Buyer’s Guide
Ute Toolboxes & Storage: The Complete Buyer’s Guide
A well-thought-out storage set-up turns a bare ute tray into a proper mobile workshop. Here’s how to choose the right mix of under-tray toolboxes, above-body boxes, drawers, lockers and water tanks for your job.
Updated 13 June 2026 · By Duratray Transport Equipment
Under-tray vs above-body toolboxes
Under-body toolboxes bolt beneath the tray and free up your deck for loads. Above-body toolboxes sit on the tray for easy reach and bigger capacity. Most trades run a mix of both.
| Storage type | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Under-body toolbox | Keeping deck clear | Limited size; sits low |
| Above-body toolbox | Big tools, easy reach | Takes some deck space |
| Rolla drawer | Heavy / small parts | Best in a canopy or under-tray |
| Under-tray locker | Long valuables (tools, fishing gear) | One long thin compartment |
Drawers, lockers & water tanks
- Rolla drawers hold heavy tools and pull out for easy access — great inside canopies.
- Under-tray lockers use the long thin space between the chassis rails for valuables.
- Water tanks mount neatly and keep clean water on board for site jobs.
Match the storage to the tray
Box size is constrained by your tray length, dropside height and chassis clearance. Browse our above-body and under-body toolboxes, add drawers and lockers, or request a quote for a tailored fit-out.
Frequently asked questions
Under-tray or above-body toolbox — which is better?
Under-tray boxes keep your deck clear; above-body boxes give you the most capacity and easiest access. Most trades use a combination — under-tray for spare parts, above-body for daily tools.
What size ute toolbox do I need?
Pick the box length to suit your tray and your tools. Measure the deck space you want to keep free, the dropside height (for above-body) and chassis clearance (for under-body).
Are aluminium toolboxes better than steel?
Aluminium is lighter and rust-free — best for most trades. Steel is cheaper and dent-resistant for very heavy use. Most Duratray toolboxes are alloy for the weight saving.
How do you secure a ute toolbox?
Quality locks and proper bolt-down points matter. We supply lockable toolboxes and fit them with grade fixings so they stay put and stay secure.
Can I add a water tank with my toolboxes?
Yes. Headboard-mounted and under-tray water tanks integrate neatly with most fit-outs.
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