Propickup Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/150744
Optimizing storage space with side-mounted tool/cargo boxes lets you have everything you need on the jobsite organized and accessible BED STORAGE: MISC.TOOL BOXES By Steve Campbell & Bruce W. Smith F or those professional contractors who need full access to their pickup beds for materials or tools, side-mounted boxes that sit atop the bedrail, or storage systems that go around and over the wheel wells, offer great lockable alternatives to the typical cross-bed toolbox. Pickup bed space is at a premium for professionals. Tools, material and other equipment all have to make it to the jobsite, and if they're well organized and easily accessible, any task can be performed more efficiently. Added lockable storage can also provide greater security for valuable tools, equipment and parts. While many pickup pros have equipped their trucks cross-bed toolboxes, that design takes up valuable bed space and offers limited storage for longer objects. It's also a pain to get to anything that's fallen to the bottom or ends up in the middle of the toolbox. That's where today's wide array of alternative toolboxes comes into play. For example, high-side boxes that are mounted atop the bedrails provide shop-like storage. They range in size from 48 to 96 inches, and in some models, are 24 inches high and 20 inches deep. This rail-top side-storage option allows full access to a 4- by 8-foot bed while dramatically increasing cargo carrying capacity of smaller tools and parts. Perfec Bedsi Then there're the cargo management systems designed to fit below the rails, which allows the use of tonneau covers and bed caps or toppers. Some wheelwell cargo boxes (also called pork chop boxes due to their shape) are equipped with pullout shelves with bins for smaller fasteners, fittings and tools. A WIDE VARIETY Today's boxes are constructed of steel, aluminum or plastic and may be painted or powder-coated for both weather protection and appearance. That leaves a lot of choices. Aluminum units may be either constructed of smooth sheets or diamond tread, and both steel and aluminum boxes are generally equipped with stainless-steel hinges and latches. That's very important if you live/work in climate conditions that promote rust. It's also important to consider the grade of aluminum used to build the boxes. If you want maximum life and retain looks, then Marine-grade aluminum is an excellent choice. It's the best for withstanding constant exposure to the outdoors, calcium chloride/salt and coastal environments. So when you buy, look closely 20 PROPICKUP Big Book 2013 ProPickup_2013BB_Bed Storage Misc.indd 20 8/6/13 9:37 AM