A ute’s rear tray does more than just haul gear. It’s a workbench, a mobile storage room, and a weekend escape launcher. With the right setup, that space becomes even more valuable. That’s where tub racks and roller shutters come in. On their own, they each serve a purpose. But together, they form a smart and functional duo that makes daily use smoother and more efficient.
Built for the Same Space
At first glance, a roller shutter and a tub rack seem like they’d get in each other’s way. One rolls along the tray edges, and the other usually mounts just above it. But with the right design, they line up neatly.
Many tub racks are made to clamp onto the inner or outer lips of the tub. That leaves the roller shutter’s tracks clear and untouched. The shutter still slides freely, and the rack holds firm. It’s about smart design, not just squeezing two things into one spot.
Strength Without Interference
One key concern is weight. A tub rack for roller shutter must carry gear without pressing down. That’s why most quality racks are mounted to the tub itself, not the cover. They use independent mounts that avoid contact with the roller surface. This setup means the shutter can open and close without rubbing or catching.
Strong steel or alloy racks often feature adjustable legs. These let owners fine-tune the height. When done right, the rack sits high enough to clear the shutter’s movement and still stays low for loading ease.
Everyday Use Made Simpler
One of the best things about combining a rack and roller is access. The shutter keeps gear covered, while the rack handles anything that doesn’t fit below. That means fewer decisions when packing. No need to unload bikes or swags just to reach what’s inside. Just slide the roller shutter open underneath, and everything stays safe and dry. A few things this combo is perfect for include:
- Camping gear split between rack and tray
- Tools stored below, ladders up top
- Surfboards above, recovery gear underneath
- Shade awnings on the side, drawers in the tub
Security and Weather Protection
A roller shutter does more than hide cargo. It locks the tray down and protects it from the elements. When paired with a tub rack, it still does exactly that.
The rack doesn’t block access to the tailgate or interfere with locking mechanisms. That means trays stay secure without giving up load space on top. This is especially useful for tradies or anyone who leaves gear in the ute. Tools can stay dry and locked under the shutter while bulky items ride above.
Dust and rain are also kept out better. Some racks come with side sealing kits or fit flush to reduce gaps where water might sneak in. That added weather resistance can make a big difference on long drives or wet workdays.
Easy Fitment and Flexibility
Not every rack fits every shutter, but many brands design them to work in sync. Tub racks that bolt into factory mounting points or clamp securely to the lip are ideal. They avoid the need to drill holes or modify the shutter housing.
Some owners go with modular racks. These allow users to change heights, remove bars, or add extras like roof tents or bike holders. As long as the rack doesn’t interfere with shutter rails or operation, the options are wide open. A few extras that can be added to compatible racks:
- LED camp lights
- Rooftop tents
- Jerry can holders
- Fold-out tables
- Adjustable crossbars
Legal and Load Considerations
As with any tray mod, there are rules. Load height must stay within legal limits, and so must weight. A rack above a shutter doesn’t mean unlimited space.
The vehicle’s payload, centre of gravity, and road rules still apply. Weight on the rack can affect handling, especially when driving off-road or with a full load. You should always check the rated capacity of both the tub rack and roller shutter before stacking gear.
Final Word
How do tub racks and roller shutters work together? It’s a bit like adding two puzzle pieces to the same space, and finding out they fit better than expected. A roller shutter adds security and weatherproofing. A tub rack opens up load options above it. Combined, they help ute owners get more use out of their trays without giving up function or style.
Lexy Summer is a talented writer with a deep passion for the art of language and storytelling. With a background in editing and content creation, Lexy has honed her skills in crafting clear, engaging, and grammatically flawless writing.
