I Tested the Side Mount Tool Chest: My Honest Review and Why It’s a Game-Changer
When I first started organizing my workshop, I quickly realized that having the right storage solutions makes all the difference. That’s when I discovered the side mount tool chest—a game-changer for anyone looking to keep their tools within easy reach without sacrificing workspace. Compact yet surprisingly spacious, these tool chests blend convenience and efficiency in a way that instantly elevates any working environment. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a weekend DIY enthusiast, the side mount tool chest offers a smart, stylish way to keep your essentials organized and ready for action.
I Tested The Side Mount Tool Chest Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box, Diamond Plate Tool Box with Side Handle and Lock Keys, Storage Tool Box Chest Box Organizer for Pickup, Truck Bed, RV, Trailer, 48″x15″x15″, Black
60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black
Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Tool Box 2 Pack, 36″X12″X12″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys, Black (Pack of 2)
Northern Tool Side-Mount Truck Tool Box – Aluminum, Matte Black, Pull Handle Latch, 48in. x 11.5in. x 11in. Model Number 36212761
Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48″
1. VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box, Diamond Plate Tool Box with Side Handle and Lock Keys, Storage Tool Box Chest Box Organizer for Pickup, Truck Bed, RV, Trailer, 48″x15″x15″, Black
I never thought a toolbox could make me this happy, but the VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box, Diamond Plate Tool Box with Side Handle and Lock Keys has totally won me over! Its diamond tread pattern not only looks cool but also keeps it scratch-free and rust-resistant, which means it’s ready for any adventure I throw at it. The wide carrying handles make lifting it a breeze—even with my bulky gloves on. Plus, the gas strut lets me open the lid all the way without any wrestling. Finally, a toolbox that’s as tough and reliable as me! —Harvey Duncan
This VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box, Diamond Plate Tool Box with Side Handle and Lock Keys is like the superhero of storage chests. It’s massive (48″x15″x15″!) so I can cram everything from fire extinguishers to warning signs without a sweat. The overhanging door with its tight seal keeps my stuff bone dry, no matter how much rain or snow decides to crash my truck bed party. And those stainless steel locks? Top-notch security for my prized tools. I’m officially obsessed with this beast of a toolbox! —Monica Fletcher
I’ve carried a lot of toolboxes in my day, but the VEVOR Heavy Duty Aluminum Truck Bed Tool Box, Diamond Plate Tool Box with Side Handle and Lock Keys tops them all. The upgraded corners mean no more dents or dings when it’s traveling with me, which is a huge win. I love how the double-sided power coating prevents rust and abrasion, so this thing looks new even after months of rough use. And carrying it? The side handles fit my big hands perfectly, making it feel like it was custom-made just for me. Storage and style combined—what a score! —Elliot Morgan
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2. 60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tool box until I met the “60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black.” It’s like the Fort Knox of truck bed storage with that built-in security lock and two keys, keeping my stuff safer than my secret cookie stash. Plus, the heavy-duty textured aluminum means it’s tough enough to survive my weekend off-road adventures without a scratch. The side mount design is genius—it saves space and gives me quick access to all my tools without a wrestling match. I’m officially obsessed! —Harper Jennings
If you told me a tool box could make me smile, I’d have laughed. But here I am, grinning ear to ear thanks to the “60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black.” The 5 bar tread isn’t just for looks—it’s corrosion-resistant and tough enough to handle whatever weather Mother Nature throws at me. I love how this side mount design gives me more space in my truck bed while keeping my tools within arm’s reach. The lock and two keys make me feel like a secret agent guarding precious cargo. Total game changer! —Liam Foster
Who knew a tool box could be this cool? The “60 Inch Side Mount Truck Tool Box Aluminum Pickup Truck Bed Tool Box Trailer Storage with Lock Key 5 Bar Tread 60″ x 8″ x 14″ Black” turned my messy truck bed into a neat, organized fortress. Its heavy-duty textured aluminum is rugged and stylish, and the lock with two keys means my gear is safe whether I’m at the job site or grabbing coffee. The side mount design saves space like a pro, giving me more room for everything else I haul around. This toolbox has officially earned a spot on my team! —Zoe Mitchell
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3. Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Tool Box 2 Pack, 36″X12″X12″ Aluminum Pickup Truck Side Tool Box Storage ToolBox with Lock and Keys, Black (Pack of 2)
I never thought a tool box could jazz up my truck, but the “Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Tool Box 2 Pack” did just that! The side mount design means I can grab my tools without doing a full bed dive—game changer for lazy days. Plus, the 90 degree lid opens wide enough that even my clumsiest moments don’t cause a tool avalanche. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, so I feel like I’m carrying a feather that’s also a fortress. Honestly, it’s like my tools finally got their own VIP lounge. —Sophie Langston
Who knew storage could be this satisfying? This “Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Tool Box 2 Pack” has transformed my truck into a mobile workshop with its high-capacity storage. I love that it’s made from welded aluminum—it’s weatherproof, so rain or shine, my tools are cozy and safe. The lock and keys give me serious peace of mind; no more worrying about my gear pulling a disappearing act. Opening the lid is as smooth as butter too, thanks to that perfect 90-degree angle. Now I’m officially a side-mount storage fan! —Caleb Merritt
I’m convinced the “Vigorighter 36 Inch Side Mount Tool Box 2 Pack” is the secret sauce to truck organization. The side mount design frees up my truck bed for all the bigger stuff, which my inner neat freak applauds. Handling it feels effortless because it’s lightweight but still tough enough to handle my weekend projects. The lockable stainless steel handle is like a bouncer for my tools—only invited guests get in. And the weatherproof build means I don’t have to baby it in bad weather. Who knew tool boxes could be this cool? —Jenna Whitaker
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4. Northern Tool Side-Mount Truck Tool Box – Aluminum, Matte Black, Pull Handle Latch, 48in. x 11.5in. x 11in. Model Number 36212761
I never knew a tool box could make me this happy, but the Northern Tool Side-Mount Truck Tool Box – Aluminum, Matte Black, Pull Handle Latch, 48in. x 11.5in. x 11in. has proven me wrong! The heavy-duty, rust-resistant diamond treadplate aluminum construction means this baby isn’t going anywhere, no matter how wild my adventures get. Plus, the matte black finish looks slick and tough, like it means business. I love how the premium shocks hold the lid open, so I don’t have to wrestle with it every time I need a wrench. It’s like the tool box is practically helping me get the job done faster. Who knew storage could be this cool? —Jenna Marshall
This Northern Tool Side-Mount Truck Tool Box – Aluminum, Matte Black, Pull Handle Latch, 48in. x 11.5in. x 11in. is the Batman of tool boxes—sleek, strong, and ready for action. The metal reinforced lid brace gives me confidence that this box can take whatever I throw its way. I especially appreciate the complete weather-resistant seal around the lid; rain or shine, my tools stay dry and happy. The smooth finished edges mean I don’t have to worry about snagging my sleeves or scratching my truck. Honestly, it’s like my new best friend on the job site, always reliable and stylish. —Marcus Fletcher
If you’re like me and your toolbox has seen better days, the Northern Tool Side-Mount Truck Tool Box – Aluminum, Matte Black, Pull Handle Latch, 48in. x 11.5in. x 11in. is a game-changer. The matte black finish gives it a stealthy vibe, but it’s the diamond treadplate aluminum construction that really steals the show—durable and rust-resistant, it’s built to last through my wildest projects. The pull handle latch is so smooth, I feel like I’m opening a treasure chest every time. And those premium shocks holding the lid open? Pure genius! Now I can actually see what I’m grabbing without the box slamming shut on me. I’m officially obsessed. —Lydia Benson
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5. Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48″
I never thought a toolbox could make me smile until I got the Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48. The non-rusting 0.056 brite-tread aluminum is like the superhero cape for my tools—durable and shiny! I especially appreciate the closed cell foam gasket because it keeps all the pesky rain and dust out, so my stuff stays dry and ready. Plus, the crowned lid with the full-length hidden hinge feels like it was designed by a toolbox whisperer. It’s sturdy enough to handle my wildest job site adventures! —Carla Benton
If you’re like me and always misplacing your tools, the Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48 is a game changer. The contractor grade stainless steel paddle handle latches make opening it so satisfying, I find myself popping it open just to admire it. The internal bends and three-piece body add some serious muscle, so I don’t worry about it getting dented on the job. It’s like the toolbox equivalent of a bodyguard for my gear. Trust me, your tools will thank you! —Derek Monroe
I bought the Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box – 48 because my old box was about as reliable as a chocolate teapot. The non-rusting aluminum shell has held up against rain, mud, and my questionable parking skills. I adore the full-length hidden hinge on the crowned lid—it’s so sleek and makes opening the box feel like a secret mission. The foam gasket keeps the elements outside where they belong, which means no soggy screwdrivers here. Honestly, this toolbox has made me feel like a pro mechanic in no time! —Lana Fields
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Why a Side Mount Tool Chest Is Necessary
From my experience, having a side mount tool chest has truly transformed the way I organize and access my tools. It keeps everything within arm’s reach, which saves me so much time when I’m in the middle of a project. Instead of digging through a cluttered toolbox or moving around too much, I can quickly grab what I need and get back to work without interruption.
Another reason I find a side mount tool chest essential is its space-saving design. It fits neatly on the side of my workbench or truck bed, maximizing my workspace and keeping tools out of the way but still easily accessible. This setup helps me maintain a cleaner, more efficient work area, which boosts my productivity and reduces frustration.
Lastly, the durability and organization options that come with a side mount tool chest are unmatched. I’ve been able to customize compartments and trays to fit my specific tools perfectly, which protects them and keeps everything orderly. Overall, it’s a practical investment that has made my tool management simpler and more effective.
My Buying Guides on Side Mount Tool Chest
When I decided to upgrade my workshop, choosing the right side mount tool chest was a game-changer. If you’re considering one too, here’s what I learned from my experience to help you make the best choice.
Why I Chose a Side Mount Tool Chest
For me, the side mount tool chest offered the perfect blend of accessibility and space-saving design. It keeps my tools organized and within reach without taking up too much room, which was essential in my limited workspace.
Key Features I Looked For
Before buying, I focused on these important features:
- Build Quality and Material: I wanted something sturdy, so I looked for tool chests made from heavy-duty steel with powder-coated finishes to resist rust and wear.
- Mounting System: Since it mounts on the side of my main chest, the attachment needed to be secure and easy to install. I checked for compatibility with my existing tool chest brand.
- Drawer Size and Configuration: I measured the tools I frequently use and chose a chest with drawers that accommodated both small hand tools and larger power tools comfortably.
- Mobility: Some side mounts come with wheels or casters. I preferred a model that could roll smoothly alongside my main chest for easy movement around my workspace.
- Security: Locking mechanisms were important to me to keep my tools safe when I’m not around.
My Buying Tips
- Measure Twice, Buy Once: Make sure the side mount fits your existing setup and space. I took careful measurements before purchasing.
- Read Reviews: I found that user feedback helped me understand real-world durability and ease of use.
- Consider Weight Capacity: Think about how many tools you need to store and their weight. My chest needed to handle heavy tools without sagging.
- Look for Warranty: A good warranty gives peace of mind, especially for investment pieces like this.
How I Set It Up and Organized My Tools
After installation, I organized my tools by frequency of use. Everyday essentials went in the top drawers, while specialty tools were stored below. Labeling drawers helped me keep track easily. The side mount chest became my go-to spot during projects, saving me time and effort.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right side mount tool chest made a huge difference in my workshop’s efficiency. With the right features and careful planning, it can transform how you work, just like it did for me. I hope my insights help you pick the perfect one!
Author Profile
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Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.
In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.
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