How to Build Truck Bed Storage Boxes

If you have tools laying loose in the back of your truck, you could injure other drivers if one were to fly out. However, storing tools in a secure box in the back can eliminate this risk. This article provides step-by-step instruction on how to build a small wooden storage box with a hinged top using a few carpentry tools, plywood and hardware.

Things You'll Need

• 2 sheets of 4-feet by 8 3/4-foot plywood
• Measuring tape
• Circular saw
• Sander
• Wood stain or paint
• Water sealant
• Large brush
• 1 1/2-inch Wood screws
• Screwdriver
• 2 4-inch Hinges
• 5/8-inch Wood screws

Instructions

Cutting the Pieces for Your Storage Box

1. Cut four 2-foot by 3-foot pieces from the plywood with the circular saw for the top, bottom and two sides of your chest.

2. Cut 2 1-foot 10 3/4-inch by 2-foot pieces. These are the end pieces.

3. Sand any rough edges off the cut pieces. Apply wood stain or paint with a brush and allow to dry. Next, apply water sealant to them.

Putting Your Storage Box Together

1. Assemble the outside of the storage box using all four side pieces. Put two 2-foot by 3-foot pieces on a 3-foot edge two feet apart and parallel to each other. Place the two remaining pieces on a 1-foot 10 3/4-foot side between them completing the rectangular frame. Attach the frame together by driving five 1 1/2-inch screws through both ends of the longer pieces and into the shorter sides.

2. Attach the bottom of the storage box. Place a 2-foot by 3-foot piece over the frame and line it up. Drive a 1 1/2-inch screw through it. Continue every six inches going all the way around the edges of the frame. Flip the finished portion of the box over on the bottom.

3. Install the two hinges on one of the 3-foot sides of the remaining piece for the lid. Attach them with 5/8-inch screws 4 inches inwards from each end with the hinge portion facing outward over the side.

4. Ask a friend to hold the lid in the open position over a 3-foot side of the frame while you screw the other halves of the hinges down into the side of the chest. Close the lid.

Tips & Warnings

• Add a lock on the side of the box and on the lid for security.

• Be cautious when using power tools.