If you have a trailer that you use to haul things, having some storage for things like straps and chains is essential. For some people, a truck toolbox works fine, but if you do not have space in the truck or if you pull the trailer with a car or SUV, adding an aluminum trailer storage box can give you the storage you need.
Trailer Boxes
Adding an aluminum trailer storage box to your trailer may require a little planning to ensure that you do not take cargo space away from the trailer. Many trailers have enough space along the outside edge of the trailer for the box. Alternatively, if you can afford a little loss of deck space, you could add the box to the deck at the front of the trailer, so it is easier to access and puts the weight over the tongue.
A configuration like this works fine for flatbed trailers like utility trailers, car haulers, or lawn and garden trailers, but if the trailer is enclosed, it can be challenging to get to the trailer box when there is cargo in the trailer. The trailer storage box mounted facing the front works best but only if the trailer is open and you can get to the doors on the box.
Tongue Mounted Boxes
Another type of trailer storage box to consider is one that mounts on the frame or tongue of the trailer, right in front of the cargo area. These boxes are often shaped to match the angles of the frame so that they do not make it difficult to get close to the trailer from the front corners.
The boxes come in different sizes to fit different trailers and can hold a lot of weight, but remember that the more weight you put in the box, the more tongue weight you are adding to the trailer, and that can affect the way the trailer handles when it is in tow,
Locks and Security
No matter what style aluminum trailer storage box you are considering, it is vital to make sure that the boxes have strong locks on them to keep them secure. If the box needs additional security, you may want to have a hasp added for a padlock or a security bar added to the trailer that can be placed over the box's lid.
A strong combination or keyed padlock is almost always enough to deter thieves, but it is also a good idea to not store valuable items in the trailer box when the trailer is unattended.
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