Tray or tub, which is best for you?

Tray or tub? Whether you’re a tradie who climbs the toughest off-road tracks or a courier who hauls cargo through the city, we’ll break down the facts to help you make the best decision.

Tubs and trays, what are the real differences?

Ute tubs come standard on the HiLux, which makes them a cost-effective option from the outset. They’re integrated into the vehicle’s bodywork with an open-top, solid sides, and a drop-down tailgate.

Ute trays are available in aluminum or steel. You can buy them at the dealership, or add them later. They have collapsible side walls which can give them more versatility when it comes to storage.

Before you decide, it’s wise to consider a three crucial questions:

What loads will you transport?

Your HiLux will be your workhorse when it comes to cargo. But every workhorse is different.

Tubs offer rear access, deeper side walls and – once fitted with a durable HiLux Ute Tub Liner – include extra securing anchor points. So they’re great for taller loads and loose materials. Toyota Genuine Soft Tonneau Tub Covers can easily clip over the top of your tub to protect your cargo from the elements. Whatever you’re transporting, keep in mind that a tub’s rear wheel housings protrude into the cargo bay slightly, which reduces the load floor surface area.

Trays have a flat bed that’s slightly wider than the ute cab. The collapsable side walls provide load access from the rear and sides. So trays are particularly popular with farmers and tradies, who often need to transport wider, bulkier loads and flat materials. You can also always clip on a Toyota Genuine Soft Tonneau Tray Cover for extra cargo protection.

What storage do you need?

Toyota Genuine Trays can be fitted with a 1500mm or 2100mm Trundle Drawer that slides neatly under your HiLux tray. It’s made from heavy-duty galvanised steel and provides an extra 100kgs of storage. The incremental locking system lets you secure different tools, depending on when you need them. So you can maximise load without sacrificing worksite security. Meanwhile the flat bed can provide an open space for whatever storage extra solutions suit you best.

HiLux tubs can be fitted with front and side utility boxes, both of which are water resistant, lockable and custom-fit for Genuine Tubs. Toyota Genuine Hard Tonneau Covers are connected to your ute’s central locking. If you’re after more space, Toyota Genuine Canopies provide extra security and storage. This can prove to be essential for plumbers, electricians and anyone needing watertight transport for tools and materials.

Where will you go?

Tubs and trays have the same departure angles, so they’re both ready for serious off-roading. Choosing a tub means you also have the option of attaching a Toyota Genuine Canopy, which is a particularly popular option with campers. You can easily fit Aero Roof Racks for extra storage as well Canopy Flymesh and Lift-Up-Canopy Windows to let the breeze in when you’ve found that perfect spot.

Toyota Genuine Trays are developed in tandem with the HiLux range, just like the tubs. They work symbiotically with every element of your HiLux from the chassis and suspension to the styling, to meet our standards. They’re extensively tested in Japan and Australia on corrugated and broken roads, until we’re sure they can withstand the harshest conditions.

Tubs are colour-matched, so they’re great if you need to have a consistent look or feel for a business logo or bodywrap. Toyota Genuine Steel Trays can be colour-matched too.