Flatbed Truck Tool Box Guide: Types, Sizes, and Tips
Tool Box Guide
A flatbed is a wide open deck. That is great for freight, but it leaves you with a problem. Where do the chains, straps, binders, and tools go?
If they ride loose on the deck, they slide, rust, and sometimes fall off. If they ride in the cab, they take up your space and make a mess. A flatbed truck tool box gives all of that gear a dry, locked home. This guide explains the main styles, what they are made of, and how to choose and mount one.
In This Guide
Why You Need One
Safety. Loose chains and tools on a deck can fly off on the road. In a box, they stay put.
Security. Tie down gear and tools are costly. A locked box keeps them from walking away.
Weather. Rain and road salt rust metal fast. A sealed box keeps gear dry.
Speed. When each item has a place, you find it right away.
A clean look. A tidy truck makes a good first impression at every dock and job site.
Main Styles
Underbody Boxes
This is the most popular style for flatbeds. The box mounts under the deck, between the cab and the rear wheels or behind the rear wheels. The door is on the side and usually drops down.
Why people like them: They use space that would be wasted and leave the whole deck open for freight.
Things to check: You need enough room under the deck and enough ground clearance so the box does not drag. See the 18 x 18 x 60-inch and 24 x 24 x 60-inch cam lock tool boxes.
Top Mount Boxes
These sit on top of the deck along the side rails. They are long and narrow, with doors that open outward.
Why people like them: You can reach in while standing next to the truck, with no bending.
Things to check: They take up a strip of deck space on each side.
Chest Boxes
A chest box sits on the deck, usually right behind the cab, with a lid that opens from the top. It is deep and holds a lot.
Why people like them: Big, simple storage for bulky gear like tarps and chains.
Things to check: You have to reach in from above, and it takes up deck length.
Headache Rack and Backpack Boxes
Some boxes are built into or mounted on the rack behind the cab. They stand upright and have doors or shelves for chains, binders, and straps.
Why people like them: Tall storage that uses very little deck space.
Things to check: They need a strong rack or frame to mount to. See the Cab Rack with Single Door Tool Box.
Trailer Tongue and A-Frame Boxes
On bumper pull trailers, a box can sit on the tongue at the front. On gooseneck trailers, boxes often go between the neck rails or under the deck.
Why people like them: Gear stays with the trailer, which is handy if you pull with more than one truck.
Steel or Aluminum?
| Aluminum | Steel | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Light, so it adds little weight to the truck | Very strong and hard to break into | Strong, and resists rust |
| Does not rust | Stands up to rough use | Keeps a polished look |
| Often has a bright diamond plate finish or a smooth black coating | Heavier than aluminum | Costs the most |
| Can dent more easily than steel | Needs a good coating to keep rust away | Â |
For most hotshot and flatbed owners, aluminum is the popular pick because it saves weight and never rusts. Steel is a good choice for rough job sites and for when security is the top concern.
How to Measure
Take these steps before you order.
- Find the spot. Decide where the box will go: under the deck, on top, or behind the cab.
- Measure the length. This is the room from front to back at that spot.
- Measure the height. For underbody boxes, measure from the bottom of the deck to the lowest point you can go and still clear the ground.
- Measure the depth. This is how far the box can reach in toward the frame.
- Check what is in the way. Look for fuel tanks, exhaust pipes, brake lines, wiring, and steps.
- Leave room for the door. Make sure the door can open all the way.
Write the numbers down and compare them to the size of the box, not just the listed model length.
Features to Look For
- Strong latches. T-handle latches that press the door tight are a good sign.
- Good locks. Look for keyed locks, and think about adding a padlock.
- Weather seal. A rubber gasket around the door keeps out water and dust.
- Door support. Cables, chains, or gas struts hold the door open and keep it from dropping on you.
- Thick metal. Thicker walls and doors are harder to bend and pry.
- Welded seams. Fully welded seams are stronger and keep water out better than spot welds.
- Mounting brackets. Some boxes come with brackets, and some need them bought on their own.
You can compare sizes and styles in the Safe & Tie toolboxes collection.
What to Store in It
A well-packed box holds most of your daily gear.
- Chains and binders
- Rolled straps
- Edge protectors and corner guards
- Tarp straps and bungee cords
- Winch bar
- Gloves, vest, and safety glasses
- Warning triangles and a fire extinguisher, if they are not mounted in the cab
- Basic hand tools
- Flags and banners for oversize loads
Put heavy items like chain on the bottom. Use bins or dividers to keep small things from sliding around. Many drivers keep chains in one box and straps in another.
Mounting Tips
Mount to the frame or a strong cross member. Thin sheet metal will not hold a full box.
Use the right hardware. Grade 8 bolts with lock nuts and large washers are a common choice.
Use brackets made for the box. They spread the load and stop cracking.
Keep it level. A level box closes and seals the way it should.
Stay clear of heat. Keep the box away from the exhaust.
Seal the bolt holes. A dab of sealant keeps water out.
Check the bolts. Look at them after the first few hundred miles and again from time to time.
If you are not sure about drilling into your truck or trailer, a truck body shop can mount it for you.
Care and Upkeep
- Oil the hinges and latches a few times a year.
- Wipe the rubber seal clean so it closes tight.
- Wash off road salt, especially in winter.
- Touch up chipped paint on steel boxes before rust starts.
- Empty and sweep the box now and then. Dirt and water at the bottom rust your gear.
- Do not overload it past what the mounts can carry.
Final Thoughts
The right flatbed truck tool box keeps your gear safe, dry, and easy to reach. Underbody boxes save deck space. Top mount and chest boxes give quick access and more room. Aluminum saves weight and steel adds strength. Measure with care, mount it to solid framing, and keep the latches and seals in good shape. Then fill it with quality gear from the Safe & Tie cargo control collection.
Give Your Gear a Home
Shop underbody tool boxes and cab racks with tool boxes at Safe & Tie.
Shop ToolboxesFrequently Asked Questions
What is the best style for a hotshot flatbed?
Underbody boxes are the most popular because they keep the deck clear. Many hotshot drivers add a chest box or rack box for tarps and chains.
Is aluminum strong enough?
Yes, for most uses. A well-built aluminum box with good latches holds up well and does not rust. Choose steel if you need the most strength.
How do I stop water from getting in?
Choose a box with a rubber door seal, keep the seal clean, mount the box level, and seal the bolt holes.
Can I mount it myself?
Many owners do, using brackets, bolts, and basic tools. If you are unsure about drilling into the frame, have a shop do it.
How much weight can it hold?
That depends on the box and how it is mounted. Check the maker's rating and do not go past it.