Yes, you can use a tonneau cover on a truck with a tool box. There are tonneau covers specifically designed to be compatible with tool boxes, allowing you to cover the open portion of your truck bed while still being able to access and use your toolbox.
These toolbox-compatible tonneau covers offer a durable and secure covering without obstructing the use of your toolbox. They are engineered to fit behind most over-the-rail toolboxes, providing additional protected storage under the tonneau cover and unobstructed entry to your existing tool box.
This allows you to maximize the utility of your truck while keeping your tools and other gear protected.
What are the benefits of using a tonneau cover with a toolbox?
Added Protection and Security
Using a tonneau cover in addition to your toolbox provides increased protection and security for your truck bed. The tonneau cover shields the rest of your cargo area that isn’t covered by the toolbox, keeping your belongings out of sight and safe from weather, debris, and potential theft. With both a toolbox and tonneau cover, you can confidently store gear and valuables in your truck bed knowing they are protected.
Increased Storage Capacity
Even with a large toolbox taking up part of the bed, adding a tonneau cover creates usable covered storage space behind and around the toolbox. You gain the enclosed storage capacity of a tonneau cover without losing the ability to access your toolbox.
This gives you the best of both worlds – a secure place to keep tools and supplies in the box while also having covered room for hauling larger cargo that won’t fit inside the toolbox.
Enhanced Truck Bed Protection
Using a tonneau cover along with a toolbox protects more of your truck bed from damage. The tonneau shields the open bed from scratches, dents, rust and fading that can occur from exposure to weather and debris. Keeping your bed covered increases the life of your truck while maintaining better resale value down the road.
Improved Fuel Economy
With a tonneau cover installed behind your toolbox, you create an enclosed bed space that improves aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. Reducing drag and turbulence in your truck bed allows for better MPG and savings at the pump. The sleek, low profile shape of a tonneau cover optimizes gas mileage, even on trucks with a toolbox.
What types of tonneau covers work with toolboxes?
Roll-Up Tonneau Covers
Roll-up tonneau covers are a popular choice for trucks with toolboxes because of their versatile design. The roll-up cover attaches at the top of the bed rails with a rounded vinyl cover that rolls up toward the cab for easy toolbox access. Models with segmented panel construction contour nicely behind most toolboxes while still covering the rest of the bed.
Retractable Tonneau Covers
Retractable tonneaus integrate rails along the bed sides that allow the vinyl cover to slide back and forth for access to the bed and toolbox. The smooth, low-profile vinyl material rolls up or retracts into a canister at the front or rear of the bed behind the cab. This leaves the toolbox and whole bed accessible as needed.
Folding Tonneau Covers
Folding covers are made of panels that pivot along hinges to fold against the cab or bed sides. The panels create an uninterrupted cover surface when closed, then fold up in sections for toolbox and bed access. The panels are constructed of aluminum or reinforced polymer for durability.
Snap Tonneau Covers
For a rigid, hardcover tonneau solution, snap covers provide an affordable option. Made from aluminum or a tough polymer, snap covers utilize a frame that attaches with clamps and snaps securely into place. The rigid panels lock together to shield the bed, then separate for full access.
What features should you look for in a toolbox-compatible tonneau?
Durable, Waterproof Materials
Look for covers made of heavy-duty vinyl, aluminum or reinforced polymer that can withstand any weather and heavy use. Ensure the cover material is rated as fully waterproof to keep your cargo protected in all conditions.
Secure Locking System
Choose a tonneau that latches and locks firmly into place for safety and security. Many use slam-action tailgate locks with keyed entries accessed behind the cab. Some have sophisticated remote operated systems for convenient locking and unlocking.
Sleek, Low-Profile Design
The tonneau should have a smooth, contoured shape that sits close to the bed for improved aerodynamics. Lower profile covers enhance MPG so your truck isn’t dragging excess bulk.
Bed Rail Attachment System
Make sure the rails, clamps and snaps are designed for durable attachment along your truck’s bed sides. The system should provide full coverage while accommodating most over-the-rail toolbox designs.
Warranty Coverage
Look for a manufacturer-backed warranty that guarantees the tonneau cover against defects, rips, corrosion and loss of function. Good options range from 3 years to a lifetime warranty.
How do you install a tonneau cover on a truck with a toolbox?
Measure Carefully
- First, measure the dimensions of your truck bed and toolbox to find a tonneau sized correctly. Measure the width between the bed rails and length from the back of the cab to the inside of the tailgate.
- Note the placement of the toolbox and height to determine required clearance under the tonneau.
Modify Bed Rail Caps if Needed
- In some cases, you may need to notch or trim the plastic bed rail caps behind the toolbox to accommodate the tonneau mounting clamps. Use a jigsaw to cut clearance holes if required.
Attach Mounting System
- With proper clearance confirmed, attach the tonneau rails, snaps or clamps along the bed sides. Ensure no toolbox parts obstruct the mounts. Adjust position as needed.
Unroll, Unfold or Retract Cover
- For roll-up covers, carefully unroll the vinyl cover from front to back. For folding and retractable covers, extend the panels along the mounting rails.
Secure and Lock Cover
- Press the cover into place on the body snaps or rails until it is fully closed. Engage any tailgate locks and secure as needed with padlocks for safety and security.
Test Toolbox Access
- Verify you can easily open the toolbox with the tonneau installed. Make any final position adjustments if needed for smooth operation. Enjoy the extra protection for your truck!
What are some of the best tonneau covers to use with a toolbox?
Here are some top-rated tonneau covers compatible with most truck toolboxes:
- Retractable Option: Roll-N-Lock LG220M Lo-Profile Tonneau – sleek vinyl cover retracts into rear canister for full bed access.
- Folding Option: BakFlip G2 Folding Tonneau – durable aluminum panels fold up against the cab for easy accessibility.
- Roll-up Option: TruXedo Sentry CT – low-profile vinyl cover rolls up toward cab when toolbox access needed.
- Hard Tonneau Option: UnderCover Flex – affordable polymer panels flex for access then lock for security.
- Premium Retractable: Roll-N-Lock M-Series Tonneau – higher-end retractable with smooth operation and upgraded materials.
- Best Value Retractable: MaxMate Roll Up Tonneau – budget-friendly vinyl cover with clever slide rail design.
Can any tonneau be used with a toolbox?
While many tonneaus are designed to accommodate toolboxes, not every cover may work. Tonneaus that attach inside the bed rails or sit flush within the bed floor likely won’t have enough clearance.
Very low profile or submerged covers also obstruct access. To work with a toolbox, focus on covers that mount on the outside bed railed and utilize durable but flexible materials that can contour behind the box. Carefully check product specs and measurements to ensure compatibility. Test fitting is recommended whenever possible.
Conclusion
Using both a tonneau cover and a toolbox in your truck bed is a great way to maximize storage potential. The right tonneau provides covered protection for the rest of your bed while seamlessly integrating with your existing toolbox.
Investing in a toolbox-compatible tonneau cover allows you to reap the benefits of both upgrades for enhanced utility, protection and style.
Just be sure to measure carefully and install properly for safe, unobstructed access to your toolbox. With the right combo, you can get the most out of your truck bed while keeping your cargo secure.