7 Best Tool Boxes for Under Tonneau Cover (2026), Low Profile Truck Bed Storage Picks

If you run a tonneau cover on your pickup, you already know the pain. Most standard tool boxes either sit too tall, block bed space, or force you to remove the cover completely. Tools slide around, small gear gets buried, and locking everything safely becomes a daily headache. That’s exactly why under-tonneau compatible tool boxes exist — low profile, wheel-well mounted, or crossover designs that work with your cover instead of fighting it.

We tested and compared real truck-fit options that actually clear hard and soft tonneau covers, don’t eat up cargo space, and stay secure on rough roads. This list focuses on low-profile height, proper bed fitment, waterproof sealing, locking strength, and daily usability, not just marketing specs.

If you want quick picks before diving in, these three stand out right now:

• Best Overall Fit and Convenience: UnderCover SwingCase SC104D – Perfect for Silverado and Sierra owners who want fast side access without losing bed space.
• Best Heavy Duty Low Profile Crossover: Northern Tool Slim Low Profile Aluminum Tool Box – Ideal for work trucks that need strong metal construction while staying tonneau friendly.
• Best Budget Wheel Well Storage: Dee Zee DZ95P Poly Tool Box – Lightweight, weather resistant, and easy to install without drilling.

Below you’ll find the 7 best tool boxes for under tonneau cover setups that real truck owners actually use — whether you drive a Silverado, Sierra, Ram 1500, HD truck, or full-size pickup with limited bed clearance.

7 Best Truck Tool Boxes for Under Tonneau Covers in 2026

#1. UnderCover SwingCase SC104D
Best Overall Tool Box for Under Tonneau Cover (Silverado Sierra 1500)

#2. RealTruck UnderCover SwingCase SC105P
Best Under Tonneau Tool Box for Heavy Duty Trucks (2500 3500HD)

#3. VEVOR Wheel Well Truck Bed Storage Box
Best Budget Tool Box for Under Tonneau Cover (Ram 1500)

#4. Dee Zee DZ95P Wheel Well Tool Box
Best Compact Side Storage Tool Box for Under Tonneau Setup

#5. Garvee 30 Inch Steel Truck Bed Tool Box
Best Heavy Duty Low Profile Tool Box for Under Tonneau Cover

#6. Northern Tool Slim Low Profile Crossover Tool Box
Best Slim Crossover Tool Box for Under Tonneau Clearance

#7. JOYTUTUS 160 Quart Truck Bed Tool Box
Best Large Waterproof Cargo Box for Under Tonneau Storage

#1. UnderCover SwingCase Truck Bed Storage Box (SC104D, Driver Side)

We tested this box specifically for trucks running tonneau covers, and this is one of the few designs that actually respects bed space. The SwingCase sits tight against the wheel well and keeps roughly 3 inches of clearance from the bed rail, which means most soft, hard, folding, and rolling tonneau covers close without interference. If you hate tall cross-bed boxes that kill cargo room, this layout makes a lot of sense.

What we really like is the swing-out design. Instead of climbing into the bed, you simply pull the latch and the box swings out almost 180 degrees toward the tailgate. You grab tools, close it, and it locks back over the wheel well. For daily work trucks or weekend haulers, this saves time and keeps the main bed area wide open for larger loads.

Installation is another strong point. You do not need special tools or drilling. Most users finish the setup in around 20 minutes. The internal tray helps organize smaller tools, and the built-in moisture seal actually works in light rain and dusty driving conditions. It is not a deep waterproof vault, but for real-world use it keeps gear clean and protected.

What Customers Are Saying After Buying It

Most owners highlight how fast the installation is and how naturally it fits under tonneau covers. Many Silverado and Sierra drivers mention that it clears Truxedo and similar soft roll-up covers without trouble. Storage capacity also gets praise, with users saying it holds more tools than expected for its size.

Some buyers point out that fitment can vary slightly depending on model year, especially newer Silverado generations, so checking compatibility before ordering is smart. A few users also mention the lock can feel stiff in certain positions, but overall satisfaction remains high because of the convenience factor.

Pro Tip: If you run a soft roll-up tonneau cover, roll it back a few inches before fully swinging the box out. This gives you maximum opening clearance and prevents the lid edge from rubbing the cover seal over time.

#2. RealTruck UnderCover SwingCase Truck Bed Storage Box (SC105P, Passenger Side)

This SwingCase version is built for heavy-duty Silverado and Sierra owners who run tonneau covers but still want quick side access storage. The 3 inch bed rail clearance is the main reason it works so well with soft roll-up, folding hard covers, and even full hard tonneau systems. You do not need to remove your bed cover just to grab tools, which is exactly what most HD truck owners want on work sites.

The swing-out mechanism is the real highlight here. Pull the latch and the box rotates out toward the tailgate, giving you full access without climbing into the bed. Once done, it swings back and locks directly over the wheel well. This keeps the main cargo floor clear for lumber, equipment, or towing gear. We especially like how it uses space that normally goes wasted.

Installation is straightforward and does not require drilling or special tools. Most users finish the install in under half an hour. Inside, the storage tray helps separate small tools from heavier gear, while the moisture seal keeps dust and light rain from getting inside. For daily-use trucks, this setup feels practical instead of bulky.

What Customers Are Saying After Buying It

Many buyers praise how fast the installation is and how smoothly the box swings in and out. HD truck owners often mention that it fits nicely under tonneau covers and does not interfere with bed operation. The space efficiency also gets positive feedback, especially from contractors who want organized side storage.

Some users report long-term durability concerns, mainly related to hinge components and lid alignment over time. A few also mention fit issues on certain 2020 GMC models, so double-checking your exact truck configuration before ordering is important. Despite this, most owners still like the overall design and convenience.

Pro Tip: If you plan to carry heavier tools regularly, keep the weight balanced and avoid slamming the swing mechanism. Smooth opening and closing extends hinge life and keeps the lid alignment tight over long-term use.

#3. VEVOR Truck Bed Storage Box (Wheel Well, Dodge Ram 1500 Passenger Side)

This VEVOR wheel well box is clearly built for Ram 1500 owners who want under-tonneau storage without spending premium brand money. The 3 inch clearance keeps it compatible with most soft roll-up and folding tonneau covers, and the compact shape fits tight against the bed wall so your main cargo space stays usable. If your bed feels messy with loose straps, hitches, or small tools, this box cleans things up fast.

What stands out is the swing-out access. You pull the latch and the box pivots outward nearly 180 degrees, letting you grab gear directly from the tailgate area. When you are done, it folds back over the wheel well and locks into place. This design works especially well for daily drivers who want quick access without climbing inside the bed.

The ABS composite body feels lightweight but surprisingly rigid for its price range. It handles dust, light rain, and sun exposure better than most budget boxes. Inside, the compartments make it easy to separate gloves, tie-down straps, emergency tools, and small accessories. Installation is simple, using the included mounting eyelets and hardware, and most buyers finish it within minutes.

What Customers Are Saying After Buying It

Many Ram 1500 owners mention that the fit is accurate for 2019 to 2021 models and that it works smoothly under soft tonneau covers. Installation speed is one of the biggest positives, with most users reporting a quick 5 to 15 minute setup. Buyers also like the value for money, especially compared to higher-priced branded alternatives.

Some customers report that the latch can feel inconsistent and that the mounting brackets may flex slightly when heavily loaded. A few also mention minor compatibility issues with certain bed liners. Even with these points, most users still recommend it as a practical and affordable under-tonneau storage solution.

Pro Tip: If you run a spray-in or thick drop-in bed liner, test-fit the box before final tightening. Slight bracket adjustment during install helps keep the lid aligned and prevents latch issues over time.

#4. Dee Zee DZ95P Specialty Series Poly Plastic Wheel Well Tool Box

Dee Zee DZ95P is built for truck owners who want simple side storage without sacrificing bed space. It sits cleanly behind the wheel well, keeping the center bed area open for cargo like tool bags, camping gear, tie-down straps, or work equipment. This layout works well when you want organization but do not want bulky cross-bed boxes.

The reversible lid design is one of the strong points here. You can set it up on the driver side or passenger side depending on your truck layout and tonneau cover hardware. The full-length hinge gives smooth lid movement, no awkward bending, no uneven opening, just straight access when you need your gear.

For under-tonneau setups, many owners adjust the mounting position slightly to keep proper bed rail clearance. Once aligned properly, the box stays low profile and does not interfere with most tonneau covers. It becomes a permanent side storage zone that keeps small items off the bed floor and easy to reach.

What Customers Are Saying After Buying It

Buyers often mention how useful it is for organizing straps, jumper cables, gloves, and roadside tools. Many truck owners like how it keeps gear separated and stops items from sliding around during driving.

Long-term users also appreciate the simple design and easy installation process. The reversible mounting option gets positive feedback because it works with different truck setups and personal preferences.

Pro Tip: During installation, leave a small side gap near the bed wall (about finger width spacing). This improves tonneau cover clearance and allows the lid to open smoothly without rubbing against bed rails or cover seals.

#5. Garvee 30 Inch Black Steel Truck Bed Tool Box (Low Profile Storage Chest)

This one is our favorite when it comes to pure strength and daily abuse handling. Garvee built this box using thick 12 gauge steel, which makes it far tougher than most plastic or thin aluminum boxes. If your truck sees job sites, outdoor hauling, or heavy tool use, this construction gives long-term confidence. The powder-coated finish also helps resist scratches, surface rust, and sun fading.

The low-profile height works well for under-tonneau setups, especially in beds where vertical clearance is limited. With its compact width and clean rectangular shape, it fits nicely against the bed wall or near the front without blocking cargo space. The open-access lid design is practical for fast grab situations, whether you are pulling tools, straps, or cooler items during road trips.

One thing that stands out is the smooth lid operation. The built-in pneumatic strut lets the lid open wide and stay up without slamming shut. This makes loading and unloading safer and more comfortable, especially when using the box multiple times a day. The weather-sealed lip around the lid also helps keep rain, dust, and debris out during highway driving.

What Customers Are Saying After Buying It

Buyers often mention that the steel build feels solid and heavy-duty for the price. Many users like the size because it fits well in truck beds and trailers without feeling oversized. The smooth lid action and weather sealing also get positive feedback from people using it for tools and outdoor gear.

Owners also appreciate the overall value, saying it delivers strong build quality without paying premium brand prices. The compact design is commonly praised by drivers who need storage without losing tonneau cover clearance.

Pro Tip: If you plan to use this box under a tonneau cover, position it slightly closer to the cab side of the bed. This helps maintain better cover clearance and keeps the lid opening smooth while avoiding contact with the cover frame.

#6. Northern Tool Slim Low Profile Crossover Truck Tool Box (Aluminum, 69 Inch)

This one is built for drivers who want a clean crossover look without killing tonneau cover clearance. The slim 12 inch width and low 13 inch height make it easy to fit in most truck beds while keeping rear visibility open. If you want under-tonneau friendly sizing with a lightweight aluminum body, this model fits that purpose well.

The one-piece aluminum construction keeps the weight down, which makes installation easier and reduces stress on bed rails. The reinforced lid brace adds stability, and the gas strut allows smooth one-hand opening. The paddle latch system keeps the lid shut evenly across the box, giving quick access without fighting stiff handles.

Because of the compact interior size, this box works best for light tools, roadside gear, straps, and emergency equipment. It is more about space-saving and convenience than heavy-duty storage, which suits daily drivers and weekend trucks running tonneau covers.

What Customers Are Saying After Buying It

Owners like the low-profile design and slim width, saying it keeps the bed looking clean and professional. Many users also mention the lightweight feel and easy installation.

Buyers often choose it for light-duty storage and appreciate the overall value for the size and appearance.

Pro Tip: If you want the best tonneau clearance, mount this box slightly lower on the bed rails using adjustable brackets. This keeps the lid from touching folding or roll-up covers when closing.

#7. JOYTUTUS Lockable 160 Quart Truck Bed Tool Box (Waterproof Cargo Storage Case)

If you are looking for a large sealed storage box for outdoor gear and everyday truck use, this JOYTUTUS cargo case fits that role well. The wide body and deep internal space allow you to store helmets, recovery gear, tools, travel bags, and emergency supplies without stacking everything loosely in the bed. The design focuses more on protected storage than compact toolbox style.

The waterproof sealing is one of the main reasons buyers choose this model. The rubber gasket around the lid helps block dust and rain during highway driving and off-road trips. The fixed mounting brackets keep the box stable when driving on uneven roads or steep slopes, which is useful for camping and long-distance hauling.

Inside layout is practical with separate compartments and molle-style panels, allowing you to separate small accessories from larger items. This makes loading faster and keeps gear from shifting. For trucks running tonneau covers, the height clearance should be checked before installation, but the box works well in beds that have moderate vertical space.

What Customers Are Saying After Buying It

Many buyers mention the strong outer shell and good waterproof sealing performance, especially during rainy drives and outdoor trips. Users also like the large storage volume for travel gear and tools.

Owners often highlight the sturdy feel of the body and the usefulness of internal compartments for organized storage.

Pro Tip: Before final mounting, place the box in the bed and close your tonneau cover to check vertical clearance. Adjusting the bracket position slightly helps avoid contact with the cover frame and improves long-term fit stability.

Quick Comparison of the Best Truck Tool Boxes for Under Tonneau Cover

How to Choose the Best Tool Box for Under Tonneau Cover

Buying a tool box that actually works under a tonneau cover is not about picking the biggest box or the strongest lock. It is about clearance control, mounting geometry, access behavior, and long-term bed usability. Here is what experienced truck owners focus on.

1. Measure Functional Clearance, Not Advertised Height

Most people only check the toolbox height. That is a mistake. What matters is usable clearance after mounting brackets, bed rail lips, and cover frame thickness.

• Hard folding covers usually sit lower than soft roll-up systems
• Aluminum bed rails reduce usable vertical space
• Cross-bed tool boxes need extra clearance for lid swing arc

Pro approach: place a straight edge across your bed rails, measure down to the wheel well top, then subtract cover frame thickness. That number is your real working limit.

2. Choose Storage Layout Based on Access Pattern

Advanced users pick layout based on how often they open the box.

• Wheel well swing boxes work best for daily tool access, roadside gear, and service trucks
• Low profile crossover boxes are better for organized tool storage without blocking rear visibility
• Cargo case style boxes suit travel gear, camping setups, and long-haul storage

If you open the box more than 5 times per day, swing-out side access saves serious time.

3. Pay Attention to Lid Travel Path

Under-tonneau compatibility is not only about box height. It is also about how the lid opens.

• Top-hinged boxes need vertical swing clearance
• Swing-out designs avoid vertical interference
• Gas strut lids open wider but require rear clearance

Experienced buyers look at lid opening angle, not just dimensions. A box that fits closed can still hit the cover frame when opened.

4. Material Choice Should Match Use Style

Different materials behave differently under heat, vibration, and weight.

• Steel works best for heavy job-site tools and high vibration use
• Aluminum is ideal when weight reduction and corrosion resistance matter
• ABS composite suits outdoor travel gear and moisture resistance setups

Do not overbuy strength if you carry light gear. Extra weight reduces payload efficiency.

5. Lock System Matters More Than You Think

Advanced users avoid generic latch designs.

Look for:

• Dual-point locking or reinforced latch bars
• Weather-sealed lock housings
• Smooth single-hand operation

A toolbox that is annoying to open will eventually stop being used.

6. Mounting Stability Is a Hidden Deal Breaker

Under-tonneau tool boxes face constant vibration. Weak mounting creates noise, lid misalignment, and seal failure.

Check for:

• Steel mounting brackets
• Multi-point anchoring
• Anti-shift base support

Stable mounting keeps the lid aligned and the weather seal working long-term.

7. Plan for Future Bed Use

Think beyond current storage needs.

Ask yourself:

• Will I tow and need hitch gear storage
• Will I add bed racks later
• Will I carry motorcycles, ladders, or pallets

Low-profile and side-mounted boxes preserve future flexibility.

Final Selection Rule Used by Experienced Truck Owners

If the box clears your tonneau cover, opens without interference, stays stable on rough roads, and keeps the bed usable for cargo, then it is the right choice. Everything else is secondary.

Mistakes Experienced Buyers Avoid When Choosing Under Tonneau Tool Boxes

Most truck owners do not lose money because of bad brands. They lose money because they ignore how tonneau covers behave in real use. Here are the mistakes that experienced buyers actively avoid.

1. Ignoring Dynamic Clearance Movement

Static clearance means nothing. Tonneau covers flex while driving, especially soft roll-up and folding systems.

• Highway wind pressure pushes covers downward
• Bed rail vibration changes contact points
• Temperature expansion shifts rail alignment

Advanced buyers leave extra buffer clearance, not just “bare fit” measurements.

2. Buying Based on Storage Volume Alone

Large volume looks attractive but often ruins bed usability.

• Oversized boxes reduce forklift access
• Tall boxes block rear mirror visibility
• Wide boxes interfere with bed rail accessories

Smart buyers prioritize usable bed layout over raw storage capacity.

3. Overlooking Lid Load Behavior

Many tool boxes flex under lid pressure when loaded.

• Heavy tools push lid alignment off center
• Weak hinge systems cause uneven sealing
• Gas struts lose pressure under constant weight

Advanced users check reinforced lid frames and hinge placement, not marketing claims.

4. Assuming “Universal Fit” Claims

Universal fit usually means adjustable brackets, not perfect geometry.

• Wheel well shapes vary between brands
• Bed liner thickness changes mounting angles
• Rail profiles differ across trim levels

Serious buyers verify model-specific compatibility, not generic size claims.

5. Ignoring Lock Ergonomics

Security is not only about strength, it is about usability.

• Stiff locks discourage daily use
• Poor latch alignment causes mis-closing
• Low-quality cylinders jam in dusty environments

Experienced owners choose systems that operate smoothly with one hand.

6. Mounting Without Load Distribution Planning

Bolting a box directly to thin bed sheet metal creates long-term damage.

Advanced installers use:

• Reinforced bracket zones
• Bed rail structural points
• Even weight distribution across mounting surfaces

This prevents stress cracks and loosening over time.

7. Forgetting About Future Upgrades

Many buyers install boxes that block future accessories.

• Ladder racks
• Bed extenders
• Cargo tie rails
• Bike mounts

Smart buyers leave mounting clearance and modular space for future truck upgrades.

Final Advanced Rule

If the toolbox integrates with your tonneau cover, bed layout, daily access habits, and future accessory plans, then it is a correct investment. If it only “fits”, it is a temporary solution.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right tool box for under a tonneau cover is not about size or price, it is about how well the box fits into your daily truck workflow, bed layout, and cover system.

For most use cases, these picks cover the real-world needs:

• UnderCover SwingCase SC104D
  Best balance of side access, bed space preservation, and tonneau compatibility for Silverado and Sierra 1500 owners.
• Garvee 30 Inch Steel Truck Bed Tool Box
  Strong choice for job-site reliability, heavy tools, and long-term durability with a low-profile layout.
• VEVOR Wheel Well Truck Bed Storage Box
  Practical option for Ram 1500 owners who want under-tonneau storage without overspending.
• JOYTUTUS 160 Quart Truck Bed Tool Box
  Ideal for large-volume storage, outdoor gear, and travel-focused truck setups.
• Northern Tool Slim Low Profile Crossover Truck Tool Box
  Good fit for drivers who want crossover-style storage with minimal bed obstruction.

The right investment is the one that clears your tonneau cover during real driving conditions, stays stable on rough roads, and keeps your bed usable for hauling. When these three factors line up, the toolbox becomes part of your truck’s working system instead of just another accessory.

Choose based on clearance behavior, access pattern, and long-term usability, not marketing claims. That approach is what experienced truck owners follow to avoid replacements and get consistent value from their setup.

Also Check:

• Best Tonneau Covers for Chevy Colorado
• Best Tonneau Covers for Honda Ridgeline
• Best Tonneau Covers for GMC Sierra 1500
• Best Tonneau Cover for Chevy Silverado 1500