Today at 4 State Trucks, we are talking about step boxes and will discuss 3 of our best selling brands. There is a lot of room under your sleeper storage and trailer to have big toolboxes. These smaller boxes are a convenient way to get to the frame of your truck and for storing stuff like fuel filters, air governors, boots, and other stuff you do not want to use your precious space in your sleeper’s luggage compartment for.

What Size Do I need?

A step box comes in all different sizes. The size you need depends on how much space you have between the back of your fuel tank and the quarter fender. We can generally help provide you with a great solution that maximizes your available space.

Sturdy-Lite Step Boxes

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option and want a great toolbox for the money, Sturdy-Lite is a great way to go! They are a USA based manufacture and have been in business for over 40 years.

  • Available in a 12 inch, 18 inch, 24 inch, 36 inch, and 48 inch.
  • Solid Alumimum Construction.
  • Made in the USA.
  • Stainless steel latches and hinges.
  • Will not rust.
  • Lockable
  • With rubber weather seal to prevent water damage.
  • All Boxes use a minimum of â…› inch thick sheet of aluminum.
  • Requires mounting brackets.

Merritt Saddle Boxes

Merrit tool boxes are made to last ten or more years. They move easily so you can move your toolbox with you as you upgrade trucks.

  • Available in a 12 inch, 18 inch, 24 inch, 36 inch.
  • Optional internal chain rack or dividers.
  • Available in a smooth or diamond plated aluminum.
  • Will not rust.
  • Stainless steel latches and hinges.
  • Lockable
  • With rubber weather seal to prevent water damage.
  • With Double Plated Corners to ensure a stronger frame.
  • Mounting brackets only needed on 36 Inch Box.

Bawer Step Boxes

These Bawer stainless steel boxes really do stand out. The big visual difference between these boxes and the other two brands is the mirror finish on the stainless steel. They are manufactured in Italy with the help of robotic technology. This type of manufacturing process allows for improved precision while keeping costs down.

  • Available in an 18 inch, 24 inch, 30 inch
  • Made of stainless steel.
  • Will never rust or tarnish.
  • Easy to clean with soap and water.
  • Plastic latches and hinges.
  • Lockable
  • With rubber weather seal to prevent water damage.
  • Equipped with gas shocks.
  • Requires mounting brackets.

Mounting

Something to think about when price comparing. If you go with a Sturdy-Lite or Bawer box you will need to buy a basic mounting kit to ensure they hold up and last to being climbed up and down on. We do sell the kits at 4 State Trucks. At this time, this will typically add about $90 to $100 to the total cost of getting a step box.

Want to skip the cost of brackets without risking damage to your box? Merrit saddle boxes have doubled plated back corners where it mounts to the frame of your truck. As a result, you can mount your box securely without the need of using brackets. The manufacturer’s instructions indicate a mounting kit for a 12 inch, 18 inch, and 24 inch box is not needed when installed correctly. 

A Question For Bossman

Why is the Bawer box, the most expensive one out of the three tool boxes built with plastic latches? Wouldn’t the metal hinges be the more appropriate choice? 

Bawer’s step boxes feature highly durable and strong plastic latches and hinges. They can withstand extreme heat and subfreezing temperatures. Bawer is an international and well-trusted manufacture. They have tested several different types of hinges and latches to choose the material to ensure they are providing high-end and extremely durable tool boxes. So in this case a plastic may be the better option or at least a very effective alternative.

Check out the step and saddle boxes we have to offer. If you have any questions about what box is best for you, stop to see us in Joplin, Missouri at 4 State Trucks or give us a call.