While most pickup cargo beds are well suited to hauling lumber and gravel, they can present challenges when it comes to securing smaller cargo like fishing and hunting gear. Fortunately, there are numerous solutions for maximizing the storage in back. Lockable storage for tools inside the cargo bed not only provide safety and security for all kinds of gear, but they also free up room in the cab for increased passenger comfort.
The Rambox
The first RamBox, a lockable storage system in the cargo bed’s bedrails, debuted in 2009. Since its introduction, Ram has refined the feature, most recently added lighting in the box lids for loading up at night and a 115-volt power outlet. Drainage holes are perfect for fishing gear after a day at the lake.
Ram competitors responded with a steady flow of innovation in truck-bed design. Whether or not you own one of these capable pickups, the design of their cargo beds can inspire your aftermarket modifications.
The MultiPro tailgate on the 2019 GMC Sierra Denali can be configured six ways, including as a standing workstation. The midsize GMC Canyon comes with standard two-tier loading, enabling owners to split the cargo bed into upper and lower sections and conceal valuables such as tools.
2019 GMC Sierra Denali MultiPro tailgate features an inner gate with a standing work-surface configuration.
The midsize Honda Ridgeline features an in-bed truck with secure recessed storage in the floor of the cargo bed. Available cargo bed lights illuminate both the bed and in-bed trunk. The deck rail system on the midsize Toyota Tacoma includes tie-down cleats for securing cargo and is also compatible with Toyota accessories, including a cargo divider, mini tie-downs, and available 120-volt/400-watt power point.
Honda Ridgeline offers a secure recessed storage in the floor of the cargo bed.
Cargo-Bed Mods
The Decked in-bed truck drawer system
The aftermarket is loaded with creative cargo-bed storage units. One of the coolest is the Decked in-bed truck drawer system with models for Ram, Chevrolet Silverado, and Ford Super Duty. The system includes two weatherproof sliding drawers, each with a 200-pound capacity.
Thule’s Xsporter Pro in-bed cargo management system is height-adjustable and includes load stops for securing large items. Installation doesn’t require cutting or drilling. Wind-diffuser technology reduces noise and optimizes aerodynamics to maintain good fuel economy.
Weather Guard produces numerous aluminum cargo-bed storage boxes, including Lo-Slide boxes that mount in the bedrails. Mounting brackets do not require drilling into the rails.
The Du-Ha Humpster
The Du-Ha Humpster clamps over the truck’s wheel wells to add weatherproof storage in the cargo bed. The Humpster includes a built-in gun rack and is considered a legal gun case in most states.
Saddle boxes fit across the cargo box behind the cab, providing secure waterproof storage without taking up much space in the bed itself. Weather Guard produces a variety of models including extra-wide versions with 12-volt access.
