Ive been running GMC Sierras for over a decade now so I usually know my way around a truck bed setup but I just started a mobile detailing business here in Dallas and my old system of just using crates and bungees isnt cutting it anymore. I need to keep my polishers and expensive chemicals secure but I still need the full bed length for my ladder and the occasional plywood run. I looked at the Decked drawers but I really dont want to lose that much vertical depth for when I haul my bike. Budget is around $900 and I gotta find something by next weekend. What are the top rated bed storage solutions for the Sierra 1500 that dont kill all my floor space?
I would suggest staying away from the floor-based systems entirely if you need to haul a bike. I had a similar issue with my detailing gear and ended up going with side-mounted options to keep the main bed floor open for my plywood. Its a much safer bet for a mobile business where you need quick access without moving everything around. You might want to consider these specific items for your Sierra:
Quick reply while I have a sec. I've tried a few of the top rated setups and honestly they were pretty disappointing for professional mobile work. TL;DR: Most plastic organizers aren't sturdy enough for heavy detailing chemicals. Use a heavy-duty divider and a hard cover instead of swing boxes. I wasted money on the UnderCover SwingCase Truck Bed Storage Box SC203D thinking it would be the perfect fix. Unfortunately, the mounting bracket is a major weak point. When you load it up with heavy gallons of soap and degreaser, it sags and rattles like crazy on Texas highways. Not exactly what I want when I have expensive polishers inside that box. Its just too flimsy for the price and the security is laughable if someone really wants your tools. I also tried the BAK Industries BAKBox 2 Fold-Away Utility Box. It is supposed to be heavy duty since it integrates with the tonneau rails, but the build quality just isnt there. I had issues with the panels bowing under relatively light loads and the folding hinges felt like they were gonna snap. Plus, it sits right at the bulkhead, so it still interferes with my bikes front tire when I am trying to load up. If you are worried about security in Dallas, stay away from the plastic stuff. I would look for a heavy-duty Heininger 4016 Hitchmate Cargo Stabilizer Bar to keep your chemicals upright and then spend the rest of your budget on a solid locking tonneau. Most of these storage solutions feel like toys compared to actual work gear... just my two cents.
@Reply #2 - good point! I had issues with gear sliding and breaking expensive bottles. Unfortunately, cheap bins won't work.