For tradespeople, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who uses their truck as a mobile workshop, secure and organized storage is non-negotiable. A crossover truck tool box sits across the bed rails behind the cab, offering a perfect balance of easy access and protected space. These boxes safeguard your valuable tools and equipment from the elements and theft while keeping your truck bed tidy and functional.
Choosing the right box involves considering size, construction material, and lid design to match your specific needs. From heavy-duty aluminum workhorses to innovative gull-wing designs, the market offers a solution for every truck owner. This roundup highlights ten of the best crossover truck tool boxes available, designed to provide the secure storage and peace of mind you require.
The Best Crossover Truck Tool Boxes for Your Ride
- UWS EC10473 69-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box
- caqeg Gull Wing Crossover Truck Tool Box, 70″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed
- UWS EC10603 72-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box
- Dee Zee DZ8170DB Red Label Crossover Tool Box – Extra Deep
- Dee Zee DZ6163N Specialty Series Narrow Crossover Tool Box
- Dee Zee DZ6170NB Specialty Series Narrow Crossover Tool Box
- Vigorighter 70″ Aluminum Crossover Truck Tool Box, Gull Wing Cross Bed
- Crossover Aluminum Truck Tool Box with Luggage rack for Pickup
- RealTruck TruXedo TL – TonneauMate Toolbox – Fits Most Full Size Trucks
- Husky 60 in. Crossover Truck Tool Box
UWS EC10473 69-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box
This UWS toolbox is engineered for maximum durability and strength. Its standout feature is the RigidCore lid technology, which is filled with a solid foam to prevent binding and add significant structural integrity. The low-profile design minimizes obstruction of your rearview vision, a critical safety consideration for daily driving.
Constructed from welded 0.058-inch aluminum, the one-piece tub provides a robust and rust-resistant foundation. Security is handled by dependable stainless steel paddle handles that are wide-spread for easy access from either side of your truck. This combination of features makes it a top choice for professionals who need a reliable and secure storage solution.
caqeg Gull Wing Crossover Truck Tool Box
The caqeg toolbox offers a practical gull-wing design that enhances accessibility. The double aluminum lids allow you to open only one side at a time, providing easy half-box access without needing to open the entire unit. This is ideal for situations where you need to grab a specific tool quickly.
Built from heavy-duty textured aluminum with a five-bar tread, this box is designed to resist corrosion and withstand harsh weather. The double V-shaped disc cover on the lids adds to the overall strength and rigidity of the construction. It’s a smart, space-saving storage organizer that combines convenience with durable, weatherproof security.
UWS EC10603 72-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box
For truck owners requiring more space, this 72-inch model from UWS delivers the same premium features in a larger format. It incorporates the patented RigidCore lid technology for a top that is exceptionally strong and resistant to warping or binding. The low-profile lid continues to prioritize a clear view from your rear window.
The extra-long tub is formed from welded 0.058-inch aluminum, ensuring a long-lasting and sturdy storage compartment. Like its smaller counterpart, it is equipped with wide-spread stainless steel paddle handles for reliable, long-term security and easy operation. This is a heavy-duty solution for those with extensive tool collections.
Dee Zee DZ8170DB Red Label Crossover Tool Box
The Dee Zee Red Label series is built for demanding use, and this extra-deep model provides ample room for larger tools and equipment. It is constructed from non-rusting 0.056 Brite-Tread aluminum, which is protected by a durable gloss black powder coat finish to maintain its appearance.
Strength is a key focus, with a double V-pan lid stiffener that creates exceptional rigidity to handle heavy loads and harsh conditions. The box is secured with contractor-grade stainless steel paddle handle latches that include a locking mechanism. The extra depth makes it a versatile storage unit for a wide range of professional and recreational gear.
Dee Zee DZ6163N Specialty Series Narrow Crossover Tool Box
If bed space is at a premium, the Dee Zee Specialty Series Narrow toolbox is the perfect solution. Its narrow profile is designed to save valuable space in your truck bed, allowing you to carry larger items alongside your secured tools. Despite its compact footprint, it doesn’t compromise on build quality.
The box is made from non-rusting 0.056 Brite-Tread aluminum, ensuring longevity and resistance to the elements. This model is ideal for truck owners who need essential, secure storage without taking up the entire width of the bed, making it a smart choice for daily drivers and weekend adventurers alike.
Dee Zee DZ6170NB Specialty Series Narrow Crossover Tool Box
This model offers the same space-saving narrow profile as the DZ6163N but comes with a protective gloss black powder coat finish for enhanced style and durability. The coating helps shield the aluminum from scratches and UV damage, keeping the box looking new for longer.
Constructed from sturdy 0.056 aluminum, it includes lockable stainless steel paddle handle latches for added security of your tools and equipment. This box is an excellent option for those who want the functionality of a narrow-profile toolbox with the added aesthetic and protective benefits of a black powder coat.
Vigorighter 70″ Aluminum Crossover Truck Tool Box
The Vigorighter toolbox combines a rugged build with user-friendly access. Its gull-wing double lid design allows you to open the toolbox from either side of your truck, providing maximum efficiency when retrieving tools. The box is built with textured aluminum featuring a five-bar tread pattern for superior durability and corrosion resistance.
Engineered with weather-resistant seals, this toolbox provides complete weatherproof protection against rain, snow, and dust. The lightweight yet robust construction ensures long-term reliability without adding excessive weight to your vehicle. It’s a well-rounded option that prioritizes both easy access and all-weather security.
Crossover Aluminum Truck Tool Box with Luggage rack
This versatile toolbox offers more than just secure storage; it includes an integrated luggage rack on top, adding valuable external carrying capacity. The stripe tread pattern reinforces the aluminum material, providing maximum strength and longevity while remaining resistant to rust and corrosion.
Security and protection are handled by a stainless steel latch and a weather guard rubber seal that prevents moisture from seeping inside. The lightweight design minimizes added weight to your truck, making it a perfect storage solution for organizing tools while offering the bonus utility of a roof rack for larger, bulkier items.
RealTruck TruXedo TonneauMate Toolbox
The RealTruck TruXedo TonneauMate is a unique and versatile storage solution designed to work seamlessly with a truck bed cover. Its elevated mounting system allows you to place it anywhere along the truck bed while still having full use of the entire bed floor underneath.
This durable box can hold up to 200 lbs of cargo and can be used as a toolbox, cooler, or general container. Security is achieved through a lock and key mechanism on the box itself, which is further secured by the truck bed cover installed above it. This creates a highly secure, dual-layer protection system for your valuables.
Husky 60 in. Crossover Truck Tool Box
Husky is a trusted name in storage, and their 60-inch crossover toolbox brings that reputation for value and durability to your truck bed. This size is an excellent fit for mid-size trucks or for those who prefer a more compact storage footprint without sacrificing capacity.
Known for their robust construction and practical designs, Husky tool boxes typically feature reliable latching systems and weather-resistant seals to keep your tools dry and secure. This model is a solid, no-nonsense choice for anyone seeking a dependable and affordable crossover tool box from a well-known brand.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Crossover Truck Tool Box
So, you’re in the market for one of the best crossover truck tool boxes. I get it, trying to pick the right one can feel a bit overwhelming with all the options out there. I’ve been through it myself, and the key is to focus on a few critical factors that will make sure your gear stays safe and the box fits your life.
First up, let’s talk about fit. This is the most important step. You need to measure your truck bed’s width between the rails, not the overall bed width. A crossover box sits on top of the bed rails, so you need that exact measurement to ensure a proper, snug fit. Also, consider your truck’s cab style. If you have a rear window that opens, like on some crew cabs, you’ll need a specific low-profile design to avoid blocking it. There’s nothing worse than getting a box home only to find it doesn’t fit.
Next, material and construction are huge for security and durability. Most boxes are made from aluminum, steel, or polyethylene plastic. Aluminum is my go-to for a great balance of strength and light weight; it won’t rust, which is a massive plus. Steel boxes are super tough and often more secure, but they’re heavier and can be prone to rust if the finish gets scratched. Polyethylene boxes are rust-proof and weather-resistant, but they might not offer the same level of security against a determined thief. Look for features like reinforced lids, continuous hinges, and sturdy locking mechanisms.
Speaking of locks, security is why we buy these things. A simple latch isn’t enough. Look for a box with a robust locking system. T-handle locks with keyed cylinders are common and effective. Some even offer single-key systems that work with your truck’s ignition key, which is incredibly convenient. For the best security, consider a dual-latch system that locks on both sides, making it much harder to pry open.
Finally, think about the lid style and your storage needs. Crossover boxes typically have a single lid or double lids (also called saddle boxes). A single lid gives you a large, open space, great for storing long items. Double lids are my preference for organization; you can access tools from either side of the truck without having to walk around, and you can separate different types of gear. Also, check the interior. Is it bare metal, or does it have a liner? A liner protects your tools from scratches and helps prevent condensation. Drain plugs are another small but vital feature to let any accidental moisture escape.
Taking the time to think about fit, material, security, and design will lead you directly to the perfect crossover truck tool box for your needs. It’s an investment that pays off by keeping your equipment organized and, most importantly, secure.
FAQ
What is the most secure type of crossover truck tool box?
In my experience, crossover truck tool boxes made from heavy-duty steel with a dual-latch locking system are generally the most secure. The steel construction resists prying and forced entry better than aluminum or plastic. A dual-latch system, where the lock mechanism secures the lid on both the left and right sides, makes it extremely difficult for someone to jimmy open one side. Look for models with integrated lock rods and high-security key cylinders for the best protection for your gear.
Will a crossover tool box fit my truck with a bed liner?
Most of the time, yes, it will fit just fine. A spray-in or drop-in bed liner usually doesn’t add enough thickness to cause a problem. However, it’s a very good idea to account for it when you take your measurements. If you have a particularly thick drop-in liner, you might need to look for a box with adjustable mounting clamps or feet that can accommodate the extra height. I always recommend checking the manufacturer’s specifications for your specific box model to see if they mention bed liner compatibility.
How much weight can a typical crossover box hold?
Weight capacity varies a lot by model and material. A sturdy aluminum box can often hold between 300 to 500 pounds distributed across the lid, while a heavy-duty steel model might handle even more. It’s crucial not to exceed this limit. Overloading the lid can damage the hinges, compromise the seal, and even warp the box, making it easier for water to get in or for the lock to fail. Always check the manufacturer’s stated weight capacity for the specific model you’re considering. I use mine for heavy tools, but I make sure to distribute the weight evenly inside.
Are these tool boxes completely waterproof?
Most quality crossover truck tool boxes are weather-resistant, but I’d be cautious about calling any of them 100% completely waterproof. They are designed to keep out rain and snow with features like rubber gaskets around the lid. However, in a driving rainstorm or if you pressure wash it directly at the seams, some moisture might eventually get in. The term often used is “weather-tight.” For extra protection, make sure the drain plugs are clear so any condensation or minor leaks can escape, and avoid storing moisture-sensitive items directly on the floor of the box.
Can I install a crossover tool box by myself?
Yes, you absolutely can install one by yourself; I’ve done it many times. They are designed for a relatively straightforward DIY installation. The key is to have a friend help you lift the box into place, as they can be awkward and heavy to handle alone. The installation typically involves positioning the box on the bed rails, adjusting the mounting clamps to fit snugly underneath the rails, and then tightening everything down with a wrench. Just take your time, follow the instructions, and make sure it’s secure before you load it up with tools. Having a helper for the first five minutes makes the whole process much safer and easier.