This project was designed and built by Chris from A Glimpse Inside. It’s a practical and clean solution for adding organized storage to the bed of a pickup truck.
If you’re tired of groceries sliding around or smaller items getting lost during transport, this custom insert helps keep everything secure. Chris walks through the full process on his YouTube channel, offering a clear and adaptable design.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Chris’s channel:
Why Add a Storage Insert?
Pickup beds are spacious but often lack containment for everyday items. A storage insert solves this issue by providing a fixed compartment to organize and secure your cargo.
It’s especially helpful for families who make frequent grocery runs or carry smaller loads. Instead of things shifting all over the place, the insert keeps it all in one spot.
Materials and Design
Chris used Baltic birch plywood for this build, a material known for strength and dimensional stability. Its durability makes it an excellent choice for truck bed use where wear and exposure are common.
The design is simple and modular, allowing for easy adjustments depending on your truck’s size. It can be modified to fit different makes and models without changing the core structure.
Building the Main Shell
The project starts with cutting plywood panels to create the shell of the insert. These panels are joined at 90-degree angles and fastened with screws to form a strong, box-like frame.
This shell becomes the base unit that sits inside the bed of the truck. It’s large enough to hold bags and gear, but small enough to be removable if needed.
To improve functionality, Chris adds a beveled lip to the front edge. This simple piece prevents items from rolling out when the tailgate is opened.
Installing Functional Hooks
One issue Chris noticed with many trucks is the lack of grocery bag hooks. To solve that, he added hooks along the rear panel of the insert to hold bags upright during transit.
These hooks are mounted into plywood blocks for added strength and durability. They’re positioned to be easy to reach while still holding the weight of a fully loaded bag.
Creating Stops to Prevent Shifting
To keep the insert in place while driving, Chris builds positive stops out of half-inch plywood. These stops are small but effective and help the insert stay snug against the side of the truck bed.
They also prevent the box from shifting backward when loading or unloading. It’s a simple solution that adds a big boost to the usability of the storage unit.
Finishing the Insert
Once assembly is complete, Chris applies a coat of primer to prep the wood. He follows this with a truck bed lining spray, which provides long-lasting protection from moisture and abrasion.
This finish also gives the insert a clean, professional look that matches the truck interior. It’s rugged enough to handle everyday use without showing wear.
After the coating is dry, Chris re-installs the hooks into their final positions. He uses a little lubricant to help thread them cleanly into place, making the process fast and secure.
Final Installation in the Truck
With all components finished, the insert is loaded into the truck bed and aligned with the side rails. It fits snugly while still allowing easy access to the full bed area.
The end result is an organized, easy-to-clean storage solution. It keeps small loads from shifting around and helps you make better use of your truck’s space.
A Custom Fit for Any Truck
Chris designed this project for his own truck, but the concept can be modified for other vehicles. With accurate measurements and a little planning, you can tailor the insert to your exact needs.
Whether you’re running errands or carrying gear for weekend trips, this insert adds practical functionality. It turns an empty truck bed into a more usable space for everyday life.
Want to See the Full Build?
Please support Chris by visiting his website here: https://www.aglimpseinside.org