So, you’ve got your truck and your tools but no place to store them, you’re looking for a box, but you wonder what materials are on offer, you know the benefits and features of aluminum, but you wonder if you can get a truck toolbox made of this material.
Aluminum is the most popular material for truck bed tool boxes. This substance is recognized for being lightweight, cost, long-lasting, and non-corrosive. Some boxes are constructed of steel, or stainless steel and hard plastics.
Stainless steel is also recognized for being non-corrosive and robust, although it is heavier and more expensive than aluminum.
Many factors determine why many truckers decide to pick aluminum for their toolboxes. Keep reading to hear the pros and cons of aluminum and gain insight into other materials on the market.
Why an Aluminum Tool Box its Popular a Better Option?
Aluminum is a popular choice for truck tool boxes, and this is due to a plethora of positives. . So which one should you choose? Here are a few reasons why an aluminum tool box is the better option:
Weight
Aluminum is much lighter than either steel or plastic, so it's easier to carry around. It's also more durable, so it can stand up to being dropped or banged around. And if you're working in wet conditions, aluminum won't absorb moisture like wood will.
Price
aluminum may not be cheaper than other materials such as steel, but when comparing the value you get with aluminum, it’s worth the extra cost. They are stronger than steel, lighter, and last longer; therefore are a more sensible investment. Plus, they're less likely to corrode over time, so you'll save money in the long run as well.
Rust and Corrosion-Resistant
Another advantage of aluminum is that it doesn't rust. That means your tools will stay in better condition for longer. And if you ever do need to replace your tool box, aluminum is fully recyclable, so you can feel good about doing your part for the environment.
they are strong and durable; as a result, they will last for years and could save you money in the long run. Strong and durable boxes also boast more confidence about your tool’s safety- both from the elements and other people.
Are There any Downsides to Aluminum Truck Toolboxes?
Despite the popularity of aluminum for truck tool boxes, there are downsides to using this material.
- Aluminum toolboxes can be expensive, so this may be difficult for new truckers or small businesses to attain.
- Aluminum toolboxes need routine maintenance; this is more hands-on and time-consuming than other materials and may hinder some truckers. This may also be a hindrance for less experienced truckers who do not have experience with maintaining and working with metal. This may mean hiring a professional that can maintain the boxes for you- adding additional costs.
Therefore, there are downsides to aluminum trucks. However, it must be stated that for many truckers, the benefits of a sturdy long-term investment may out way upfront cost of routine maintenance-which may already take place for other tools.
What Other Materials are Truck Toolboxes Made of?
There are truck toolboxes on the market made from materials other than aluminum, and with the downsides of aluminum, this is not a surprise.
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel is another option, but these boxes are not as common.
- Stainless steel boxes are strong and can be exposed to water. They are also cheaper than aluminum, so they could be an excellent option for smaller businesses or truckers that are just starting out. Steel is also solid, so there’s no fear of boxes sliding around your truck. Steel is tougher than aluminum, making it less likely to dent than aluminum- this may be beneficial for truckers who need to regularly move boxes on and off their truck. Stainless steel is also less brittle, making it less likely to snap when faced with cold climates.
- However, there are some downsides to stainless steel toolboxes. First, steel is heavy, so it could weigh down your truck. You may not be able to store as much due to the starting weight of the case and your physical limitations. Finally, chemicals such as chloride or bleach can corrode steel, so this is not a viable option for many industries that deal with these chemicals.
Hard plastic
Hard plastic or poly material is another popular option for truck toolboxes.
- Rigid plastic boxes are fully waterproof, so they can be exposed to water. They are lightweight but also rigid and almost impossible to dent. Plastic also doesn’t rust, unlike both steel and aluminum.
- There aren’t many downsides to plastic truck toolboxes. However, it is less durable and rough than metal, so when it snaps or breaks, it cannot be repaired, and you may need to replace your box, which will raise your costs.
Is it Essential to Have A Truck Toolbox?
Truck toolboxes can be expensive, heavy, and may need regular maintenance, so are they even worth it?
- Truck toolboxes protect your tools. If you’re working in environments with harsh weather such as rain or snow, it is imperative to protect your tools from becoming damaged.
- Truck toolboxes can help you be organized; you are less likely to forget items, leave items on-site, or lose things with a toolbox.
- Truck boxes will keep your tools safe from theft; when stored in your truck in a box, your tools won’t be visible to passers-by and therefore reduce the risk of them being stolen.
Even though they may be expensive, truck toolboxes boast a multitude of uses and, as a result, should be a staple for all truckers.
Final Words
Truck toolboxes can be aluminum, and many truckers opt to use this material. However, there are other options, such as steel and rigid plastics, and decisions should be made based on assessing the pros and cons of each in line with your needs.
For a sturdy long-term investment, aluminum is a great choice; however, steel may be a better option when working in cold environments where metal is likely to break. Therefore, it’s imperative to take time and use your situation to inform your choices.
For many truckers’ aluminum is a smart and long-term investment, so it should be the first option for all truckers.