Ute Tray Measurements: Guide to Choosing the Right Fit

When it comes to selecting the perfect ute, ute tray measurements play a crucial role. Whether you’re a tradie who needs to store tools and materials or an off-road adventurer looking to load up gear, understanding the actual space available on your ute can help prevent frustrating surprises.

With so many different models on the market, it’s important to know how dimensions such as length, width, depth and the distance between the wheel arches can impact usability. In this detailed guide, we break down the tray and tub sizes of popular utes sold in Australia, explain why these measurements matter, and help you decide which setup suits your needs.

Why Ute Tray Measurements Matter

Not all utes are created equal. While many dual-cab pickups look similar from the outside, their cargo areas can vary significantly, especially when it comes to how much gear you can carry.

Tub Length and Ute Size

Longer tubs generally mean a longer vehicle overall, which may influence your parking and garage access. Most dual-cab utes fall between 5.2 and 5.4 metres in total length, but even small differences in tub length can impact what gear fits easily.

Tub Height and Loading Usability

The tub height (or depth) affects how much you can stack inside. However, deeper tubs may make reaching over and securing your load harder — a key consideration for solo operators.

Width and Wheel Arch Gaps

Tub width, particularly the space between the wheel arches, is a critical dimension for tradies. The Australian standard pallet measures 1165mm x 1165mm, while a Euro pallet is 1200mm x 800mm. If your load requirements involve forklifting, only utes with a space between the arches above ~1220mm (like the Ranger and Amarok) will accommodate a full-size Australian pallet flat.

Standard Ute Tray Sizes in Australia

While there is no universal standard, the typical ute tray size for dual-cab models falls within these ranges:

• Length: 1500mm to 1575mm
• Width: 1500mm to 1650mm
• Depth: 480mm to 570mm
• Between arches: 1085mm to 1225mm

Many manufacturers also offer long-tray variants or allow for aftermarket modifications, particularly with cab-chassis models.

Typical Tub Dimensions by Ute Model

The table below compares typical tub dimensions across Australia’s top-selling dual-cab utes. These measurements can help you determine which tray best matches your trade or lifestyle needs.

Note: Measurements are based on 2023–2024 dual-cab variants and may vary slightly depending on trim level or model year.

Popular Ute Models and Their Tray Sizes

Let’s look at how key models stack up for tray dimensions.

Toyota Hilux

The Hilux dual-cab tray measures 1570mm long, 1645mm wide, and 481mm deep (depending on variant). The wheel arch gap is 1105mm, which means it cannot accommodate a standard pallet flat on the tray floor, but it remains a reliable option for general use and moderate loads.

Isuzu D-Max

The D-Max offers a practical configuration with 1570mm length, 1530mm width, 1122mm between arches, and 490mm depth — a strong middle-ground choice for trade or recreational use.

Volkswagen Amarok

The Amarok stands out with 1222mm between the wheel arches, making it one of the few dual cabs capable of carrying a standard Australian pallet flat. It also features a 1555mm length and 1620mm width, offering excellent usable space.

Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger tray is among the most versatile, with 1547mm length, 1584mm width, and a spacious 1224mm between the arches. It shares pallet-carrying ability with the Amarok and is favoured by trades and fleets for this reason.

Long Tray and Space Cab Options

Some utes go beyond the norm with extended tub options, offering near space-cab capacity with dual-cab interiors.

LDV T60 Mega Tub

• Length: 1760mm
• Width: 1510mm
• Between arches: 1131mm
• Depth: 530mm

The longer tub adds 310mm to the wheelbase (3470mm total), making it one of the roomiest options on the market.

SsangYong Musso XLV

• Length: 1625mm
• Width: 1570mm
• Between arches: 1140mm
• Depth: 570mm

Its extended tray and slightly shorter wheelbase (3210mm) offer additional cargo room without sacrificing manoeuvrability.

Beyond Dual Cabs: Full-Size Utes and Payload Trade-Offs

Need even more room? American trucks like the Ram 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado offer substantial tub dimensions:

Ram 1500

• 1712mm long
• 1687mm wide (or 1270mm with Ram Boxes)
• 1285mm between arches
• 509mm deep

Chevrolet Silverado

• 1776mm long
• 1814mm wide
• 1286mm between arches
• 569mm deep

These utes offer huge cargo areas — easily handling IBCs, pallets, and long gear — but their payload capacities are often limited compared to locally available options. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before overloading.

Customising Your Tray: Tailoring Function to Fit

Not every ute buyer finds what they need in a standard tub or off-the-shelf tray. If your work requires unique functionality — or your lifestyle demands flexibility — a custom tray setup may be the solution.

Material Choices

• Aluminium trays are lightweight, rust-resistant, and ideal for improving payload without compromising durability.
• Steel trays are heavier but extremely strong, making them ideal for heavy-duty work environments.

Canopy Integration

 

If you plan to add a canopy system, choosing the right ute tray measurements and mounting points is critical. A well-matched setup supports:

• Half, full, or dog box canopies
• Fridge slides and drawer systems
• Rooftop tents or ladder racks
• 12V electrical integration
• Dust and water sealing for sensitive gear

With ACT Canopy, every tray can be built with canopy integration in mind — whether you’re setting up for trade work or touring off-grid.

Ute Trays for Different Industries

Ute trays aren’t just a platform for gear — they’re a functional workspace, a secure storage unit, and sometimes even a mobile base for business. Here’s how tray setups vary across key industries:

Trades and Construction

For tradies like electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, efficiency and security are vital. Ideal features include:

• Lockable toolboxes and undertray drawers
• Ladder racks or conduit holders
• Tie-down points for bulky materials
• Half canopies with open rear access
• Checker plate flooring for durability

Every tool has its place, reducing time spent searching and improving on-site productivity.

Mining and Industrial

Utes in mining or high-risk zones must meet stringent safety and load compliance standards. Key features often include:

• Heavy-duty steel construction
• Reflective safety tape and ID plates
• Mounts for fire extinguishers and spill kits
• Site-specific signage or tool storage
• High-clearance trays with reinforced frame mounts

These setups are built tough to withstand rough terrain and constant daily wear.

Agriculture and Farming

Farmers and station workers need trays that offer space, flexibility, and ruggedness. Popular inclusions:

• Drop-side trays for easy loading
• Tie-down rails for fencing gear and equipment
• Space for water tanks, feed, or chemical drums
• Weatherproof underbody storage
• Compatibility with cage frames or livestock dividers

These trays help keep operations flowing across unpredictable terrain and varying weather.

Recreation and Touring

Touring rigs focus on self-sufficiency and modularity. Touring tray setups may include:

• Full canopies with drawer systems
• Dual battery and solar panels
• Fridge slides and water tanks
• Roof racks and rooftop tents
• Gas bottle and jerry can holders

They’re built for weekend getaways, off-grid travel, and long-distance touring — blending comfort with capacity.

How to Measure Your Ute Tray Accurately

Whether you're replacing a factory tub, upgrading to a custom tray, or just checking dimensions before making a purchase, it's essential to know how to properly measure a ute tray.

Step-by-Step Guide

• Length – Measure from the inside edge of the front wall (closest to the cab) to the inside edge of the tailgate (or rear tray lip).
• Width – Measure the total internal width and the gap between wheel arches to assess item fit.
• Depth (Height) – From the base of the tray to the top edge of the sidewall.
• Diagonal Measurement – Useful when fitting drawers, slide-outs, or internal accessories.

Tools You’ll Need

• Tape measure (2m+)
• Spirit level (optional)
• Notepad or phone
• A second person (if measuring larger trays)

Getting these measurements right gives you confidence when purchasing accessories or commissioning a custom build.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ute Trays

1. Can I fit a standard pallet in my ute?

Only select utes like the Ranger and Amarok offer enough between-arch width for a standard pallet. For others, you may need to angle the pallet or use a custom tray.

2. What’s the difference between a tray and a tub?

A tub is factory-fitted and typically shaped with curves to match vehicle styling. A tray is a flat-deck platform, usually found on cab-chassis models, offering more space and modification flexibility.

3. How does the tray length affect towing and handling?

Longer trays increase load volume but may affect turning radius and off-road angles. Always factor in overhang and weight distribution when towing.

4. Should I choose a cab-chassis or pickup?

If you prioritise load flexibility and accessories, a cab-chassis is ideal. If you prefer an integrated factory look with moderate load needs, a pickup may suffice.

Match the Tray to Your Trade

Understanding ute tray measurements is about more than just numbers — it’s about ensuring your vehicle matches your lifestyle or trade requirements. From dual cab tray size to tub length and width, every dimension plays a part in usability, safety, and convenience.

Before purchasing, carefully consider whether a standard tub suits your load types, or whether a custom tray will deliver better results. Whether you’re comparing Hilux dual cab tray dimensions, Amarok tub dimensions, or planning a custom setup with a ute with tray, let real measurements guide your decision.

Ready to Upgrade Your Ute?

At ACT Canopy, we offer expertly engineered ute trays, canopies, and accessories built to match your exact trade or travel needs. Whether you're hauling pallets or heading off-road, we’ll help you create a fit-for-purpose solution that works as hard as you do.

Contact us today to explore tailored tray and canopy systems that deliver strength, space, and smart design.