Truck owners looking to optimize cargo space and organization need look no further than truck bed storage and cargo management systems. These contraptions maximize usable truck bed capacity while keeping tools and gear securely stowed and easy to access.
The Decked system dominates the truck bed storage market. Its unique combination of weatherproof lockable drawers and an upper deck for hauling oversized items sets it apart. But Decked isn’t the only player in the game. Several competing truck bed storage systems offer useful alternatives depending on your needs and budget.
This guide examines the key differences between the Decked system and its major competitors on the market. We’ll cover the costs, weight capacities, security features, and ideal use cases to help you choose the best truck bed storage system for your needs.
Alternatives To Decked Truck Bed Storage Systems
Here is a list of those substitutes:
- Truck Bed Tool Boxes
- TruckVault In-Bed Storage
- Tuffy Security Drawers
- BedSlide Pickup Bed Sliding Trays
- Undercover SwingCase Storage
- Retractable Truck Bed Covers
- DIY Wood Storage Platforms
Let’s talk about them in detail.
Truck Bed Tool Boxes
One of the simplest and most cost-effective alternatives is a traditional truck bed tool box. These come in various shapes and sizes, typically made of heavy-duty steel or aluminum.
Pros
- Much lower cost – starting around $150
- Simple installation
Cons
- Less storage capacity than Decked drawers
- No upper storage deck
- Not weatherproof without gaskets
- Limited security features on some models
If you just need basic enclosed storage for small tools and don’t need the full dual-level system, a truck bed tool box can be a budget-friendly option.
Look for models with sturdy locking lids and rubber gaskets to get the most weatherproofing.
Be sure to measure your bed dimensions first to get the right size box.
TruckVault In-Bed Storage
TruckVault is one of Decked’s top competitors, offering similar enclosed drawer storage but at a lower profile.
Pros
- Lockable drawers for secure enclosed storage
- Full-length drawer slides for easy access
- Better security via keyless digital locks or key fobs
- Lower profile keeps drawers hidden when not in use
Cons
- No upper deck for hauling larger items
- Lower weight capacity of 75 lbs per drawer
- More difficult installation process
With its in-bed drawer design, the TruckVault system maintains a flat truck bed surface while keeping your gear securely locked away and out of sight. This makes it a sleeker, lower profile alternative to the Decked system. Just know that it lacks the upper level storage capacity.
Tuffy Security Drawers
For the most heavy-duty and rugged enclosed storage, Tuffy Security Drawers are a prime option. They feature rigid steel construction with locking panels and lids.
Pros
- Extremely rugged and secure steel builds
- Higher weight capacities of 300+ lbs per drawer
- Built-in locks and security features
- More affordable than Decked
Cons
- No upper deck so reduced hauling capacity
- Not weatherproof without added gaskets
- Limited configurations for some truck beds
Tuffy drawers are similar to tool boxes but with enhanced security built right in.
If theft protection is your top concern and you plan to store heavy tools and equipment inside, Tuffy’s robust steel drawers are an ideal choice.
They can take a beating while keeping your gear locked down.
BedSlide Pickup Bed Sliding Trays
For easy and full access to everything stored in your truck bed, BedSlide trays bring full organization and accessibility.
Pros
- Sliding trays extend fully for easy access
- Customizable trays to suit needs
- Maintains flat bed surface when not in use
- Affordable compared to Decked
Cons
- Not enclosed or weatherproof storage
- Lower security than lockable drawers
BedSlide trays don’t offer the same secure, enclosed storage as Decked. But the full-extension sliding trays let you easily access all your gear. So they can be perfect for storing equipment you use on a regular basis. Just don’t expect full weather protection or locking security.
Also Read: Differences Between Lock’er Down And Console Vault Vehicle Console Safes.
Undercover SwingCase Storage
The Undercover SwingCase provides weatherproof storage compartments that swing out from underneath the truck bed for easy access.
Pros
- Enclosed and lockable storage to protect gear
- Swing out cases allow easy access without climbing into truck bed
- More affordable than Decked
Cons
- Less storage space than Decked drawers
- No upper storage deck
- Not as durable or secure as heavy duty drawers
Retractable Truck Bed Covers
Retractable, roll-up tonneau covers secure over your truck bed to protect cargo from weather and theft.
Pros
- Cover provides security and weather protection when closed
- Retracts out of the way when not needed
- Potentially more affordable than Decked
Cons
- Not lockable storage like Decked drawers
- No organization features to keep gear tidy
DIY Wood Storage Platforms
For the handy DIYer, wooden storage platforms with bins and drawers can be customized to your truck bed.
Pros
- Fully customizable to your specific storage needs
- Usually more affordable than pre-made systems
Cons
- Requires woodworking skills and tools to build
- Not as durable or weatherproof as Decked
- Limited security features
The DIY approach can be cost-effective but requires time and effort to design and build a quality system.
Other Alternatives
Beyond these major options, you can also find unique DIY solutions using various toolboxes, steel cabinets, plastic bins, and other storage pieces mounted in your truck bed. Customizing your own system allows you to tailor the storage to your specific cargo needs.
But it also requires more effort to engineer a solution that’s durable and easy to access. Off-the-shelf systems like Decked provide optimized truck storage without the hassle.
Also Read: Differences Between CamLocker And WeatherGuard Toolboxes.
Overview of the Decked System
Before diving into the alternatives, let’s review the key features and benefits of the Decked system:
- Dual-level storage with 2 lockable drawers and upper deck
- Drawers provide enclosed, weatherproof storage for tools/gear
- Upper deck allows you to haul lumber, ladders, etc over the drawers
- Weight capacity of 200 lbs per drawer, 2,000 lbs on upper deck
- Keyed lock system on drawers for security
- Customizable drawer dividers and organizers
- Integrated tie-down points across upper deck
- No drilling required for installation
- Works with bed liners
- Made in USA with durable HDPE construction
The Decked system maximizes both secure enclosed storage and hauling capacity. The weatherproof drawers keep your tools and gear safe from the elements or theft, while the upper deck lets you utilize the rest of your bed for larger items.
It’s an optimized and versatile system. But it also carries a hefty price tag at around $1,600 or more. For those seeking similar storage solutions at a lower cost, several alternatives are worth considering.
Key Considerations When Choosing A Truck Bed Storage System
When deciding between Decked vs other truck bed storage alternatives, keep these key factors in mind:
- Storage Needs
Consider how much enclosed gear storage you need versus open bed space for hauling larger cargo. The Decked system maximizes both, but other options like TruckVault focus more on just the drawer storage. Know how you’ll use your truck bed before choosing the right storage system.
- Weight Capacity
Decked offers generous 200 lb drawer capacities, but other systems may range between 75-300+ lbs per drawer. Make sure to choose an option rated to hold the tools, equipment, and cargo you need to store.
- Security Level
The locking drawers of Decked provide very good security. But options like Tuffy offer even tougher steel builds and TruckVault has advanced keyless locks. Know how much security matters for your use case. Open tray systems provide minimal security.
- Weather Protection
Decked’s sealed drawers keep your gear protected from rain, snow, dust and more. Not all alternatives provide the same level of weatherproofing without adding your own gaskets and seals.
- Installation Requirements
Decked provides a simpler installation process than most competitors. But some may require drilling holes, permanent mounting, or custom fabrication. Check that you can install the system in your specific truck make and model.
- Price
There’s no avoiding the fact that Decked costs considerably more than most other truck bed storage options. But you also get an integrated dual-level system optimized for secure weatherproof storage and versatile cargo capacity. For budget buyers, simple tool boxes present the most affordable options.
- Ideal Use Cases
Decked makes the most sense for users with a mix of hauling needs – enclosed storage for tools and gear, plus open bed access for large items. TruckVault suits those prioritizing just secure drawer storage. Open trays like BedSlide work best if you need super easy access above all else.
Once you determine your must-have features and know how the truck bed storage will be used, you can zero in on the right system for your needs. The Decked system shines for its versatility, quality of storage, and dual-level design. But one of its more affordable competitors may also fit the bill if you’re willing to compromise on some of Decked’s advantages.
Also Read: Substitutes To Dometic Fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Decked has several major competitors in the truck bed storage market, most notably:
1. TruckVault
2. Tuffy Security Drawers
3. BedSlide Sliding Trays
4. Traditional truck bed tool boxes
Each competitor has pros and cons compared to the Decked system. TruckVault offers similar drawer storage, while Tuffy provides extremely secure steel builds. BedSlide maximizes accessibility using sliding trays. And simple tool boxes present a budget-friendly option.
The TruckVault in-bed drawer system is most similar to Decked in providing enclosed, lockable storage drawers built right into the truck bed. The major difference is that TruckVault lacks an upper deck for hauling like you get with Decked. TruckVault maintains just the flat bed surface when not in use. Other TruckVault advantages include better security features with digital locks, a lower profile drawer design, and full-extension drawer slides. But it has a lower weight capacity per drawer compared to Decked.
Each of the two Decked drawers can hold up to 200 lbs evenly distributed. The upper deck has a total weight capacity of 2,000 lbs, allowing you to haul lumber, ladders, ATVs, and other large gear on top. So in total, the Decked system can handle up to 2,400 lbs when fully loaded. This gives you excellent storage capacity for both tools in the drawers and larger cargo on the deck.
The Decked storage system provides very good security for your gear thanks to its heavy-duty lockable drawers. Each drawer comes with two slam-latch locking points controlled by a central lock cylinder. This requires a key to open and close, keeping your tools and equipment protected from theft or unauthorized access. The lid design also uses interlocking weather strips to seal the drawers shut. So you get both locking security and protection from the elements. The only way to access the drawers is with a properly matched Decked key.
Final Thoughts
The Decked truck bed storage system stands out for its dual-level design with lockable, weatherproof drawers and an upper hauling deck. But it comes at a premium price point.
Truck owners seeking enclosed cargo organization at a lower cost have several solid alternatives to consider, from in-bed drawers like TruckVault to sliding trays like BedSlide. Simple truck bed tool boxes also offer budget-friendly options, though with less features.
When choosing the best truck bed storage for your needs and budget, be sure to consider factors like weight capacity, weather protection, security, and installation requirements. And most importantly, match the storage system features to how you plan to use your truck bed.
With the right setup, you can maximize the storage potential in your truck bed while keeping important cargo and tools organized, protected, and easy to access.
