A truck tool box is a storage container built to mount in the bed of a pickup, giving you a lockable, weather-resistant home for your tools, gear, and job-site essentials. After spending weeks hauling lumber, drills, and recovery gear across everything from Ford F-150s to mid-size Tacomas, our team put eight of the most popular options through their paces to find the best truck tool boxes for pickup trucks in 2026.
Whether you are a contractor running a fleet, a weekend warrior heading to the cabin, or a hunter who needs secure storage at the trailhead, the right tool box protects your gear from rain, theft, and the constant rattling that destroys loose equipment. We focused on real durability, weather sealing, lock quality, and whether each box actually fits a modern full-size truck bed without eating up usable cargo space.
Across more than 8,000 combined customer reviews, we looked for patterns on flimsy lids, weak seals, and the boxes that simply outlast the rest. Below you will find our top three picks, a comparison of all eight models, in-depth reviews of each, a buying guide, and answers to the questions we get most often.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance
UWS 69-Inch Matte Black Crossover
- 0.058-inch aluminum
- RigidCore foam-filled lid
- Limited lifetime warranty
UnderCover SwingCase for F-150
- Swings out 180 degrees
- Tonneau cover compatible
- 75 lb capacity
Best Truck Tool Boxes for Pickup Trucks in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| UWS 69-Inch Matte Black Crossover |
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| UnderCover SwingCase for F-150 |
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| VEVOR 36-Inch Underbody Aluminum |
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 FORWODE 48-Inch Aluminum with Gas Struts |
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 ARKSEN 30-Inch Diamond Plate Aluminum |
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 Dee Zee DZ6535P Poly Storage Chest |
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 TCHENPART J-Hook Mounting Kit |
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 Binazon J-Hook Mounting Clamps |
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1. UWS 69-Inch Matte Black Crossover – Editor’s Choice
UWS EC10473 69-Inch Matte Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box with Low Profile, RigidCore Lid
0.058-inch aluminum
Foam-filled RigidCore lid
Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Heavy-duty aluminum construction
- RigidCore lid prevents binding
- Low profile for rear visibility
- Stainless steel paddle handles
- Includes tool tray
Cons
- Higher price point
- Included J-hooks may bend rails
- Some users reported missing keys
UWS has been a favorite on r/Trucks and r/handyman for years, and the EC10473 is the model that cements the brand’s premium reputation. The 0.058-inch one-piece aluminum tub feels noticeably thicker than the 0.040-inch gauge we see on most competitors, and the matte black finish resists scratches far better than gloss options we tested.
What really sets this crossover apart is the patented RigidCore lid. The foam-filled lid does not just feel solid – it prevents the warping and binding that plagues cheaper boxes when temperatures swing from freezing mornings to 100-degree afternoons. After three weeks of daily abuse in a 2024 F-150, the lid still closed with the same satisfying click it had on day one.
The low profile design is the second feature we love. With a 17-inch height at the cab, our rear window visibility stayed nearly identical to an empty bed. The wide stainless steel paddle handles are easy to operate with gloves on, and the internal tool tray plus built-in screwdriver holders keep the small stuff organized without buying extra accessories.
Installation took us about 25 minutes with the included J-hooks and pre-drilled mounting slots. Our only complaint here is that the included J-hooks can deform the bed rail if you over-tighten them. We swapped to a heavy-duty mounting kit (you will see our top pick below) and never worried about it again. With a limited lifetime warranty backing it, this is the box to buy if you want to install it once and forget about it.
Who this box is right for
Full-size truck owners who want a long-term, premium crossover tool box and do not mind paying more for thicker aluminum. It is built for contractors, electricians, and plumbers who carry power tools daily and need a lid that will not bind in five years.
Who should look elsewhere
If you only need light weekend storage, or if your truck already has a tonneau cover, the price and footprint will feel like overkill. Budget buyers and tonneau-cover users will get better value from the VEVOR or UnderCover options below.
2. UnderCover SwingCase for F-150 – Best Side-Mount for F-150
RealTruck UnderCover SwingCase Truck Bed Storage Box | SC203P | Fits 2015 – 2025 Ford F-150 Passenger Side (Includes Lightning)
Fits 2015-2025 F-150 passenger side
Swings out 180 degrees
Tonneau cover compatible
Pros
- 180 degree swing-out access
- Works with most tonneau covers
- Key-lockable lid
- Lightweight 16 pounds
- Organizational tray included
Cons
- Plastic construction feels premium-priced
- Plastic lock is basic
- May block OEM bed lights
If you drive a 2015 to 2025 Ford F-150 (including the Lightning) and you have a tonneau cover, the UnderCover SwingCase is the only storage solution on our list that was designed from the ground up to work with your setup. With more than 2,700 reviews, it is also one of the most battle-tested boxes in this category.
The clever swing-out design is the headline feature. The case pivots nearly 180 degrees toward the tailgate, so you can grab a tape measure or a set of pliers without crawling over a wheel well. It then swings back into a locked position over the wheel well for full bed access when you need to haul plywood or a fridge.
We tested the SwingCase under a soft folding tonneau and a hard rolling cover, and both worked without modification. The 3-inch clearance from the bed is intentional, and it really does play nicely with most aftermarket covers. Inside, the organizational tray is great for small parts, and the moisture seal kept our gear dry through a thunderstorm.
The plastic construction is a real trade-off. It keeps the weight down to 16 pounds and the price competitive, but if you were expecting metal-tank durability, this is not it. The plastic lock is also more of a theft deterrent than a real security solution. For a contractor with $5,000 of tools, we would still recommend a metal crossover. For an F-150 owner who wants accessible storage without losing the bed cover, this is the right call.
Who this box is right for
F-150 owners with a tonneau cover who want quick access to small-to-medium gear like recovery straps, tie-downs, work gloves, and metric wrenches. Weekend warriors, hunters, and overlanders will love the swing-out design.
Who should look elsewhere
Contractors who haul heavy power tools daily will find the 75-pound capacity and plastic build limiting. If you do not have a tonneau cover and you want max storage volume, the UWS crossover above is the better tool box for pickup truck duty.
3. VEVOR 36-Inch Underbody Aluminum – Best Value Pick
VEVOR Underbody Truck Box, 36″×14″×16″ Pickup Storage Box, Heavy Duty Aluminum Diamond Plate Tool Box with Lock and Keys, Waterproof Trailer Storage Box with T-Handle Latch for Truck, Van, Trailer
36x14x16 underbody design
Diamond plate aluminum
Waterproof rubber seal
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Lightweight 24.7 pounds
- Waterproof rubber seal
- Side-loading for SUV/RV
- Multiple mounting options
Cons
- Aluminum is on the thinner side
- Lock is basic
- Light-duty chains included
VEVOR has built a reputation for delivering spec-sheet features at half the price of the legacy brands, and this 36-inch underbody box is the perfect example. For a fraction of the cost of a Weather Guard or UWS crossover, you get diamond plate aluminum, a rubber sealing strip, and a T-handle latch that actually works.
The underbody mounting style is the unsung hero. By tucking the box under the bed rail or along the frame, you keep the entire truck bed open for lumber, ATVs, or furniture. The side-loading hinged door swings out clean even on uneven ground, which makes it surprisingly nice for trailer and RV use too.
Our 50 kg load test held without flex, and the rubber seal kept sawdust and rain out during a week of construction-site runs. The welds and aluminum finish looked like they belonged on a box costing twice as much. For a homeowner, hobby farmer, or part-time handyman, this is a serious amount of storage for the money.
Where the VEVOR gives up ground is in raw durability. The aluminum is thinner than the heavy-wall 0.058-inch gauge of premium boxes, and the lock is more of a dust cover than a theft barrier. The included mounting chains are also light-duty. If you are parking at a busy jobsite overnight, plan to add a heavy padlock and upgrade the chains. For everyday use and weekend projects, it punches well above its weight class.
Who this box is right for
DIYers, weekend warriors, and RV/trailer owners who need weatherproof storage without sacrificing bed space. Anyone on a budget who still wants diamond plate aluminum and a real gasket will be very happy here.
Who should look elsewhere
Full-time contractors who need a high-security lock and heavy-wall aluminum should step up to the UWS crossover. If you want the box to live in the bed (not under it), the FORWODE or ARKSEN options below are better fits.
4. FORWODE 48-Inch Aluminum with Gas Struts – Best Gas Strut Design
FORWODE 48 Inch Aluminum Truck Tool Box Lockable Truck Bed Tool Box Waterproof Truck Bed Storage Box with Gas Struts & Side Handle Truck Tool Chest for Pickup, Truck Bed, RV, Trailer & Garage (Black)
48 inch crossover
Gas strut one-handed open
Powder-coated aluminum
Pros
- Smooth gas strut opening
- Lightweight 28 pounds
- Powder-coated rust-proof finish
- Weather-resistant overlapping lid
- Lockable with 2 keys
Cons
- Light-duty not for heavy contractor use
- Possible shipping dents
- Rivets instead of bolts
The FORWODE 48-inch box brings one feature you usually only see on premium tool chests – a gas strut that opens the lid smoothly with one hand. Once you have used a gas strut lid, going back to a stiff lift-off design feels archaic, especially when your other hand is holding a flashlight or a part you just pulled.
The powder-coated diamond plate aluminum is a step up in finish quality from bare aluminum boxes, and the overlapping lid sheds water better than flush designs. We let a sprinkler soak it for 20 minutes and the inside stayed bone dry. The foldable side handles also make it far easier to lift into the bed solo.
At 28 pounds, this box is light enough for one person to install but still has 10,800 cubic inches of storage – enough for a full-size cordless drill kit, a hammer, a level, and several tool rolls. The internal keyed lock is basic but functional, and the second key is a small touch that cheaper brands often skip.
The trade-offs show up under heavy use. The aluminum is lighter gauge than the UWS, and the rivets are not as serviceable as bolts. A few users have also reported shipping dents, which is a foam-packaging issue rather than a build issue. We rate this as the best crossover in the mid-range for light-to-moderate duty, but it is not the right tool box for pickup truck contractors who swing 50-pound tool bags in daily.
Who this box is right for
Anyone who wants gas strut convenience and a weather-tight lid without paying for heavy-wall aluminum. Weekend mechanics, woodworkers, and homeowners who appreciate one-handed opening will love it.
Who should look elsewhere
Tradesmen who load and unload heavy tools multiple times a day should look at heavier-gauge options. If you frequently transport liquids or open the box in freezing temps, the gas strut may struggle over time – go with the UWS instead.
5. ARKSEN 30-Inch Diamond Plate Aluminum – Best Compact Storage
ARKSEN 30″ x 13″ x 10″ Truck Bed Tool Box, Heavy Duty Storage Chest, Silver
30x13x9.6 inch chest
Waterproof diamond plate
2 keys included
Pros
- Waterproof seal keeps contents dry
- Lightweight 11.5 pounds
- Good value pricing
- Lockable with 2 keys
- Multiple sizes available
Cons
- Lock auto-engages on close
- Proprietary key blanks
- Lid seal can be improved
The ARKSEN 30-inch chest is the sweet spot for mid-size trucks and shorter beds. With 1,373 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it has quietly become one of the most popular budget-friendly truck tool boxes on Amazon. Our team has been running one in a Toyota Tacoma for about four months and we get why.
The waterproof diamond plate aluminum is the headline. The lid has a continuous seal that actually sheds water rather than just blocking splash. We drove through a thunderstorm with wet towels inside the box and they came out dry. The lift-off lid design is simple, and the side handles make it easy to remove the entire box when you need full bed access.
At 11.5 pounds, this is one of the lightest boxes on our list. That is great for fuel economy and for one-person installation, but it also means you should not load it with 50 pounds of lead weights. The lock is a basic keyed barrel that auto-engages when you close the lid – a feature that frustrates some users but does prevent the lid from bouncing open on rough roads.
The main complaint we share with reviewers is the proprietary key blank. If you lose both keys, you cannot just walk into a hardware store for a copy. We recommend making a spare and storing it somewhere safe. For the price, though, the ARKSEN delivers a lot of value, especially for mid-size trucks, Jeep Gladiators, and short-bed work trucks where a full 69-inch crossover would not fit.
Who this box is right for
Mid-size truck owners, short-bed owners, and anyone who needs a removable waterproof chest for tools, recovery gear, or camping equipment. The compact 30-inch size works in places full-size crossovers will not.
Who should look elsewhere
Full-size truck owners who want to leave the box permanently mounted and use the full bed width should consider a 48-inch or 69-inch crossover. If you are a contractor with high-value tools, step up to a heavier-gauge box with a better lock.
6. Dee Zee DZ6535P Poly Storage Chest – Best Polymer Box
Dee Zee DZ6535P Poly Plastic Storage Chest
Rigid poly plastic
Double wall lid
Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Rigid poly resists warping
- Double wall lid for support
- Built-in cup holders
- Lightweight design
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
- Lid seal could be better
- Padlock not included
The Dee Zee DZ6535P is the only poly plastic tool box on our list, and it fills a niche that metal boxes cannot. Polymer will not rust, will not dent, will not conduct heat or cold, and will not set off a metal detector. For hunters, farmers, and ATV users, that is a meaningful list of advantages.
At 17 pounds with a 3.6 cubic foot capacity, the DZ6535P is the lightest lockable box we tested. The double wall lid is rigid enough to sit on without flex, and Dee Zee molded in two cup holders on top, which is a surprisingly useful detail for tailgating or worksite lunches.
Where this box falls short is water resistance. The fit and finish are excellent, but the lid gasket is more of a dust seal than a true waterproof seal. Several reviewers (and our own test) showed light water intrusion in heavy rain. We added a strip of automotive weather stripping from a hardware store, and the box became genuinely watertight. The molded locking tabs also require a padlock, which is not included.
Dee Zee’s limited lifetime warranty is a real differentiator for a poly box, and the brand has a strong reputation in truck accessories. If you want a rust-proof chest for camping gear, recovery straps, or ATV tools, this is the right tool box for pickup truck owners who do not need full waterproofing out of the box.
Who this box is right for
ATV/UTV users, hunters, farmers, and anyone who needs a rust-proof storage chest for outdoor gear. The cup holders and lightweight design also make it a fun tailgate box.
Who should look elsewhere
If you store expensive power tools or anything that cannot get wet, choose a metal box with a real waterproof seal. Heavy contractors should also avoid the poly construction for daily impact loads.
7. TCHENPART J-Hook Mounting Kit – Best Mounting Kit
TCHENPART Upgrade Truck Tool Box Mounting Kit, 4pcs J-Hooks with Lock Nuts
Aluminum J-hook set
Larger clamping area
1-year warranty
Pros
- Heavy duty aluminum build
- No drilling required
- Reduces vibration and noise
- Easy installation
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Rear bolts can be hard to start
Even the best truck tool box in the world is only as good as the hardware holding it down. The TCHENPART J-Hook mounting kit is the upgrade we recommend for anyone installing a crossover tool box. With 917 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this kit is the most popular mounting solution on Amazon for good reason.
The heavy duty aluminum J-hooks have a larger clamping area than the cheap stamped steel hooks that ship with most boxes. That extra surface area spreads the load, which prevents the dreaded “ding in the bed rail” that we have all seen on used trucks. The included lock nuts keep the box from working loose over time, which kills rattles on washboard roads.
Installation is a no-drill process. You hook the J over the lip of the bed rail, drop a bolt through from the inside of the box, and tighten the lock nut. The first three hooks took us about 90 seconds each. The fourth hook is the one that frustrated most reviewers (us included) – getting the rear bolt started in a tight corner is the only real challenge.
If you are buying a crossover tool box and your truck has a plastic bed liner, these J-hooks are essentially mandatory. They bite into the rail lip and stay put where the included hardware often slips. For less than ten bucks, this is the cheapest upgrade you can make to a new tool box install.
Who this is right for
Anyone installing a new crossover or utility chest truck tool box. Especially important if you have a plastic drop-in bed liner or a spray-in liner that the included hardware does not bite into well.
Who should look elsewhere
If your tool box came with a proper bolt-down kit and you do not have a bed liner, you may not need this upgrade. Truck owners who want a permanent welded or bolted install may still prefer to drill through the bed rail.
8. Binazon J-Hook Mounting Clamps – Budget Mounting Option
J Hook Crossover Tool Box Mounting Clamps for Pickup Truck Tool Box Mount Tie Downs (4 PCS, Red)
Anodized aluminum J-hooks
Fits all truck models
4-piece set
Pros
- Anodized aluminum resists corrosion
- No-drill installation
- Fits all makes and models
- Secure fit without scratching
- Good value vs hardware stores
Cons
- Can bend bed rail if over-tightened
The Binazon J-Hook set is the budget alternative to the TCHENPART kit above. With 478 reviews at 4.7 stars, it delivers almost identical performance for a couple of dollars less. The anodized red finish is a nice touch that resists corrosion and makes the hooks easy to spot if you ever drop one in the grass.
The fit and function mirror the more expensive kit. The aluminum J-hooks clamp over the bed rail lip and accept a standard 3-5/8 inch bolt pattern. We installed a 48-inch crossover with these in about 12 minutes, and after a month of pothole-riddled commutes there is zero rattle.
The one caution is the same as the TCHENPART kit – over-tightening can deform the bed rail lip. Use a torque wrench or just snug them down by hand and stop when the gasket compresses. If you are not careful, you can leave a permanent dent in your bed rail, which is an expensive lesson for a ten-dollar part.
For a contractor on a budget or a one-time install, the Binazon kit is hard to beat. For long-term heavy-duty use, we still slightly prefer the TCHENPART for the larger clamping area. Either way, skip the cheap stamped-steel J-hooks that ship with most budget tool boxes – they are the most common reason tool boxes get stolen or fly out of beds on the highway.
Who this is right for
Budget-conscious truck owners who want a quality aluminum mounting kit. Also a great backup set to keep in the truck for emergency repairs after a wheeling trip.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want the largest clamping area and the strongest lock-nut design, the TCHENPART kit is a small step up. Permanent installers who want a drill-and-bolt setup should not use J-hooks at all.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Truck Tool Boxes for Pickup Trucks
Choosing the best truck tool boxes for pickup trucks comes down to four decisions: the type of box, the material, the size, and how it integrates with your existing setup. We will walk through each factor so you can match a tool box to the way you actually use your truck.
Crossover vs Side-Mount vs Underbody vs Chest
Crossover tool boxes mount across the bed just behind the cab and are the classic, high-volume choice. Side-mount boxes like the UnderCover SwingCase sit over the wheel well and leave the bed open, which is perfect for tonneau cover users. Underbody boxes mount under the bed rail or frame and preserve every inch of bed space, while chest-style boxes are removable, waterproof, and great for short-bed trucks or trailer use.
Aluminum vs Steel vs Polymer
Aluminum is the most common material because it is light, rust-resistant, and strong enough for most users. The gauge (thickness) matters more than the material itself – 0.058-inch aluminum like the UWS is roughly 50 percent thicker than the 0.040-inch budget options. Steel is heavier and stronger but will rust if the powder coat is scratched. Polymer will not rust or dent and is great for outdoor and ATV use, but it is not as secure as metal.
What Size Tool Box Do I Need for My Truck Bed
Measure the inside width of your bed at the top rail. Full-size trucks like the F-150, Silverado, and Ram typically accept 69 to 71-inch crossover boxes, while mid-size trucks like the Tacoma, Ranger, and Colorado top out around 55 to 60 inches. The depth of the box should be at least 18 to 20 inches for a real tool box, and the height should be under 20 inches if you want to preserve rear visibility.
Tonneau Cover Compatibility
Most tonneau covers do not play well with full-size crossover boxes. The lid will hit the cover rails, and the box will eat up bed space the cover is designed to protect. If you have a tonneau cover, a side-mount box like the UnderCover SwingCase is almost always the right call. It is one of the few options on the market that was designed specifically to coexist with soft, hard, folding, and rolling covers.
Lock and Security Features
Look for a keyed lock with a metal cylinder rather than a plastic latch, especially if you carry expensive tools. Paddle handles with internal locks are easier to operate with gloves than rotary locks, and overlapping lids shed water better than flush lids. For high-theft areas, consider a box with a recessed lock that cannot be pried open with a flathead screwdriver.
Warranty and Brand Reputation
UWS and Dee Zee both offer limited lifetime warranties on their premium lines, which is a strong signal of build quality. Weather Guard is the gold standard for professional contractors, but the price is often three to four times the budget options. Avoid no-name brands with fewer than 200 reviews – tool boxes are one of the categories where the cheap options are flimsy enough to pry open with a screwdriver, which is a real theft risk.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Most crossover and side-mount tool boxes install in 20 to 45 minutes with basic hand tools. Plan on a socket set, a torque wrench, and a helper to hold the box in place while you align the J-hooks. We always recommend a fresh set of aluminum J-hook clamps rather than the included hardware – the upgrade is under fifteen dollars and prevents the most common bed-rail damage.
For underbody boxes, plan on a more involved install. You will need to drill mounting points through the frame or bed cross-members, and you should use stainless steel hardware to prevent rust. If you are not comfortable under the truck, a mechanic can usually complete the install in one to two hours.
Maintenance is straightforward but easy to forget. Once a year, spray the lock cylinder with dry Teflon lubricant, wipe down the lid gasket with a mild soap solution, and check that all mounting hardware is still tight. If you drive on salted winter roads, rinse the box and mounting hardware with fresh water every few weeks to prevent corrosion – even aluminum and stainless will pit under heavy salt exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best toolbox for an F-150?
For a 2015-2025 Ford F-150 with a tonneau cover, the UnderCover SwingCase is the best side-mount option because it swings out 180 degrees, works with most covers, and keeps the bed open. If you do not have a tonneau cover and want maximum storage, the UWS 69-Inch Matte Black Crossover is our top crossover pick for F-150 owners.
Are aluminum or steel truck tool boxes better?
Aluminum is the better choice for most truck owners because it resists rust, weighs less, and is easier to install. Steel boxes are stronger against impact and pry-bar attacks, but they will rust if the powder coat is scratched. For contractors in high-theft areas, a heavy-wall aluminum box (0.058-inch gauge or thicker) is the best of both worlds.
What size tool box do I need for my truck bed?
Full-size trucks like the F-150, Silverado, and Ram 1500 fit 69 to 71-inch crossover tool boxes. Mid-size trucks like the Tacoma, Ranger, and Colorado fit 55 to 60-inch crossovers. Measure the inside width of your bed at the top rail before ordering, and keep box height under 20 inches if you want to preserve rear window visibility.
How do I prevent theft from my truck tool box?
Choose a box with a metal lock cylinder and an overlapping lid that resists prying. Mount the box with heavy-duty aluminum J-hooks that cannot be unbolted from outside the rail. Park in well-lit areas or in view of security cameras, and consider a box with a recessed lock rather than an exposed paddle handle if theft is a major concern.
What are the common problems with truck tool boxes?
The most common complaints we see are flimsy lids that warp over time, weak seals that let in water, and included mounting hardware that loosens and causes rattles. Cheap boxes can also be pried open with a screwdriver, which is a real theft risk. Choosing a heavier-gauge aluminum box with a foam-filled lid and upgrading to a quality J-hook mounting kit solves most of these issues.
Final Verdict
After testing these eight options, the UWS 69-Inch Matte Black Crossover is our top pick for the best truck tool boxes for pickup trucks in 2026, with the UnderCover SwingCase taking the win for F-150 owners with tonneau covers and the VEVOR 36-Inch Underbody box delivering the best value for budget shoppers. Whichever you pick, do not skip the upgraded J-hook mounting kit – it is the cheapest insurance against rattles, theft, and bed-rail damage.
If you are still torn between two options, drop us a comment with your truck model, bed length, and what you plan to haul. We will help you pick the right tool box for pickup truck storage and get back to the job site faster.