How to design the ultimate drawer system for your ute

Your ute should be as unique as you are. And one of the best ways to create the ultimate workhorse is to install a flexible drawer system that protects your gear from the rough and tumble of the road. Better yet, ute drawers keep your cargo safe and organised, so you can live, play, work, and travel with total peace of mind.

If you are ready to create a drawer system for your ute, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our guide to custom ute drawers.

Top features of high-performance ute drawers

Before you even think about configuring your ute drawer system, start with the basic features. Be sure to consider the following:

Construction quality

You wouldn’t install a poor-quality ute canopy. You wouldn’t drive a vehicle known to give up when the going gets tough. So don’t settle for ute drawers that boast a below-industry-standard construction.

For unsurpassed strength you can depend on, we recommend a galvanised steel chassis, glass-reinforced polypropylene top panels, hard-wearing carpet liners, protective aluminium top edges, and stainless-steel latches with slam-shut functionality.

Practical design

Design isn’t all about good looks. Details like marine-grade, moisture-resistant carpet can be the difference between a dodgy draw and years of hard use.

When assessing the design of your ute drawers, be sure to look for a sealed runner system. You don’t want your drawers rattling around – this puts your cargo at risk of damage and is downright annoying.

Finally, keep weight in mind. Ideally, you want a drawer solution that’s lightweight yet strong. That way, you can carry more and worry less.

Straightforward storage

It’s a ute, not a sewing basket. You don’t need one-hundred-and-one different compartments. You need straightforward storage that makes sense on-site and off-road. Of course, what works for one person may be too basic or too fussy for another. Consider your needs, and then err on the side of simple.

Vehicle compatibility

This is a big one. If you’ve found the perfect drawer system, but it isn’t compatible with the make of your ute, forget it. Do your research now and save yourself the headache.

Designing custom ute drawers

Now that you’ve decided on a brand of drawers that tick all the boxes, it’s time to design your drawer system. The skies are pretty much the limit here, but it’s worth reviewing the following considerations:

Configuration and dimensions

Do you want fewer large drawers or more smaller drawers? There’s no right answer – it comes down to personal preference. Just ensure you double-check the dimensions of the drawers and build a configuration that fits your vehicle perfectly.

Load ratings

What do you need to carry? Is it super heavy or light enough that you can get away with a lower load rating?

Ute drawers are not indestructible, so be sure to take note of their load ratings. Also, keep in mind the weight of the drawers themselves, as this will affect your overall storage capacity.

Latches

Drawers are excellent for transforming a mess of gear into a neat, organised, work-ready setup. But there’s more to ute drawers and compartments – they can revolutionise the security of your cargo.

If safety is important to you, opt for a drawer system with key-lockable latches. That way, you can enjoy quick and easy access to your tools and cargo without stressing. Win-win.

Build your perfect ute drawer setup

A custom ute can change the way you work and play for the better. Whatever your needs, you can find a drawer system that helps you get more out of your vehicle. Shop our ute tub drawers today.

Published at: 13-02-2022