If you use your ute for work, the tray dimensions matter more than the engine specs. A 50mm difference in width between the arches can be the difference between fitting a pallet flat or having to angle it. We pulled the manufacturer-published tray specs for every ute sold in Australia.
Dual Cab Tray Comparison
Dual cabs are the most popular config. Shorter tray than a single cab, but you get rear seats. Here's how they stack up.
| Ute | Tray Length | Tray Width | Between Arches | Depth | Payload |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Ranger XLT | 1,553mm | 1,560mm | 1,215mm | 530mm | 1,003kg |
| Toyota HiLux SR5 | 1,520mm | 1,540mm | 1,165mm | 505mm | 925kg |
| Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain | 1,535mm | 1,530mm | 1,175mm | 510mm | 965kg |
| Mitsubishi Triton GSR | 1,520mm | 1,520mm | 1,100mm | 480mm | 895kg |
| Nissan Navara ST-X | 1,503mm | 1,560mm | 1,120mm | 475mm | 940kg |
| GWM Cannon | 1,500mm | 1,510mm | 1,080mm | 470mm | 810kg |
The Pallet Test
A standard Australian pallet is 1,165mm x 1,165mm. To fit one flat between the wheel arches, you need at least 1,165mm of clearance. Here's who passes:
- Ford Ranger (1,215mm) - fits with 50mm to spare. Easiest to load.
- Isuzu D-Max (1,175mm) - fits with 10mm clearance. Tight but works.
- Toyota HiLux (1,165mm) - technically fits but zero margin. Real world, you'll scrape.
- Triton, Navara, GWM - won't fit flat. Need to angle the pallet or go single cab.
If you regularly carry pallets, the Ranger is the clear winner for dual cab tray width.
Why Payload Matters More Than Towing
Everyone talks about towing capacity (3,500kg for most utes) but payload is what limits you day to day. Payload is how much weight you can carry IN the ute, including passengers, tools, and anything in the tray.
The D-Max leads at 965kg. The GWM Cannon trails at 810kg. That 155kg difference is like carrying one extra person's worth of tools. If you load up heavily for work, check payload, not towing.
Single Cab vs Dual Cab Tray Length
For tradies who need maximum tray space and don't need rear seats:
| Config | Tray Length (approx) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single Cab | 2,300-2,400mm | Builders, plumbers, fleet work |
| Extra/Space Cab | 1,800-2,000mm | Solo tradies who sometimes carry a mate |
| Dual Cab | 1,500-1,560mm | Family + weekend work |
Single cab trays are about 50% longer than dual cab. If your ute is purely a work vehicle, single cab gives you way more usable space.
Tray Accessories to Consider
- Tub liner - protects the tray from scratches and dents. $300-500 fitted. Worth it for any work ute.
- Tonneau cover - keeps gear dry and secure. Soft covers from $400, hard lids from $1,500.
- Headboard/bulkhead - stops cargo from sliding into the cabin during hard braking. Some come factory fitted.
- Ladder rack - if you carry long materials. Make sure it doesn't exceed your payload capacity.
All tray dimensions are manufacturer-published specifications. Compare any ute on CarSorted to see the full spec sheet including tray measurements.
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Disclaimer: All information in this article was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (3 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Specifications, government incentives, and rebates can change without notice. Always verify details with the manufacturer or relevant authority before making a purchase decision. Running cost estimates are based on average Australian driving conditions at 15,000 km/year. All opinions are editorial and independent. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations or rankings.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 3 April 2026
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