DECKED for Trucks: The Original Game Changer

The DECKED truck bed system is where it all began. It transforms your open truck bed into a secure, organized, and weatherproof storage solution. The core of the system is a robust, modular deck that sits above your truck bed floor, creating two full-length, lockable drawers. These drawers slide out smoothly, providing easy access to your tools, gear, or anything else you need to transport. The deck itself is made from high-strength, impact-resistant polymer, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use and the elements. It’s engineered to be incredibly durable, capable of supporting significant weight, and it’s designed to be a permanent, yet removable, fixture in your truck.

What makes the DECKED truck system so revolutionary is its ability to keep your gear secure and out of sight. No more worrying about items being stolen from an open truck bed. The lockable drawers provide peace of mind, and the weatherproof construction ensures your equipment stays dry and protected. Furthermore, the system maintains full use of your truck bed's width, allowing you to carry larger items on top of the deck when needed. This dual functionality – secure storage below and open hauling space above – is a key differentiator.

DECKED for Vans: Expanding the Storage Universe

Recognizing the immense storage needs of tradespeople and adventurers, DECKED expanded its innovative design to the van market. The DECKED van system offers a similar, yet tailored, solution for the unique cargo spaces of commercial and recreational vans. These systems are designed to fit specific van models, ensuring a snug and efficient integration. Like the truck system, the van version provides secure, lockable drawers that maximize vertical space and keep your tools and equipment organized and protected.

The van system is particularly valuable for businesses that rely on their vans for daily operations. Imagine having all your tools neatly organized, easily accessible, and secure, no matter where your work takes you. This translates to increased efficiency, reduced downtime searching for tools, and a more professional appearance. For van lifers and recreational users, it means having a well-organized and secure space for camping gear, sports equipment, or anything else that fuels your adventures. The DECKED van system is a testament to the company's commitment to providing versatile and intelligent storage solutions across a range of vehicles.

Initial Impressions: What's Inside the Box?

Upon opening the primary box, you'll likely be greeted by a collection of large, molded polymer panels, metal hardware, and perhaps some smaller accessory components. The sheer size of some of these pieces might seem daunting at first. However, take a moment to observe the shapes, the pre-drilled holes, and the interlocking features. DECKED has meticulously designed these panels so that they are not interchangeable in a way that would lead to incorrect assembly. Each major panel has a specific purpose and a specific place in the final structure.

You might notice that the components are often labeled or have unique shapes that hint at their orientation. This is your first clue. The material itself – a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) – is incredibly durable and lightweight, which is a good sign of the quality you're about to experience. Don't be afraid to lay out all the pieces on a clean surface. This visual inventory is crucial for understanding the scope of the project and identifying the major structural elements.

The Component Breakdown: Identifying the Pieces

Let's break down the typical components you'll find. The core of the DECKED system consists of two primary side panels, a front panel, and a rear panel. These form the main structure that sits within your truck bed or van. You'll also find the drawer components: the drawer bases, drawer fronts, and the drawer slides. The drawer slides are particularly important and are designed to attach to the main structure and the drawer bases.

Then there's the hardware. This usually includes a variety of bolts, nuts, washers, and sometimes specialized brackets. The hardware is typically organized in a way that makes sense for the assembly sequence. For instance, you might find a bag of bolts specifically for attaching the side panels to the front and rear panels. The key here is to look for patterns. Notice how the holes align on different panels. This alignment is your roadmap. The DECKED system is designed so that the holes on one panel will naturally line up with the holes on another when they are in the correct orientation.

You'll also find the deck panels themselves, which form the top surface of your system. These are often large, flat pieces that will eventually sit atop the assembled structure. Pay attention to any subtle differences in these panels, as they might have specific mounting points or orientations. The beauty of the DECKED system lies in its modularity and the fact that each piece has a purpose and a place, making the identification process more of a logical puzzle than a guessing game.

Leveraging Visual Cues: The Power of Observation

Your eyes are your best tool here. Examine the shape of each panel. Notice the contours, the edges, and the placement of holes. DECKED components are often asymmetrical, meaning they only fit correctly in one orientation. For example, a side panel might have a specific curve that matches the contour of your truck bed or van. The drawer slides will have a clear in and out direction, and the mounting holes will be precisely placed to align with pre-drilled holes on the main structure.

Look for any embossed logos or markings. These can sometimes indicate the top or bottom, front or back. The hardware bags themselves might offer clues. If you find a bag with longer bolts, it's likely for connecting thicker components or for areas that require more structural integrity. Shorter bolts are often for attaching accessories or lighter-duty connections. The key is to be patient and observant. Don't rush. Take your time to understand how each piece is meant to interact with the others.

Logical Assembly Flow: Thinking Like an Engineer

The assembly process for the DECKED system follows a logical progression, much like building with LEGOs, but on a much larger scale. You start with the foundation and build upwards. Typically, this involves assembling the main frame of the system first.

Step 1: The Base Structure. You'll likely begin by connecting the side panels to the front and rear panels. Look for the interlocking features or the pre-drilled holes that align. Use the appropriate hardware – often bolts that thread into integrated nuts or captive nuts within the polymer. Ensure these connections are snug but don't overtighten initially, as you might need a little play to align subsequent pieces.

Step 2: Drawer Slide Installation. Once the main frame is somewhat assembled, you'll typically install the drawer slides. These are usually mounted to the interior walls of the side panels. Again, observe the orientation of the slides. They are designed to slide smoothly in one direction. The mounting holes on the slides will correspond to pre-drilled holes on the DECKED system's frame. Use the specified hardware for this step.

Step 3: The Deck Panels. With the frame and drawer slides in place, you'll then position the deck panels on top. These often have specific mounting points that align with the frame. They might be secured with bolts or clips. Ensure they sit flush and are properly seated.

Step 4: Drawer Assembly. The drawers themselves are usually assembled separately. This involves connecting the drawer sides, front, and back, and then attaching the drawer base. The drawer slides will then engage with the slides mounted on the frame. Test the drawer's movement as you assemble it to ensure it's smooth and aligned.

The beauty of this process is that the components are designed to fit together in a specific order. If a piece doesn't seem to fit, it's likely in the wrong orientation or you're trying to attach it too early in the sequence. Re-evaluate your steps and look for visual cues.

Common Assembly Pitfalls to Avoid

Even with intuitive design, a few common mistakes can slow you down. The most frequent is forcing a piece that doesn't fit. This usually means it's oriented incorrectly. Always double-check the alignment of holes and the shape of the components.

Another pitfall is overtightening hardware too early. While you want a secure connection, leaving a little flexibility can help when aligning subsequent pieces. Once the entire system is assembled, go back and tighten all hardware securely.

Forgetting to install the drawer slides before the deck panels is another common oversight. The slides need to be mounted to the frame, and the deck panels often cover these mounting points. If you realize you've missed this step, you'll have to partially disassemble. Pay attention to the order of operations, even without a manual.

Finally, ensure you're using the correct hardware for each step. While DECKED often simplifies this, there might be slight variations in bolt lengths or types for different connections. Refer back to the hardware bags and their intended uses.

How Long Does it Take to Install DECKED?

This is a common question, and the answer varies depending on your experience level and the specific vehicle. For someone who is comfortable with basic tools and has a good understanding of mechanical assembly, the installation can often be completed in 2-4 hours. If you're tackling it for the first time, especially without instructions, you might add an hour or two for careful observation and problem-solving. The DECKED system is designed for a straightforward installation, and once you understand the logic, it moves quite quickly. The key is not to rush and to ensure each component is correctly aligned before tightening.

Is DECKED Worth the Money?

This is subjective, but for many users, the answer is a resounding yes. The DECKED system offers significant value in terms of organization, security, and durability. It transforms a chaotic truck bed or van cargo area into a highly functional workspace. The ability to keep tools and gear secure, dry, and easily accessible can save time and prevent damage, which translates to cost savings in the long run. The robust construction means it's built to last, often outlasting the vehicle it's installed in. If you rely on your vehicle for work or recreation and value efficiency and organization, the investment in a DECKED system is often considered well worth it.

Can You Remove DECKED?

Yes, the DECKED system is designed to be removable. While it's built for a secure, long-term installation, it can be taken out if needed. This is particularly useful if you plan to sell your vehicle or if you need to revert your truck bed or van to its original configuration for a specific purpose. The removal process is essentially the reverse of the installation. You'll need to unbolt the main frame components and the drawer slides. The modular design makes this process manageable, though it will require some time and effort.

What is the Weight Capacity of DECKED?

The DECKED system is engineered for serious utility. The deck itself has an impressive weight capacity, typically rated at 2,000 lbs (907 kg) evenly distributed. This means you can load heavy equipment, lumber, or other materials directly onto the deck without worry. The drawers also have a substantial capacity, usually around 200 lbs (90 kg) per drawer, allowing you to store a significant amount of gear. This robust capacity is a key reason why DECKED is so popular among professionals and serious hobbyists.

How Do You Clean a DECKED System?

Cleaning a DECKED system is refreshingly simple, thanks to its durable, non-porous polymer construction. For routine cleaning, a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth or sponge and mild soap is usually sufficient. For tougher grime or spills, you can use a more robust cleaner, but it's advisable to avoid harsh solvents or abrasive materials that could potentially damage the finish. The drawers can be pulled out for easier access, and the entire system can be hosed down if necessary, as it is designed to be weatherproof. Just ensure that any water is allowed to drain properly and that the system is dry before closing the drawers or loading items back in.

Drawer Organization Strategies

The two large drawers are a blank canvas for organization. Think about what you typically store. For tools, consider using drawer organizers, tool rolls, or custom-cut foam inserts to keep everything in its place. This prevents items from shifting during transit and makes finding what you need a breeze. For camping or recreational gear, use smaller bins or bags to compartmentalize items like cooking supplies, first-aid kits, or clothing. Labeling these bins can further enhance efficiency.

The DECKED system also offers optional accessories like the DECKED Drawerganizer, which is a smaller, removable bin that fits within the main drawers, perfect for smaller items like gloves, tape measures, or charging cables. The DECKED Crossbox is another excellent addition, a portable toolbox that slides into the drawers, allowing you to easily transport a subset of your tools to a job site.

Accessory Integration: Making it Yours

DECKED offers a range of accessories designed to complement the core system. The aforementioned Drawerganizer and Crossbox are prime examples. Beyond these, consider the DECKED Bottle Opener/Bottle Cap Catcher, a small but handy addition that mounts to the side of the system. For those who need to secure larger items on top of the deck, the DECKED system is compatible with various tie-down systems and cargo nets.

Think about your specific use case. If you're a contractor, you might want to integrate a small workbench vise or specialized tool holders. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, consider adding a system for organizing fishing tackle, camping cookware, or even a portable power station. The DECKED system's robust construction provides a stable platform for many custom modifications, though always ensure any additions don't compromise the structural integrity or safety of the system.

Maximizing Payload and Access

The DECKED system is designed to maximize your vehicle's payload capacity while improving access. The drawers slide out smoothly, bringing your gear to you, eliminating the need to climb into your truck bed or van. This is a significant ergonomic advantage, especially for those who frequently access their stored items.

When loading items onto the deck, remember the weight capacity. Distribute heavy items evenly to maintain balance. For items that need to be secured, utilize the tie-down points that are often integrated into the system or can be added as accessories. The DECKED system effectively creates a flat, organized surface that makes loading and unloading more efficient. Consider how you can arrange your gear to take advantage of the full depth and width of the drawers and the deck space.