A truck bed drawer system for your vehicle is a real investment. As you explore your options, you might be asking yourself these questions:
- How will I organize my gear ?
- What if I have a short bed? Will bed drawers still fit?
- Will the drawers and my content be secure? What happens if I take it off-road ?
- How much does it cost? (And how will I hide this from the wifey ?)
- What if I want to switch it back and forth from my daily driver to my work truck ?
- Can I ever reinstall it if I get a new truck?
- Is it gonna make my buddies jealous AF or what?
- Most importantly, which brand is going to work best for me and my truck?
Well, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got all the answers to your burning questions and more.
Gather ‘round, campers , it’s the showdown we’ve all been waiting for. We’ve compared two of the biggest names in truck drawer systems: TruckVault and DECKED. Each brand is made right here in the USA, but only one of them belongs in your truck bed.
So let’s see which takes the cake and makes it to your next overland adventure with you.
TruckVault in Review: An In-Vehicle Storage Solution
TruckVault grew from humble beginnings. A couple of decades ago, their current CEO and DIY-enthusiast built a homemade prototype drawer for the back of his truck to carry his hunting paraphernalia. At the parking lot of a trap shoot, someone asked where he’d gotten the drawers.
And so, one of the first in-vehicle drawer systems was born.
Since 1995, the company has grown to become a household name and is a leader in the truck storage industry. TruckVault makes a truck bed drawer system to fit just about any truck or van and offers off-the-shelf accessories .
TruckVault’s mission is a simple one: Provide a secure storage system for all of life’s demands.
Pros
- Lots of variety in their product/accessory offerings.
- Luxurious, higher-end aesthetic.
- Higher individual drawer weight capacity.
- Customizable drawer counts and sizes.
- Can create custom drawer systems based on your vehicle make and model.
Cons
- Cost an arm and a leg. And a shoulder. And a kneecap.
- Heavier in weight, especially with their bigger versions.
- Drawers are not as dust-proof; small particles and dust can end up in the drawers.
- Longer shipping time (from order to delivery: 3-5 weeks).
- Currently offers no finance options.
- Time-consuming system removal.
Reviewing DECKED: In-Vehicle and On-the-Go Storage Solutions
Want to talk about sweet, humble beginnings? The concept for the DECKED Drawer System started on a napkin in a local diner.
What followed was a few years of intense research, design, and engineering. DECKED then came up with a drawer system to solve all the common problems of truck bed storage and hit all the major tenets you want to see in a solution: security, organization, and accessibility.
And the rest, as they say, is history.
Since 2013, DECKED has blazed a trail in innovative, solution-oriented truck bed storage products and accessories for working men and women. Today, DECKED provides one of the best in-vehicle storage systems on the market and has quickly made a name for itself. One that stands among the giants. DECKED has also quickly become a leading brand in the aftermarket truck accessories world.
DECKED’s mission is clear and to the point: It’s to make your life better.
Pros
- DECKED’s focus on engineering a top-quality product without breaking your bank means you get an excellent system at a very reasonable price.
- DECKED offers financing solutions for those who qualify.
- Faster shipping time (from order to delivery: 1-2 weeks).
- DIY install or install at one of over 2,500 dealers nationwide.
- Easy 5-10 minute system removal.
- Organized, modular, grab-and-go storage compartments.
- Completely weatherproof and UV-resistant; won’t ding, rust, or dent.
- Innovative Tool Box option that works with certain 8’ truck beds.
Cons
- Not as many add-ons or luxurious accessories.
- Currently only offers one, most commonly desired drawer configuration.
DECKED vs. TruckVault: Let’s Compare
Time to get down and dirty. How do these two drawer systems stack up against one another? When comparing the drawer systems, we looked at all the main problems customers want to solve. Here’s the gist of it:
|
Let’s Compare |
TruckVault |
DECKED |
Winner |
|
Security |
|
|
DECKED |
|
Weather Resistance and Durability |
|
|
TIE |
|
Ease of Use and Accessibility |
|
|
DECKED |
|
Organization, Modular Storage, and Accessories |
|
|
TIE |
|
Vehicle Compatibility, Dimensions (* Based on standard truck bed) , and Product Weight |
|
|
TIE |
|
Installation |
|
|
TIE |
|
Removal |
|
|
DECKED |
|
Warranties and Shipping |
|
|
DECKED |
|
Tool Box Options |
|
|
DECKED |
|
Pricing (* Based on standard drawer systems ) |
|
|
DECKED |
DECKED takes the cake when it comes to an all-around, 360-degree truck bed storage solution. At a reasonable price, lighter weight, and fully modular, DECKED relieves all the pain points of truck bed storage.
But what if you want a little bit more detail? Don’t worry, we got you covered. Jump to a section:
DECKED vs. TruckVault: Let’s Compare
Time to get down and dirty. How do these two drawer systems stack up against one another? When comparing the drawer systems, we looked at all the main problems customers want to solve. Here’s the gist of it:
|
Let’s Compare |
TruckVault |
DECKED |
Winner |
|
Security |
|
|
DECKED |
|
Weather Resistance and Durability |
|
|
TIE |
|
Ease of Use and Accessibility |
|
|
DECKED |
|
Organization, Modular Storage, and Accessories |
|
|
TIE |
|
Vehicle Compatibility, Dimensions (* Based on standard truck bed) , and Product Weight |
|
|
TIE |
|
Installation |
|
|
TIE |
|
Removal |
|
|
DECKED |
|
Warranties and Shipping |
|
|
DECKED |
|
Tool Box Options |
|
|
DECKED |
|
Pricing (* Based on standard drawer systems ) |
|
|
DECKED |
DECKED takes the cake when it comes to an all-around, 360-degree truck bed storage solution. At a reasonable price, lighter weight, and fully modular, DECKED relieves all the pain points of truck bed storage.
But what if you want a little bit more detail? Don’t worry, we got you covered. Jump to a section:
Security
TruckVault
TruckVault drawers are no stranger to security (they have the word “vault” in their name after all!). Wanna know what makes TruckVault drawers as secure as they are? TruckVault drawers:
- Are made from medium-density overlay (MDO) , which is basically a really strong wood material.
- Are secured by their five-button combination locks with a key override.
- Offer an electronic key fob locking system.
DECKED
The DECKED Drawer System is no stranger to security either. Built with security in mind, DECKED drawers:
- Are supported and reinforced by a galvanized steel subframe.
- Are constructed from 100% recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE).
- Feature an all-accessible strength-to-weight ratio.
- Feature stainless steel hardware and cast aluminum handles.
- Feature a solid, key-locking system.
- Feature two points of locking: the first being the Drawer System itself, and the second being the tailgate being up and locked as well.
- Is basically like Fort Knox.
- Would challenge even the most well-prepared professional thief.
No one’s getting in. It’s that simple.
Weather Resistance and Durability
TruckVault
How does TruckVault stand up to Mother Nature? Let’s take a look:
- As mentioned, TruckVault products are made of medium-density overlay boards, which are pretty fire-resistant.
- MDO doesn’t attract moisture, making it ideal for storing firearms and cameras.
- Their Extreme Series unit is wrapped in waterproof Line-X protective liner (which is apparently durable enough to attract the attention of the Mythbusters ).
- The drawer closures are protected by rubber bulb seals so it’s mostly waterproof, but not airtight.
You’ll probably still have to be wary of dust, sand, mist, fine snow, etc. If you really need to be sure your gear stays dry, you might like the added weather protection and security benefits of a truck cap . TruckVault drawers not protected by a truck cap are best sprayed with a bed liner overcoat, but this adds more weight and more money to the overall cost.
DECKED
We don’t stop for bad weather here. We need a storage solution that’s as tough and hardworking as we are. That’s exactly the kind of heavy-duty products DECKED offers. And because DECKED knows that nature can be a real mother, DECKED designers made sure DECKED drawers could face pretty much anything Mother Nature had to throw its way. DECKED drawers:
- Are fully weatherproof and waterproof. (The proof is in the pudding .) HDPE is impervious to the elements, will never rot or degrade over time, and all hardware is treated with extreme rust inhibitors.
- Are made with built-in UV protection, so it’s not going to crack or be adversely affected by the sun or the rain.
- Won’t dent, ding, or rust even in most extreme climates.
- Guarantee your expensive tools and gear remain safe and in the condition, they’re meant to be in.
Of course, some mist or really fine particles can end up in the drawers, though this is extremely rare. Unless you’re planning on driving through the world’s biggest sandstorm, your drawer contents will stay dry and protected.
Ease of Use and Accessibility
TruckVault
Drawers are pretty easy to use no matter where they’re manufactured. As pioneers in the industry, this is something TruckVault nails. So how easy are TruckVault drawers to use and how accessible are your tools? TruckVault drawers:
- Slide out using an L-track system, making the glide pretty smooth and easy.
- Have different drawer counts (you can get two or more, or offset drawers of differing sizes).
- Make your tools accessible in either vertical or horizontal dividers that section off the interior of the drawer.
DECKED
DECKED knows the importance of ease of use and making sure your tools are accessible in seconds. You should be able to snap your fingers and have all your stuff come to you. Well, that’s exactly the goal. DECKED drawers:
- Slide-out easily and smooth-as-butter on sealed bearing wheels. Because there are no tracks or slides, the drawers never bend or bind; they’ll also roll more smoothly with the more weight you put in them.
- Bring your items to you and offer modular storage options and dividers (more on these later), making your life easier. Which is what this whole thing is about, isn’t it?
- Give you full access to your true truck bed. DECKED covers the wheel wells for a wall-to-wall, flat load surface and can handle a 2,000 lb payload. DECKED gives you back (if not, more ) truck bed surface area to work with.
- Don’t require a bed liner to use, a drill to install, and is offered at a price that’s more accessible to most people.
- Make your life easier and your tools more accessible through its optimized strength-to-weight ratio.
That’s about as easy and accessible as it gets.
Organization, Modular Storage, and Accessories
TruckVault
When it comes to accessories, TruckVault’s got a little bit more than what most people can chew. Not all of their accessories are designed for organization, but they are well designed and thought out, and put a little oomph in the razzle-dazzle department. Here’s what we’re dealing with:
- A table extension that’s nestled underneath the drawers to provide another surface area if needed. Extends out of the back of the truck.
- A cargo bed slide that goes on top of the drawer system itself. (They don’t make this product themselves, but you can add a CargoGlide [a brand of slides for your bed] a la carte. CargoGlides also fit with DECKED, but TruckVault allows you to order it during checkout.)
- Tie-down rails to secure any cargo stored on top of the drawer system.
- In-drawer lighting to illuminate the interior of the drawers with estimated 16-20 hour battery life.
- Foam inserts and carpeted dividers that you can customize within the drawers.
- A “Bumperchute,” which is basically a mounted awning/tent-like structure to provide an enclosed space above the back of your SUV or covered pickup. TruckVault doesn’t manufacture these, but you can order it a la carte as well.
- A “Daybox,” which is a storage compartment meant specifically for alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and explosives.
- A map board if you need a flat writing surface. You can add a pencil cubby if you want as well.
- A technology platform, which is their power inverter that provides a USB port for your drawers.
- Option for a surface coating.
- A rubber mat to place on top of the drawers for extra padding and protection.
DECKED
DECKED is focused on providing high-quality modular solutions to all your storage needs. We wanted cutting-edge solutions both in-vehicle and on-the-go. With DECKED, you are more mobile than ever. Here’s how we make your life easier:
- The DECKED D-Box is a large, lockable, gasket-sealed, weatherproof tool box made to take abuse while still keeping your gear safe and secure. Fit two in a short (5’5”) drawer, and three in a standard (6’6”) drawer, or take it to-go. Simply pull it out and take it with you wherever you need. Store your tactical guns in a drawer and ammo in a D-Box. Or, you might store your camping gear in a drawer and small hunting tools in the box. Choose from desert tan or blue, and swap them out easily for any of your next adventures.
- DECKED’s Crossbox is a half-size version of the D-Box and every bit as solid. No one’s going to get into these without the key and your gear will be dry and exactly where you left them. Fits all DECKED drawers: crosswise in wide full- and midsize drawers and lengthwise in narrow midsize drawers. Choose from desert tan or blue, and start building the streamlined setup you deserve.
- DECKED’s innovative Drawerganizer™ fits the front of the drawer perfectly, fully utilizing the otherwise wasted space around the locking mechanism. The DECKED Drawerganizer™ fits all full-size truck and cargo van drawers, and midsize truck wide drawers. Easy to install and at the incredibly affordable price of $20, the Drawerganizer™ will make the absolute most of every inch.
- But let’s say you’re hiking or gettin’ outta dodge. You probably want a bag, right? Here’s your answer: the DECKED D-Bag . The D-Bag is a hard shell bag and tool box , all in one. You can wear it as a backpack, carry it horizontally, or as a briefcase (for the days you have to go into the board meeting after your hunt). It fits inside the drawers and our Tool Box, but better yet, fits your exact lifestyle. Its military-grade construction and double reinforcement ensure maximum security and protection. The bag features a tool roll and tool sleeves, aluminum carry handles, and an integrated duffle bag inside (yes, you get a whole other bag).
- DECKED’s custom-made foam inserts from Kaizen are perfect for protecting fragile and expensive tools. Hunting and fishing equipment, firearms, musical instruments, cameras …whatever you’re hauling about. You can use them in a drawer or the D-Box or Crossbox.
- DECKED dividers take your organization up another notch. Customize the drawers especially for your gear and all your bits and pieces. They’re easily removable and modular to suit your immediate needs. They’re available in different sizes and come in sets of two or four. You can get a combination of whatever works best for you and whatever will make your life easier.
- Drain plugs . These will take your dry storage and turn it into wet storage! Going to the tailgate and in charge of drinks? Use a drain plug, turn your drawer into a cooler, and save the day.
- The newest addition to the DECKED family: the DECKED Tool Box . The DECKED Tool Box is so innovative, we’re going to give it its own section below. You might want to stick around for that. For now, just know there is nothing like it on the market.
Vehicle Compatibility, Dimensions, and Product Weight
TruckVault
TruckVault drawers fit nearly every make and model of truck and the company will custom make a drawer system if you drive something they’ve never heard of (…except maybe a Smart Car). Drawer system dimensions depend on the specific make and model of your truck. But to get a general idea, here are the dimensions for their Field Ranger model, made for uncovered pickup trucks:
- Approximate product weight: 130-265 lbs
- Approximate width: 64”
- Approximate length: 75.5”
- Approximate height: 16.25”
- Individual drawer capacity: 300 lbs
- Payload capacity: 2,000 lbs
DECKED
Regardless of whether you drive a Toyota Tundra or Taco , a Chevy Colorado or Silverado , or a Ford F150 , DECKED has you covered. DECKED systems are compatible with most pickup truck makes and models within the last 15-20 years. You can get DECKED drawers for your midsize truck or cargo van as well.
So let’s talk dimensions . Of course, these will vary depending on your truck; just know that every DECKED system is custom-shaped to your truck so there are no large gaps or cavities that can attract clutter. Here are the dimensions for a standard bed truck:
- Approximate product weight: 200-230 lbs
- Approximate width: 63”-71”
- Approximate length: 75.25”
- Approximate height: 12”
- Individual drawer capacity: 200 lbs
- Payload capacity: 2,000 lbs
Installation
Specific instructions vary for different truck models and drawer sizes, but here’s a quick overview that applies in most cases.
TruckVault
You’ll find the hardware and parts you need for the left side in the left drawer, and what you need for the right side in the right drawer. Here’s an overview of basic installation:
- Take out the drawer stoppers and the drawers.
- Slide the drawer boxes in and attach all the supports into pre-drilled holes using provided bolts.
- Attach the lids and wings to complete the top.
- Slide the drawers back in place, and reinstall the rubber stoppers.
DECKED
The entire ownership experience should be a breeze from start to finish—that’s why DECKED engineers went out of their way to make installation as easy as possible. DECKED engineers focused specifically on ensuring a no-drill installation, giving you the best resale value for your truck.
Some assembly is required (similar to TruckVault) and then the installation is pretty simple: Slide the structure in and anchor it, slide in the drawers, and install the tailgate-end wheels.
No rocket science needed here; that’s our DECKED guarantee.
Removal
TruckVault
Taking the drawer system out isn’t difficult, but it’s a little time-consuming. The box is held in place by turnbuckles attached to the tie-downs and D-rings on the sides and the brackets at the cab end of your truck. To access them, you’ll need to disassemble the top wings and faceplates covering the empty spaces on both sides of the box.
After you’ve taken the top apart, it’s easy to unlatch the turnbuckles and release the system. Only then can you slide the whole thing out. Just be sure to remember where everything goes in order to reassemble it.
DECKED
Removing a DECKED Drawer System is ridiculously easy. Even your ol’ granny could do it. (You might have to help her a bit, but you get the gist.)
- First, unscrew and remove the DECKED ruler.
- Then you’ll unhook the J-hooks in all four corners of the truck bed.
- Next, wedge a 2-inch piece of plywood (or anything works, really) underneath a drawer to give you some space to unscrew and remove the wheels.
- Slide that drawer on out. Easy does it.
- Take out half of the bolts in the center support. These will be from the same side you removed the drawer.
- Find a large man-child to help you lift out the side of the system with the removed drawer, and then slide out the other side.
- These three pieces will store nicely in a stacked pallet-like formation.
- (To reinstall, do these same steps but reversed.)
That’s it! It’ll take you about 5-10 minutes and you’re back before halftime’s over. Don’t believe us? Here’s a video .
Warranties and Shipping
TruckVault
TruckVault shipping is free and the time it takes from the point of order to delivery is about 3-5 weeks for a standard unit (more customized versions may take longer). TruckVault comes with a limited lifetime warranty, but it does not apply:
- If it’s not installed properly.
- If it’s damaged by use, weather, wrecks, or a natural disaster.
- If it’s damaged because it’s not enclosed or covered. (In the bed of a pickup truck? You’ll need a weatherproof tonneau cover or topper.)
- If the drawers are not properly maintained.
- To the locks. Those are covered by the lock manufacturer.
- With a new owner if you sell the drawers or the truck with the drawers in it.
DECKED
DECKED Drawer Systems are shipped free within the continental U.S. and shipped out within 5-7 business days. Shipping time from the point of order to actual delivery is about 1-2 weeks, max.
Your DECKED Drawer System comes with a lifetime warranty regarding any manufacturing defects in workmanship and materials. The warranty applies to you and does not extend to a new owner if you sell the drawers or the truck with the drawers in it. The warranty doesn’t apply:
- To damage done by misuse, mishandling, or intentional abuse.
- If you use it the wrong way or not in accordance with our instructions or recommendations.
- If it’s not assembled according to our installation instructions.
- To normal wear and tear.
- If it was damaged during shipping and you didn’t report it.
- If it was damaged by an act of God and you didn’t report it.
- If you decided to put your F150 system into, say, a Humvee or Suburban and modified it to fit.
- But really, DECKED has never not warrantied an issue, believing that a happy customer is what this is all about. Just tell us the truth or a really good story.
Also, just so you know, you, your vehicle, and personal property aren’t covered. (That’s Geico’s territory.)
Tool Box Options
TruckVault
TruckVault doesn’t currently offer a tool box option in its product portfolio.
DECKED
DECKED’s Tool Box is a 21st-century truck accessory every truck owner should have. DECKED’s new Tool Box is unparalleled in the market and is compatible with the DECKED Drawer System in certain 8-foot SKUs. Name a better duo… we’ll wait.
While you’re thinking of a better duo, let’s review the Tool Box in detail:
- Durability : Constructed with high-impact, injection-molded polymer ASA and HDPE resins for total protection against dents, scratching, and punctures. Also made of anti-corrosion steel hardware and aluminum for long-lasting durability, NOBODY’s getting in this thing.
- Accessibility: The only tool box in the game that considered accessibility into its design. The Tool Box features an integrated, telescopic ladder that nests right underneath the lid. You can pull it out when you need to access your gear and slide it right back in when not needed. Access over 50% of your storage from the side of the truck, without having to jump in the bed.
- Weatherproofness: The Tool Box is completely weatherproof. It’s built with a seamless waterproof architecture to deal with extreme conditions. Mother Earth, do your worst.
- Lid Support: Torsion spring that runs along the hinge (easy to open and close the lid with one hand).
- Organization Options: Comes complete with a DECKED D-Box and can fit the D-Bag and Crossbox .
Price range: $699.99 without the ladder, $874.99 with the ladder.
Pricing
Since pricing varies with size and different truck models, we can’t list them all. But just for a ballpark reference point, these prices are for a full-size 8’ truck bed.
TruckVault
The price for a TruckVault pickup series/all-weather line, standard 2-drawer system is $4,745.00. Shipping is free to the continental United States, but residential/liftgate fees may apply.
What’s included in the price?
- Compression locks for the drawers.
- 2 long standard-height dividers.
- 2 short standard-height dividers.
Currently, there is no financing option available.
DECKED
The price of the DECKED Drawer System is $1,349.99. It ships free to the continental U.S.
What’s included in the price?
-
- 1 D-Box in desert tan.
- 1 Crossbox in desert tan.
- 2 wide drawer dividers.
- 1 Drawerganizer™.
- (Any additional accessories can be tacked on for a small $25 shipping fee.)
DECKED has an agreement with Affirm Financing . Qualified buyers can get up to 0% APR financing for 6 months, or payments with interest (depending on your credit score) for 12-18 months.
In-Vehicle Storage with DECKED
With a mission to make your life easier, DECKED systems solve all the common truck storage issues while still being completely affordable.
If you’re looking for an in-vehicle storage solution that checks all the boxes, consider DECKED. DECKED is a solution made right here in the USA, made for all working men and women, made for you.
