Buyer’s Guide

The Tradie’s Ute Fit-Out Guide: Tray, Canopy, Toolboxes & Racks

A tradie’s ute is a mobile workshop. The right fit-out turns a bare cab-chassis into a setup that secures your gear, keeps it organised, carries your loads safely and lasts the life of the vehicle. Here’s how to plan it — without buying anything you don’t need.

Updated 13 June 2026 · By Duratray Transport Equipment

Start with the tray

The tray is the platform everything else mounts to. For most tradies, an aluminium tray is the right call — lighter (preserves payload), no rust, easier to repair than you think. Oz Panther is the most popular trade-grade build; step up to Elite for heavier daily use.

Add a canopy (or don’t)

If you carry expensive tools and want lock-up, weatherproof storage — a canopy pays for itself in stolen-tool insurance excesses you never have to claim. Choose a bolt-on canopy for flexibility, or a chassis-mount service body for maximum internal space. See our canopy guide.

Toolboxes & storage

Above-body toolboxes for the daily tools you reach for constantly.
Under-body toolboxes to keep your tray deck clear.
Rolla drawers inside the canopy for small parts and consumables.
Under-tray lockers for the long valuables (rails, fishing rods, gear).

Carry the awkward stuff: racks & restraints

Ladder/headboard rack for ladders, pipe, timber.
Tie-downs and tracks for safe load restraint.
Tonneau cover over the open deck if you’re carrying mixed loads.

Lighting, power and the finishing touches

12V LED work lights — game-changer after dark.
Safer access steps — small thing, big difference over a career.
Power outlets in the canopy for charging tools.

Build it once

The best fit-outs are planned and built together — not bolted on bit by bit over years. Get a single quote for the whole setup, fit it in one workshop visit, and you’ll have a tighter, better-looking, longer-lasting result. Send us your ute and your trade and we’ll spec the lot.

Frequently asked questions

What should a tradie’s ute fit-out include?

At a minimum: tray, lock-up canopy or above-body toolbox, ladder/headboard rack, tie-downs and 12V work lighting. From there, drawers, water tank, internal fit-out and more storage as the work demands.

Aluminium or steel for a trade ute?

Aluminium for almost every tradie — lighter, no rust, plenty strong for trade loads. Steel for civil and heavy industrial only.

Lock-up canopy or toolboxes?

A canopy gives the most secure, weatherproof storage; a couple of big lockable toolboxes are cheaper and keep the deck flexible. Many tradies run a canopy plus an under-body toolbox.

How much does a full tradie fit-out cost?

Big range — a basic tray + toolbox + rack can be modest; a full alloy tray + canopy + drawers + lighting + power is a substantial build. Tell us your trade and ute and we’ll quote it.

Can the whole fit-out be done in one workshop visit?

Yes — that’s the best way. Planning the build holistically gives a tighter result than bolting on bits over years.

Can I claim the fit-out on tax?

If it’s used for business, generally yes — and a tray fit-out is often eligible for instant asset write-off depending on rules in force. Check with your accountant.

What about plumbers / electricians / refrig techs specifically?

Each trade has slightly different gear and weight patterns. We’ve fitted out hundreds of utes per trade — tell us yours and we’ll recommend the kit that suits.