Truck Tool Boxes Under Tonneau Cover – For The Ultimate Protection

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 tool boxes under tonneau cover is the best choice!

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.

Truck_Toolboxes_With_Tonneau_Covers

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. 

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 tonneau 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 kg) 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.

8 Top Picks for Truck Toolboxes And Tonneau Covers Combos (2023)

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 is 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. 

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 resistance
  • Matte black finish powder coat for corrosion resistance
  • Aluminum hinges and frame for extra durability
  • Patented L channel with adjustable sealing for rain drainage
  • It fits most standard 18-20″ toolboxes
  • Tri-fold toolbox with T handle clamp for easy opening and closing
  • The 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.

Features

  • Made from heavy-duty materials 
  • Side-mounted for truck bed clarence
  • Flexible mounting position
  • Easy no-drill installation
  • Lockable storage
  • Compatible with most standard tonneau covers
  • Dimensions: 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. 

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 panels
  • Works in conjunction with Bakflip Tonneau cover
  • It folds up against the bulkhead when not in use
  • Made from impact-resistant, non-corrosive panels
  • Equipped with sliding tool tray for smaller items
  • The toolbox doubles as a cooler chest or shelving
  • Your tonneau acts as the toolbox lid
  • Withstands 200 lbs (90 kg) weight
  • Easy 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 designs 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, and 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 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. 

Features

  • Model No: 10070
  • Suited to work trucks
  • Includes tonneau and integrated toolbox
  • Sealed at bulkhead 
  • Textured construction and molded rubber flanges
  • Water dust, rust, and wear resultant
  • Galvanized aluminum toolbox cover
  • Retractable tonneau of high-grade materials
  • Manual operation
  • Watertight toolbox
  • OEM-grade locking mechanisms
  • The 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. 

Features

  • Withstand extreme heat and cold
  • Compatible with most 19-21 inch (48.26-53.34 cm) toolboxes
  • Easy access to your toolbox without having to open the cover
  • Auto latch for easy opening and closing
  • Stretch and shrink-resistant materials
  • Protects your truck bed
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Easy 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. 

Features

  • It fits standard 20″ (50.8 cm) toolboxes
  • Convenient and quick roll up and storage
  • Adjusts tension automatically for a sleek profile and protection
  • Quick-release levers at cab and tail rails for instant removal
  • All-weather tarp to protect from UV and water damage
  • Installed in minutes
  • L shaped channels and adjustable sealing system
  • The specialized sealing system bridges the gap between the tonneau and the toolbox
  • Heavy-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. 

Features

  • Heavy-duty leather grained cover
  • Patented L channel for drainage and an adjustable sealing system to bridge the gap between the tonneau and toolbox
  • Tri-fold toolbox with T handle clamp for easy removal
  • Patented hinges that are ultra-rugged with double privet made of glass-filled nylon with protected padding
  • The jaw grip front clamps directly to your flanges 
  • 3-minute installation
  • 3-year 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.

Features

  • 16-½” profile compatible with most tonneau covers
  • RigidCore foam lid 
  • 0.058″ (1.47 mm) thick aluminum construction
  • Connecting rod allows two-sided operation
  • Microseal gasket to prevent dust and moisture
  • Dual locking twist handles
  • Lid 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 to 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 offer truck owners peace of mind regarding their tools and possessions, which one can’t place a price tag on. 

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