Truck Bed Covers – Gear Hands

Trucks give owners the freedom to travel where they will, but that freedom may come with a cost. Leaving a truck unattended, you run the risk of theft, or the elements may wreak havoc on your cargo or truck bed. Often, those who work in their truck have valuable tools that they need to protect, so truck toolbox and tonneau cover combos are the best solutions to both of these problems. Truck toolboxes with tonneau covers protect the truck bed and provide a secure space for your valuable tools. Tonneau covers decrease coefficient drag, and you may integrate them with an existing toolbox for a sleek profile. Tonneau/toolbox combos also offer the protection of weatherproofing. Tonneau covers with an integrated toolbox enhance your security while traveling and protect your truck and belongings from the elements. If you already have a mounted toolbox, you may still find a suitable tonneau to integrate with the box, or you may decide to purchase a combination of the two. If you are considering the investment of a tonneau, read on for our top 9 picks for 2021. What Is a Tonneau Cover? Originally the term 'tonneau' referred to a compartment in the rear open passenger area of early cars, shaped like a barrel to protect the passengers. The word is French and refers to a 'cask' or a 'barrel' due to the early rounded shape. The modern automotive definition of a tonneau cover is a hard or soft cover that fits the back of a truck to protect the load or improve a vehicle's aerodynamics. While the original tonneaus used to protect passengers in convertible and roadster with an open back, modern versions function to protect pickup trucks' cargo beds. Tonneaus can be of the hard variety that opens via hinges or the soft rolling or folding options. They also protect truck beds from the elements as well as potential thieves, preventing water damage and keeping your tools safe while you’re away. What Are the Advantages of a Tonneau Cover? Truck tonneaus offer several advantages to truck owners, and they have a number of materials and operations that suit the lifestyles and preferences of individual truck owners. Tonneau covers can retract, tilt, fold or roll to protect your truck bed. They will typically provide latches or clamps that truck owners may secure with a locking system for even more added security. They also offer an element of sophistication to the otherwise rugged-looking truck bed. If you are considering a tonneau cover for your truck, here are some of the benefits you may expect from your investment: Storage Benefits A tonneau cover transforms your truck bed area into a secure storage area for workloads and everyday items that you may struggle to fit in your truck cab. Lightweight items such as groceries are usually not secure in an open truck bed, and you might find that things spill when traveling at high speeds. Instead of cramping yourself or your passengers with groceries and sundries, the cover provides a secure area for your everyday items. Added Security Truck owners often use their vehicles for work as well as everyday driving. An open truck bed is a magnet for thieves, who may easily reach your expensive toolbox or work equipment, such as drills or air compressors. Most tonneaus offer a secure locking system that protects expensive items from prying eyes and prevents would-be thieves from accessing your possessions. Protection From the Elements Tonneau covers offer protection from the elements not only for your cargo but for your truck bed itself. Wind, snow, rain, and UV damage can considerably shorten your truck bed's lifespan and increase the likelihood of corrosion and wear. Quality tonneau covers not only protect your cargo and truck from damage but offer drainage channels and weather seals to keep rainwater off your cargo. We're an affiliateWe hope you love the products we recommend! Just so you know, we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Thank you if you use our links, we really appreciate it! Improved Aerodynamics and Fuel Economy Although tonneau's role in fuel economy is a hot debate topic, research by the Speciality Equipment Market Association shows that tonneaus do, in fact, provide a modest reduction in fuel consumption. The test showed that all of the tonneaus tested improved the coefficient drag for each truck. The results showed that tonneaus could improve drag by 6.5% or more. Less drag on the vehicle directly translates to an increased fuel economy, saving on gas! Can You Place a Tonneau if You Already Have a Mounted Toolbox? If you have already mounted a toolbox in your truck bed, there are still toolbox tonneau covers compatible with pickup bed toolboxes. These tonneau covers come in a variety of styles and materials to provide easy access to your toolbox. Certain manufacturers such as UWS specialize in under-tonneau toolboxes with a low profile and offset lid for practicality and access to your tools. Under Cover or Tonneau/Toolbox Combo? When you buy standard toolboxes and tonneau covers as separate units, it is common to find water leaks into the truck bed. The area where the two units meet is particularly prone to water leakage. High-grade tonneau/toolbox combos not only provide weathertight designs, but also ensure that the standard toolbox design does not block the driver's rearview. Tonneau/toolbox combos offer a low profile design that eliminates rearward view issues and improves your truck's visual profile. Standard toolboxes tend to sit high, and their blocky design and potential mismatch with your chosen tonneau may hurt your truck's appearance. Types of Tonneau Covers for Toolboxes There are generally two types of tonneau covers for toolboxes: hard and soft. However, within each category, there are other sub-categories. Let’s talk about a few of them! Hard Tonneau Covers Hard tonneau covers are thicker and do not flex or move in the wind. Hardcovers offer more security for cargo, as well as elemental hazards such as falling debris, snow, or branch damage. Good quality tonneaus covers may support up to 250 (113.3kgs) lbs of weight or more. You may find hard tonneaus in the following styles. Hard Folding Tonneaus Hard folding tonneaus are secure and have solid panels that fold into three sections that may be stacked behind your toolbox when fully opened. When closed, the hard fold tonneau is sturdy and can support up to 250 lbs (113 kgs) of weight or more. The solid panel design does lend itself to integrated toolboxes but provides secure protection for low profile undercover toolboxes. Hard Retractable Tonneaus Hard retractable tonneaus consist of aluminum slats placed in sequence, with a low profile toolbox that sits above the rail level. The hinged slats typically roll into a canister mounted under the toolbox. These covers are highly rugged and may support 400 lbs (181 kgs) when closed. Although this kind of cover sacrifices space for the canister, which you could use for storage, it has the added benefit of enhanced security for your possessions. Soft Tonneau Covers Soft Roll-Up Tonneaus Soft roll-up tonneaus suit those who need regular access to their truck beds and open at the rear of the truck. These covers roll open like a sleeping bag, and you may secure it at any position along with its length. When closed, the soft roll, users may secure the cover to the bed rails with snaps, Velcro, or tongue-in-groove seals. Soft roll-ups are typically made of a vinyl layer with an aluminum framework for support and integrate well with existing toolboxes. Soft Folding Tonneaus Soft fold tonneaus generally feature a layer of soft and flexible vinyl stretched over three or four aluminum framework sections. The folding tonneau works on a system of folding hinges that lie flat when closed into an unbroken sheet and fold up in a stacked position behind your toolbox. Soft folding covers offer the advantage of being lighter weight and suit larger toolboxes that extend further into the truck bed. Soft Hinged Tonneaus Soft hinged tonneaus typically consist of a one-piece aluminum base that does not fold, roll or retract. This cover uses hinges located behind the toolbox and uses gas-assisted struts for easy opening and closing. The advantage of soft hinged tonneaus is their lighter weight and clearance area for larger toolboxes. However, the soft hinged style may limit access to the front of your truck bed. Low Profile vs. Standard Profile Tonneaus Standard tonneaus sit above the bed rails and create a raised effect around the edges of the cover. The tonneau is typically raised 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) higher than your truck's bed rails and has the advantage of offering more storage in the truck bed. However, the standard profile cover's appearance is not as sleek and streamlined as the low profile covers. If you seek a low-profile tonneau, you will typically be limited to the hard retracting designed covers. Manufacturers usually equip these style tonneaus with low profile toolboxes that suit firmly above your truck bed rails. Low profile tonneaus offer a sleek visual appearance and enhanced aerodynamics. 9 Top Picks for Truck Toolboxes With Tonneau Covers (2021) Extang Solid Fold 2.0 Toolbox Hard Tonneau Extang is an established name in tonneau manufacture and introduced many truck bed cover styles evident today. They have been in operation since 1982 and have a reputation for quality products, maximum strength warranties, and excellent customer support. The Extang Solid Fold 2.0 Toolbox Tonneau offers the best weather and UV protection while providing easy access to truck bed cargo. It suits most full bed trucks with a bed length of 6 1/2' and 8' and suitable for most 18’’- 20" (45 cm x 50 cm) standard toolboxes. The unit comes with a mountain rail that allows easy installation while still providing a watertight seal around the toolbox. The cover consists of heavy-duty EnduraShield skins with a dent and UV resistant polypropylene core that is durable while remaining lightweight. The Extang Engineered clamps hold the cover firmly in place and grip tightly to your truck bed for added security. extang Solid Fold 2.0 Toolbox Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | 84430 | Fits 2009 - 2018, 2019 - 2020 Classic Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 6' 4" Bed (76.3") Fits 2009 - 2018, 2019/20 Classic Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 6' 4" Bed...ULTRA-TOUGH PANELS | Solid Fold 2.0 is a hard folding truck bed cover...ARRIVES FULLY ASSEMBLED | The whole cover comes completely put...ENHANCED SECURITY | Not only does this hard folding truck bed cover...EXTANG ENGINEERED | Engineering is at the heart of why we have the... Check price Last update on 2022-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Features Dimensions: 6.5 x 77 x 35 inches (16.1 cm x 195.5 cm x 88.9 cm) (Fits 6' 4" Bed)Weight: 45 lbs (20.4 kg)Automotive-grade polymer 1-inch panels that provide scratch, dent, and UV resistanceMatte black finish powder coat for corrosion resistanceAluminum hinges and frame for extra durabilityPatented L channel with adjustable sealing for rain drainageIt fits most standard 18-20" toolboxesTri-fold toolbox with T handle clamp for easy opening and closingThe kit arrives fully assembled TruXedo TonneauMate Toolbox Truxedo continues to be one of the top-selling tonneau manufacturers since its inception in 2000. Their TonneauMate is a universal toolbox that fits most full-size trucks and offers elevated mounting for full truck bed use while mounting the cover above. The unique design elevates the toolbox off the truck bed floor, freeing up the area beneath it for extra storage. The toolbox mounting is versatile and flexible and allows users to mount the toolbox for the front, middle or rear placement. The toolbox mounting is compatible with most standard tonneau covers, and the units are compatible with Deuce, Le Pro, and many more. Depending on your vehicle, you might need an additional clamp or hardware kit to install, which you may check here. Sale TruXedo TL - TonneauMate | 1117416 | TonneauMate Toolbox - Fits Most Full Size Trucks, except Flareside, Stepside or Composite Beds EXPANDED STORAGE | This versatile storage box can be used as a mounted...STRONG & SECURE | The durable construction of this storage box allows...EASY CLAMP INSTALLATION | This truck bed box is compatible with most...WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED | TonneauMate is backed by a 2-year, no hassle...A few truck beds require an additional clamp kit to install: 08-13... Check price Last update on 2022-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Features Made from heavy-duty materials Side-mounted for truck bed clarenceFlexible mounting positionEasy no-drill installationLockable storageCompatible with most standard tonneau coversDimensions: 55 x 23 x 15 inches (139 cm x 58 cm x 38 cm)Weight: 54 pounds (24.5 kg) The durable construction and lockable storage offer extra security for your valuable tools. Bak Industries BakBox 2 Tonneau Cover Toolbox BAK Industries have built a name for their truck bed tonneaus and accessories since 1998. This BakBox offering is a high-quality toolbox made to work with a tonneau cover. The box itself does not come with a lid but uses your chosen tonneau as a protective covering. The BakBox is sturdy enough to withstand 200 lbs (90 kg) and is made from heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant panels, offering impact resistance. The BakBox is versatile and can be detached from the truck bed easier to work on site. The nifty sliding tool tray allows you to access smaller items easily. The box is watertight and can even double as an ice cooler for drinks in the warmer months. The clamp-on installation is easy and drill-free for quick placement or release. Sale Bak Industries 92401 BAKBox 2 Tonneau Toolbox , Black Folds away for full bed accessIncludes sliding tray for small itemsBox dimensions: 10" X 10" X bed widthSturdy no-drill clamp-on installationSolid core 1/2" thick FRP composite panels Check price Last update on 2022-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Features Dimensions: 1 x 65 x 8 inches (2.5 x 165 x 20 cm)Weight: 2 lbs (900 g)Solid core 1/2" thick FRP composite panelsWorks in conjunction with Bakflip Tonneau coverIt folds up against the bulkhead when not in useMade from impact-resistant, non-corrosive panelsEquipped with sliding tool tray for smaller itemsThe toolbox doubles as a cooler chest or shelvingYour tonneau acts as the toolbox lidWithstands 200 lbs (90 kg) weightEasy no-drill clamp-on installation Truck Covers USA American Work Cover Retractable Tonneau Toolbox Combo Truck Covers USA was founded in San Diego in 2002 and has provided quality truck covers and innovative design for almost twenty years. This toolbox/tonneau combo offering from Truck Covers USA offers a heavy-duty galvanized sheet metal toolbox with a durable retractable tonneau. The housing is rust-resistant, durable, and offers sectioned compartments to organize your tools. The truck bed cover is retractable with molded rubber basket flange housing to resist water and dust. The compact design fits most work truck models and comes with a wear-resistant paddle locking for extra protection for your tools. You may unlock the toolbox from either side with the same key as the cover, and the toolbox comes with trays offering a non-skid base. The toolbox is integrated with the tonneau and has a watertight seal at the bulkhead and handles for easy access. The cover retracts through a spring system in the canister using an easy-to-reach pull strap. Users may open the cover with a key without opening the tailgate or with a latch found under the open tailgate. Truck Covers USA CRT204 Tonneau Cover Tool Box Check price Last update on 2022-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Features Model No: 10070Suited to work trucksIncludes tonneau and integrated toolboxSealed at bulkhead Textured construction and molded rubber flangesWater dust, rust, and wear resultantGalvanized aluminum toolbox coverRetractable tonneau of high-grade materialsManual operationWatertight toolboxOEM grade locking mechanismsThe lock provides an override if users lock the outside paddle Access 64179 Toolbox Roll-Up Tonneau Cover Agri Cover introduced the Access roll-up cover, which was the first tonneau of its kind in 1991. They are setting industry standards with their superior quality truck tonneau covers. The Access original cover fits most 19-21" (48-53 cm) over the rail toolboxes. The increased capacity tonneau pairs with your toolbox and delivers easy access to your tools without having to open the cover. So, the cover operates independently of your toolbox and does not interfere with loading and unloading cargo. The lightweight yet heavy-duty cover offers extreme heat and cold resistance and performs well in all climates. The durable cover protects your truck bed contents from damage and theft while still providing access to your toolbox. Access 64179 Toolbox Roll-Up Tonneau Cover Provides protection to the vehicles bedStretch and shrink resistantVery compact and easy to storeFeatures auto-latch for easy opening and closing of the doorFacilitates easy installation- No drilling required Check price Last update on 2022-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Features Withstand extreme heat and coldCompatible with most 19-21 inch (48.26-53.34 cm) toolboxesEasy access to your toolbox without having to open the coverAuto latch for easy opening and closingStretch and shrink resistant materialsProtects your truck bedLightweight and durableEasy no-drill installation Extang Express Toolbox Tonno Roll-Up Bed Cover The Extang express toolbox tonneau roll-up is the ultimate offering in easy access to truck owners who need access to their truck beds. The roll-up bed cover fits most standard 20" (50 cm) toolboxes and delivers protection and superior performance. The Express Tonno is the easiest roll-up style tonno in the industry, and its design provides a secure and fuss-free installation in a matter of minutes. The high-quality and durable material offers enhanced water resistance and protects your truck bed and cargo from the elements while increasing the aerodynamics of your truck. The cover provides a patented L design and adjustable sealing system to bridge the toolbox to the tonneau gap where the most common leaks occur. Extang designed the bed cover to be self-adjusting so that the tarp is kept snug and sleek in all conditions. Heavy-duty bows may be rolled up quickly within the cover for easy storage in one simple step. Extang Express Tool Box Soft Roll-up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | 60630 | Fits 82-11 Ford Ranger 6' Bed (72") Easily Bridges The Toolbox To Tonneau GapL-Channel design also provides for rain drainageFits Most Standard 20 in. Tool BoxesInstant Truck Bed Protection With Top-Notch Looks And PerformanceMost Convenient And Easy To Roll Up Style Check price Last update on 2022-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Features It fits standard 20" (50.8 cm) toolboxesConvenient and quick roll up and storageAdjusts tension automatically for a sleek profile and protectionQuick-release levers at cab and tail rails for instant removalAll-weather tarp to protect from UV and water damageInstalled in minutesL shaped channels and adjustable sealing systemThe specialized sealing system bridges the gap between the tonneau and toolboxHeavy-duty pre-positioned bows for a quick roll-up Extang Trifecta Toolbox 2.0 Soft Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover The Extang offers a soft folding 2.0 option with an enhanced design for a sleek profile and superb durability. The tonneau suits full-size trucks with 6 1/2' and 8' bed lengths and matches most 18-20" (45-50 cm) standard toolboxes. The soft fold is easy to place on your truck by a clamp system and provides fuss-free installation with no drills or assembly. The Extang engineered clamps attach directly to your bed flanges without damage to your bed caps. The clamps are also one of the strongest in the industry and offer enhanced stability and durability. The patented easy opening mechanism makes the clamps easier to open for quick access to your tools or cargo. The heavy-duty cover is leather grained for smooth lines and lends elegance to your truck while delivering protection from the elements. The Toolbox 2.0 also offers an integrated corner tuck design that improves the tonneau tension and improves its profile. extang Trifecta Toolbox 2.0 Soft Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | 93480 | Fits 2015 - 2020 Ford F-150 6' 7" Bed (78.9") Fits 2015 - 2020 Ford F-150 6' 7" Bed (78.9")KEEP IT SIMPLE | Easy to install & easy to operate. Two EZ-Lock clamps...DURABLE TARP COVER | Trifecta 2.0 is constructed with a leather-grain...FASTEST INSTALL | This soft-folding cover comes fully assembled....EXTANG ENGINEERED | Engineering is at the heart of why we have the... Check price Last update on 2022-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Features Heavy-duty leather grained coverPatented L channel for drainage and an adjustable sealing system to bridge the gap between the tonneau and toolboxTri-fold toolbox with T handle clamp for easy removalPatented hinges that are ultra-rugged with double privet made of glass-filled nylon with protected paddingJaw grip front clamps directly to your flanges 3-minute installation3-year warranty STOWE CARGO SYSTEMS Toolbox and Tonneau Cover Cargo Management Founded in 2008 by automotive engineer Paul Chapman, the Michigan-based Stowe Cargo Systems has built a reputation in custom-designed storage solutions for trucks. This innovative two-in-one system offers a cover and toolbox that one can easily remove to haul cargo. The toolbox consists of a tough composite that is dent, moisture-resistant, and so well-sealed that it can double as an ice chest or cooler. The Stowe box offers ample space, an impressive 400 lbs (181 kgs) load capacity, and provides a stainless steel push lock that one may access without lifting the tonneau. The low profile design that falls flush with the cover offers a sleek profile without affecting the driver's rearview. The tonneau cover boasts a high-strength composite sandwich panel with a durable cast aluminum frame for support. The cover offers superior protection for your cargo and tools and protects the truck bed from the elements such as rain or UV damage. The unit bolts onto your truck with rubber isolators to protect your truck's finish. Features Toolbox dimensions: 17" x 17" x 59" long (43 cm x 43 cm x 149 cm)Toolbox load capacity: 400 lbs (181 kgs)Toolbox clearance from truck bed floor: 4.5" to 5" (11-12 cm) depending on truck typeCast aluminum frame with composite sandwich panel tonneauHigh strength steel six-bar linkagesBolt-on installation with rubber isolatorsWeight: 52 lbs (23.5 kgs)Powder-coated cover mounting railsWeathertight perimeter sealsOne may remove the tonneau cover easily to make space for cargoUV resistant tonneau coatingThree-year limited warranty UWS Secure Lock 48in Under Tonneau Chest Tool Box The UWS under Tonneau chest toolbox is a sturdy offering made to fit perfectly under your existing tonneau. The 16-1/2" (41.91 cm) high profile with offset lid is compatible with most tonneau covers and offers maximum lid strength with patented RigidCore technology. The thick aluminum construction provides superior strength, and the secure lock handles offer dual twist locking from either side of the box. The box offers an easily accessible lid filled with solid foam to increase structural stability and decrease binding. UWS EC20501 Secure Lock 48-Inch Heavy-Wall Aluminum Under Tonneau Cover Tool Box, RigidCore Lid TONNEAU-COMPATIBLE. This under tonneau cover tool box measures 16-1/2...RIGIDCORE LID. This under tonneau tool box is built for maximum lid...EXTRA-THICK ALUMINUM. UWS aluminum truck tool boxes for under tonneau...SECURE LOCK HANDLES. This under tonneau cover tool box is equipped...EASY TO INSTALL. UWS pickup truck tool boxes are available in several... Check price Last update on 2022-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Features 16-½" profile compatible with most tonneau coversRigidCore foam lid 0.058" (1.47 mm) thick aluminum constructionConnecting rod allows two-sided operationMicroseal gasket to prevent dust and moistureDual locking twist handlesLid self opens to 90° (dependent on tonneau cover) The unit comes with a limited lifetime warranty Conclusion Tonneaus are versatile and can adapt to a wide variety of toolboxes. If you research well, you are sure to find an exact fit for your truck bed. Ensure that your purchase is correct for your truck make, model, and year to ensure your truck bed is adequately protected. Tonneaus not only make your truck look sleek, but they may also even save you money over time. Tonneaus offers truck owners peace of mind regarding their tools and possessions, which one can't place a price tag on. Sources Wikipedia: TonneauSEMA: Speciality Equipment Market AssociationAgricover: How Tonneau Covers Affect The Coefficient of DragUWS: Under Tonneau Cover ToolboxesExtang: About UsTruXedo: AboutStowe Cargo: About Us