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Best Tool Box Tonneau Covers: 2024 Review and Buying Guide

As a landscaper and weekend DIY warrior, I rely heavily on my truck bed to transport all my tools, equipment, and materials. But living in the Pacific Northwest means dealing with plenty of rain, so I needed a tonneau cover that would keep my cargo protected.

After researching the top options, I selected 5 of the best tool box tonneau covers to test out. I evaluated them based on ease of installation, durability, protection from the elements, security, and overall functionality. Based on several weeks of hands-on testing, I’m sharing my experience to help you find the right tonneau cover for your truck and toolbox setup.

Comparison of the Top 5 Tool Box Tonneau Covers

ProductTypeMaterialNotable Features
Access 64109 Tool Box Edition Roll-Up Tonneau CoverRoll-upVinylDesigned for over-the-rail tool boxes, easy to use
Access 62199 Tool Box Edition Roll-Up Tonneau CoverRoll-upVinylMade for tool boxes, durable and easy to use
TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Tonneau CoverRoll-upVinylSleek and stylish, easy install and use
Tyger Auto T3 Soft Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau CoverTri-foldVinylDurable, versatile, low profile
Gator ETX Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau CoverRoll-upVinylAffordable, durable, daily use

Access 64109 Tool Box Edition Roll-Up Tonneau Cover – Best Overall Tool Box Tonneau Cover

The Access 64109 is purpose-built for over-the-rail tool boxes, making it the ideal choice if you want maximum compatibility and functionality.

I was impressed with how easy it was to install – it took less than 30 minutes to attach the rails and roll up the vinyl cover. The dual paddle latches allow for quick and easy access to my toolbox, and the tension control lets me adjust how easily the cover rolls up.

The low-gloss black vinyl material is durable and weather-resistant. Even after getting caught in a few rainstorms, my tools stayed bone dry. I also like the integrated rope guides which allow me to securely haul longer cargo.

For security, this tonneau cover comes with a lock and key to prevent unwanted access to my gear. The vinyl cover sits flush with the bed rails to minimize airflow and prevent dust or rain from entering.

Overall, the Access 64109 is engineered specifically for over-the-rail tool box use. I’d recommend it to anyone seeking the optimal blend of convenience, weather protection, and security.

Key Features

  • Designed for over-the-rail tool boxes
  • Dual paddle latches for easy access
  • Tension control for adjustable rolling
  • Weather-resistant black vinyl cover
  • Integrated rope guides
  • Locking capability

Pros

  • Easy and quick installation
  • Allows full access to toolbox
  • Keeps tools dry in bad weather
  • Lets me haul longer cargo securely
  • Vinyl cover is durable and flush fitting

Cons

  • Latches could be more heavy duty
  • Locking mechanism is relatively basic

Access 62199 Tool Box Edition Roll-Up Tonneau Cover – Runner Up

The Access 62199 Tool Box Edition Roll-Up Tonneau Cover is another solid option if you need a tonneau cover for your truck box setup.

Installation was straightforward – I had the dual aluminum rails mounted and cover rolled out in about 20 minutes using the included hardware.

This vinyl cover also does well protecting against the elements. I left some sandbags in the truck bed during a heavy downpour, and they stayed dry. The cover fabric feels thick and durable.

Access designed this tonneau cover to work specifically with over-the-rail boxes. The rails hug the contours of my box tightly to minimize gaps, and the front header seals against the box lid when closed.

Opening and closing the cover is quick with the grip-friendly paddle latches. I do wish the latch hardware was a bit more heavy-duty, though the dual latch system seems reliable. This model also lacks a locking mechanism.

Overall, the Access 62199 is a solid waterproof tonneau choice if you need a cover designed to fit over-the-rail tool boxes.

Key Features

  • Designed for over-the-rail tool boxes
  • Dual paddle latches for access
  • Black vinyl cover
  • Front header seals against box lid
  • Easy no-drill installation

Pros

  • Keeps cargo dry in bad weather
  • Installation is quick and simple
  • Vinyl cover feels durable
  • Latches allow for easy access

Cons

  • No locking capability
  • Latch hardware could be sturdier

TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – Best Stylish Tool Box Cover

The TruXedo TruXport brings sleek good looks to your truck. The low-profile design integrates nicely with my tool box setup.

Installing this roll-up tonneau cover took about 30 minutes. The rails mount easily with the included clamps – no need to drill.

I like the leather-grain matte black vinyl material. It complements my truck’s exterior trim well. The dual paddle latches allow easy access, and the auto-latching system is convenient when I’m loading or unloading frequently.

This cover provides ample weather protection thanks to the thick vinyl fabric and weather-tight seals. It kept my toolbox contents protected during heavy rain. One downside is the lack of a locking mechanism.

For aesthetics and hassle-free use, the TruXedo TruXport is one of the best looking tool box tonneau covers I tested.

Key Features

  • Low-profile matte black vinyl
  • No-drill installation with clamps
  • Dual paddle latches for access
  • Automatic latching system
  • Weather-tight seals

Pros

  • Sleek and stylish appearance
  • Easy install with no drilling
  • Convenient auto-latch system
  • Provides good weather protection
  • Allows for full toolbox access

Cons

  • No locking capability
  • Vinyl prone to scratches

Tyger Auto T3 Soft Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – Most Versatile Tonneau Cover

The Tyger Auto T3 was the most versatile tool box tonneau cover I tested. The tri-fold design allows for partial or full bed access.

Installation took about 40 minutes – a little more involved than a roll-up but still simple enough. The aluminum rails mount with no-drill clamps.

This tonneau covers stands out for its use of thick, dual-coated marine-grade vinyl. It’s durable enough for work sites but stylish for personal use too. The tinted side rails are barely noticeable when the cover is closed.

Accessing my toolbox is easy by folding up just the front section of the cover. The gas struts make opening and closing the entire cover smooth and easy. To keep things locked up, this Tyger Auto model comes with a lock and key.

For versatility with style, the Tyger Auto T3 is one of the top tool box tonneau choices available.

Key Features

  • Tri-fold design for partial/full access
  • Dual-coated marine-grade vinyl
  • Low-profile rails and tinted windows
  • Locking capability included
  • Easy no-drill installation

Pros

  • Allows partial or full access to bed
  • Vinyl cover is thick and durable
  • Installs with no drilling required
  • Gas struts make opening easy
  • Stylish matte black fabric

Cons

  • More expensive than roll-up models
  • Not designed specifically for tool boxes

Gator ETX Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – Best Budget Pick

For truck owners on a tight budget, the Gator ETX is one of the most affordable tool box tonneau covers available.

It shares a similar design as the other roll-up models with a front header, rear canister, and dual aluminum rails. Installation took me about 20 minutes – pretty quick and straightforward.

While this vinyl cover isn’t quite as thick or premium-feeling as the others, it still seems durable and weather-resistant. The lighter fabric makes opening and closing a bit easier.

I like that the release handles are grippy and easy to use. The velcro attachments also help keep the cover tight and minimize flapping at highway speeds. For the price, you can’t beat the value offered by this Gator cover.

Just don’t expect the same level of security or locking capability as the higher-priced options. But if your main need is protecting your cargo from the rain, the Gator ETX fits the bill nicely.

Key Features

  • Budget-friendly price
  • Low-profile roll-up design
  • Dual aluminum side rails
  • Velcro attachments to reduce wind flap
  • Easy no-drill installation

Pros

  • Most affordable model tested
  • Straightforward and quick installation
  • Vinyl cover keeps cargo dry
  • Grippy release handles
  • Lightweight cover is easy to use

Cons

  • Not as thick or premium as pricier covers
  • No locking mechanism
  • Limited tension adjustment

FAQs about Tool Box Tonneau Covers

Do I need a special tonneau cover for my tool box?

You don’t necessarily need a special “tool box tonneau cover,” but it helps to choose one designed to work with your specific truck bed and box setup. The right cover will fit tightly around the contours of your box for optimal weather protection. Tool box-ready covers usually have front headers that seal against the rear of your toolbox.

Should I get a roll-up or tri-fold cover?

This depends on your needs. Roll-up covers are typically easier to install, use, and remove. Tri-fold covers allow for more versatile partial or full bed access. Roll-up models are usually more affordable.

How weatherproof are tool box tonneau covers?

Premium vinyl covers from reputable brands offer excellent water and dust protection. Ensure you install the rails tightly and seals properly for optimal weatherproofing. Hard folding covers provide even more protection.

Will a tonneau cover work with my bed liner?

Most tonneau covers are compatible with bed liners. You want to make sure the cover rails have enough clearance between the liner and bed walls. Some minor trimming of the liner might be required.

How do I lock my tool box tonneau cover?

Some covers come with built-in locks and keys. For added security, you can purchase and install aftermarket locks designed to work with your specific tonneau cover model. Always lock your tailgate as well.

What accessories should I consider for my new tonneau cover?

Helpful add-ons include sealants/protectants to keep the vinyl cover looking new, cargo nets to secure loose items, and under-rail lighting for visibility inside your bed at night.

Final Thoughts

Adding one of the best tool box tonneau covers is a great way to protect your cargo, tools, and equipment while enhancing the look of your truck. I recommend the Access 64109 for its optimal compatibility with over-the-rail tool boxes.

But all of the covers tested proved to be durable, weather-resistant and easy to use. Just be sure to measure your truck and toolbox setup prior to purchasing. And take the time to properly install the rails and seals for maximum weather protection. Your gear and tools will stay dry and secure for years to come!

Meghan Drummond
Meghan Drummond

Meghan has owned trucks for over 20 years and installed her first tonneau cover back in 2005. She has tested over 50 different tonneau cover models hands-on. Meghan has a journalism degree from the University of Florida and previously worked as an auto writer.

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