Ever find yourself wishing your truck bed had a bit more room, or that your tools weren’t always in the way? You’re not alone. Many truck owners face the same challenge: needing to carry essential gear without sacrificing precious cargo space or blocking your view. Choosing the perfect low profile truck tool box can feel like a puzzle, with so many shapes, sizes, and features to consider.
That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of low profile truck tool boxes. This guide is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll explore what makes a low profile box a game-changer, helping you understand the benefits and the key things to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident in picking a tool box that fits your truck, your needs, and your budget, all while keeping your tools secure and your truck bed open for business.
Our Top 5 Low Profile Truck Tool Box Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Low Profile Truck Tool Box Detailed Reviews
1. UWS EC10473 69-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box with Low Profile
Rating: 9.0/10
The UWS EC10473 69-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box is a tough and smart way to keep your gear safe and organized in your truck bed. Its sleek, low-profile design looks great and helps you see better out of your rear window. This box is built to last, made from strong aluminum and designed to handle whatever you throw at it.
What We Like:
- RigidCore Lid: This lid is super strong. It has a special foam inside that stops it from bending or getting stuck.
- Low Profile: The lid sits low, which means you can see out your back window more easily.
- Extra-Thick Aluminum: The box is made from a single, thick piece of welded aluminum. This makes it very strong and durable.
- Stainless Steel Handles: The paddle handles are made of stainless steel. They are strong and won’t rust, even in bad weather. They are also spaced out for easy access.
- Convenient Organization: The box has a tool tray and holders for screwdrivers. This helps you keep small items neat and easy to find.
- Easy Installation: This tool box comes with everything you need to install it. It has pre-drilled holes and all the hardware.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: The box only comes in matte black. Some people might want other color choices.
- Size Specificity: While it comes in different sizes, you need to make sure you choose the right one for your truck.
This UWS truck tool box is a fantastic investment for anyone who needs reliable and organized storage. It offers excellent durability and smart features that make it a standout choice.
2. Northern Tool Slim Low Profile Crossover Truck Tool Box – Aluminum
Rating: 9.3/10
The Northern Tool Slim Low Profile Crossover Truck Tool Box is a smart way to keep your tools organized and safe. This box fits neatly behind your truck’s cab. Its sleek, gloss black finish looks great. The aluminum body is strong but still light. You can easily access your gear with the paddle latches. This box offers a good amount of storage for its size.
What We Like:
- The one-piece aluminum body is tough and resists rust.
- Reinforced lid brace adds extra strength to the lid.
- Self-adjusting strikers ensure the lid closes securely every time.
- The low profile design doesn’t block your rear window view.
- Paddle latches are simple to operate, even with gloves on.
What Could Be Improved:
- The interior capacity of 677 cu. in. might be a bit small for some users with many large tools.
- The wall thickness of 0.045 inches, while standard, might not withstand extreme abuse.
This tool box offers a solid blend of durability and convenience for truck owners. It’s a practical solution for keeping your tools secure and accessible.
3. UWS EC10603 72-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box with Low Profile
Rating: 9.5/10
The UWS EC10603 72-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box is a rugged and smart storage solution for your pickup truck. This box keeps your gear secure and organized, so you can access what you need quickly.
What We Like:
- The RIGIDCORE LID is super strong. It has a special foam inside that stops it from getting bent.
- The lid is low-profile. This means it won’t block your view out the back window of your truck.
- It’s made from EXTRA-THICK ALUMINUM. The one-piece tub is welded, making it very tough.
- The STAINLESS STEEL HANDLES are built to last. They resist weather and are easy to grab from either side of the truck.
- It offers CONVENIENT ORGANIZATION. A tool tray and screwdriver holders help keep small items tidy and easy to find.
- Installation is EASY TO INSTALL. It comes with pre-drilled holes and all the hardware you need.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the matte black finish looks great, it might show scratches more easily than a gloss finish.
- The 72-inch size is large, so it might not fit in all truck beds.
Overall, this tool box is a solid investment for any truck owner who needs reliable and organized storage. It’s built tough and designed for convenience.
4. UWS EC10611 Pull Handle 72-Inch Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box with Low Profile
Rating: 9.3/10
The UWS EC10611 is a 72-inch heavy-wall aluminum truck tool box designed to keep your gear safe and organized. Its low-profile lid means you can still see out your back window, and the strong construction protects your tools from the weather.
What We Like:
- The RIGIDCORE LID uses a special foam filling. This makes the lid super strong and stops it from getting bent.
- It’s made from EXTRA-THICK ALUMINUM. The one-piece tub is welded from strong 0.058-inch aluminum, so it can take a beating.
- It has STAINLESS STEEL HANDLES. These won’t rust and are easy to grab, even with gloves on. They keep your tools secure.
- The box offers CONVENIENT ORGANIZATION. It comes with a tool tray and holders for screwdrivers, so your small items stay put.
- Installation is EASY. The tool box has pre-drilled holes and comes with the hardware you need to mount it to your truck.
- The low-profile lid gives you a better view out your rear cab window.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the aluminum is thick, some users might prefer an even heavier gauge for extreme conditions.
- The silver finish, while classic, could show scratches more easily than darker options over time.
This UWS tool box offers great security and organization for your truck. It’s built tough to handle your work or adventure needs.
5. COOLBAG Crossover Tool Box Deep 14″ H x 12″ D x 60″ L Waterproof Lockable Aluminum Black Truck Storage Box Compatible with Chevy Colorado
Rating: 9.5/10
Upgrade your truck’s storage with the COOLBAG Crossover Tool Box. This spacious, waterproof aluminum box fits perfectly in mid-size trucks like the Chevy Colorado, Ford Ranger, and GMC Canyon. It’s designed to keep your tools and gear organized and protected, whether you’re heading to a job site or a weekend adventure.
What We Like:
- Generous size: 60″ L x 12″ W x 14″ H offers plenty of space for tools, camping gear, and more.
- Durable construction: Made from sturdy aluminum with a protective powder coating, it’s built to last.
- Secure storage: The lockable design, complete with keys, keeps your items safe from theft and the elements.
- Versatile use: Ideal for various activities like camping, fishing, and construction.
- Easy organization: Fits well under the truck bed or inside, making tool access simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size compatibility: While designed for mid-size trucks, double-checking exact measurements is always a good idea.
- Lock mechanism: While secure, some users might prefer a more robust locking system for extreme conditions.
This COOLBAG tool box is a solid choice for any truck owner who needs reliable and secure storage. It offers great value and functionality for a variety of needs.
Choosing the Right Low Profile Truck Tool Box: Your Essential Guide
Why a Low Profile Truck Tool Box?
A low profile truck tool box sits below the top edge of your truck’s bed rails. This design offers several advantages. It keeps your tools and gear out of sight from potential thieves. It also helps maintain your truck’s visibility, especially when you’re towing a trailer. Plus, it gives your truck a cleaner, sleeker look.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size and Capacity
- Length: Measure your truck bed. Make sure the box fits comfortably.
- Depth: Low profile boxes are shallower than traditional ones. Think about what tools you need to store.
- Volume: This tells you how much stuff the box can hold.
2. Security Features
- Locking Mechanism: Look for sturdy locks. Some boxes have one lock, others have two.
- Keyed Entry: Most boxes use keys. Some offer keyless options.
- Tamper-Resistant Design: This makes it harder for people to break into your box.
3. Lid Design
- Hinges: Strong hinges prevent the lid from sagging.
- Gas Shocks: These help the lid open and close smoothly. They also hold the lid open for you.
- Weather Stripping: This seals the box against rain and dust.
4. Mounting and Installation
- Mounting Brackets: Easy-to-use brackets make installation quicker.
- Compatibility: Ensure the box fits your specific truck model and year.
Important Materials
The material of your tool box affects its durability and weight. Most low profile truck tool boxes are made from metal.
- Aluminum: This is a popular choice. It’s lightweight and resists rust. It’s also strong enough for most uses.
- Steel: Steel is very strong and durable. However, it’s heavier than aluminum. It can also rust if not treated properly.
The finish of the box is also important. Powder coating adds a layer of protection against scratches and corrosion.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Box Better?
- Thick Gauge Metal: Thicker metal means a stronger, more durable box.
- Well-Made Welds: Strong, clean welds indicate good craftsmanship.
- High-Quality Locks and Hinges: These parts are used often, so they need to be robust.
- Good Weather Seals: A tight seal keeps your tools dry and clean.
What Can Make a Box Less Good?
- Thin Metal: This can bend or dent easily.
- Poorly Made Welds: Weak welds can break over time.
- Cheap Locks: These can be easy to break or get stuck.
- Flimsy Hinges: They can sag or break, making the lid hard to close.
User Experience and Use Cases
A low profile truck tool box is a practical addition for many truck owners.
- Contractors and Tradespeople: They keep tools organized and secure on job sites.
- DIY Enthusiasts: Store tools for home projects and hobbies.
- Outdoor Adventurers: Carry gear for camping, fishing, or hunting.
- Everyday Use: Keep essential items like jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and emergency supplies handy.
The ease of access and security are major benefits. You can easily grab what you need without climbing into the truck bed. The peace of mind knowing your gear is safe is invaluable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of a low profile truck tool box?
A: The main benefit is that it keeps your tools out of sight and maintains your truck’s visibility, especially when towing.
Q: What are the most common materials used for these tool boxes?
A: The most common materials are aluminum and steel.
Q: Is aluminum or steel better for a truck tool box?
A: Aluminum is lighter and rust-resistant, while steel is stronger but heavier and can rust if not protected.
Q: How do I know what size tool box to buy?
A: You need to measure your truck bed to ensure the box fits comfortably and doesn’t block other essential truck functions.
Q: Are low profile tool boxes secure?
A: Yes, they are designed with locking mechanisms to keep your tools safe from theft.
Q: What does “low profile” mean in relation to a truck tool box?
A: It means the box sits below the top edge of your truck’s bed rails.
Q: Will a low profile tool box block my rear view?
A: No, it is designed to sit below the rails, so it will not obstruct your view.
Q: Can I install a low profile tool box myself?
A: Most are designed for easy DIY installation with simple mounting brackets.
Q: How do I protect my tool box from the weather?
A: Look for boxes with good weather stripping and consider a powder-coated finish for extra protection.
Q: What kind of tools can I store in a low profile truck tool box?
A: You can store a wide range of tools, from hand tools and power tools to emergency supplies and outdoor gear.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.