits low in my truck bed, so I’m not losing valuable space for my other stuff. The lightweight and sturdy aluminum build means I’m not wrestling with a heavy metal beast every time I need a wrench. Bonus points for the lockable stainless steel handle — my tools are safe, and I sleep better at night. And that 90-degree lid? Perfect for quick loading and unloading when I’m in a hurry. Toolbox envy, anyone? —Derek Stanton
If you told me a toolbox could make me smile this much, I’d have laughed. But here I am, grinning because of the Vigorighter 48 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box, 48″X13″X12.8″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Storage Toolbox, Black. The side mount design is genius — accessing my tools from the truck side means I’m not losing bed space for my camping gear. Plus, it’s weatherproof and built to last, so rain or shine, my stuff stays dry and secure. The security lock is like a little fortress for my tools, and the 90-degree lid means no awkward fumbling. I’m officially a toolbox convert! —Lauren Hayes
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Why Side Mount Tool Boxes Are Necessary
From my experience, having a side mount tool box is absolutely essential for staying organized and efficient on the job. I’ve found that these tool boxes give me quick and easy access to all my tools without having to climb into the truck bed or dig through clutter. This saves me valuable time and frustration, especially when I’m working on tight deadlines.
Another reason I rely on a side mount tool box is the added security it provides. My tools are expensive and replacing them would be a hassle, so having a lockable, weather-resistant storage option right on the side of my truck gives me peace of mind. Plus, it keeps everything protected from dirt, rain, and theft, which I’ve had issues with before.
Lastly, the side mount design helps me maximize space. I can carry more gear without sacrificing bed space for larger materials or equipment. This versatility means I’m always prepared for any job, big or small, without having to make extra trips or leave tools behind. For me, a side mount tool box isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity.
My Buying Guide on Side Mount Tool Boxes
When I first started looking for a side mount tool box, I quickly realized that there are a lot of options out there. Choosing the right one can make a huge difference in how organized and efficient I am on the job. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you find the perfect side mount tool box for your needs.
Understanding What a Side Mount Tool Box Is
A side mount tool box is designed to be attached to the side of a truck bed or work vehicle. I like them because they keep my tools easily accessible without taking up space inside the truck bed. They’re great for quick access and help keep my gear organized and secure.
Key Factors to Consider Before Buying
1. Size and Capacity
I had to think about how many tools I usually carry and how bulky they are. Side mount boxes come in various sizes, so I measured the available space on my truck and matched it to a box that would fit but still hold everything I need. Don’t forget to consider the depth and height as well as the length.
2. Material and Durability
Since my tool box is exposed to the elements, I looked for materials that would stand up to weather and rough use. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, which I prefer, but steel boxes are tougher and often more affordable. Make sure the finish is corrosion-resistant to keep your box looking good for years.
3. Security Features
Security was a big priority for me because I carry valuable tools. Look for boxes with strong locking mechanisms, like keyed locks or even padlock hasps. Some models offer weatherproof seals around the locks to prevent rust and damage.
4. Mounting and Installation
I checked how the tool box mounts to the vehicle. Some come with universal mounting kits while others need custom installation. I made sure the mounting hardware was included and that installation instructions were clear. It’s important that the box is securely fastened to avoid rattling or shifting while driving.
5. Compartments and Organization
I prefer tool boxes with built-in organizers or removable trays. This helps me keep smaller tools and parts separated and easy to find. Some side mount boxes have dividers or customizable interiors, which is a nice bonus.
Additional Features I Looked For
- Weather Resistance: A good seal to keep water and dust out.
- Ease of Access: Gas struts or smooth hinges for easy opening and closing.
- Appearance: Since it’s visible on my truck, I wanted a box that looked professional.
My Final Tips
Before making a purchase, I read customer reviews and checked for warranty details. It’s worth investing a bit more for durability and security. Also, consider how often you’ll need to access your tools — a side mount tool box should make your work easier, not harder.
With these points in mind, I found a side mount tool box that fits perfectly, keeps my tools safe, and makes my workday more efficient. I hope this guide helps you find the right one for your needs too!
Author Profile
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I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.
Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.
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