Ute tailgate storage can be a clever way to use space that is often overlooked. Depending on the vehicle and the design, a tailgate-storage setup may use an internal panel, shallow compartment or custom-built insert to hold small tools, straps, recovery equipment or other compact gear.
But tailgate storage is highly vehicle-specific. Tailgate construction, internal bracing, latches, wiring, cameras, central-locking components and trim all vary between utes, so a design that works on one model should not be assumed to fit another.
UniUte does not currently list a dedicated tailgate-storage box or tailgate-storage conversion kit. This guide explains the main options, what to check before installing one, and the current UniUte storage alternatives available if you want easier access to tools and cargo.
What Is Ute Tailgate Storage?
Tailgate storage usually means converting part of the tailgate into a shallow storage area or attaching a compact compartment to the tailgate structure.
Common approaches include:
- replacement inner-tailgate panels with integrated storage;
- shallow boxes fitted inside the tailgate cavity where the vehicle design allows;
- custom-fabricated compartments;
- removable organisers attached to a suitable tailgate surface;
- DIY storage systems built around the exact shape and structure of the vehicle.
The available space is normally limited, so tailgate storage is better suited to compact items than bulky equipment.
What Can You Store in a Tailgate Compartment?
Typical items may include:
- tie-down straps;
- gloves;
- small hand tools;
- tyre-repair equipment;
- compact recovery accessories;
- torch and electrical accessories;
- small first-aid or emergency items.
Heavy equipment should only be carried where the tailgate and storage system are designed to support the additional load.
Benefits of Tailgate Storage
Uses Otherwise Wasted Space
A shallow compartment can make use of an area that would otherwise remain empty while leaving most of the tub floor available.
Keeps Small Gear Easy to Reach
Items stored in the tailgate can be accessible as soon as the tailgate is opened, rather than being buried behind larger cargo near the front of the tub.
Can Complement Other Storage
Tailgate storage can form one part of a broader setup that also includes side storage, a sliding tray, a canopy or a tub cover.
Limitations of Tailgate Storage
Tailgate storage also has important limitations:
- internal space is usually shallow;
- added weight changes how the tailgate feels when opening and closing;
- some vehicles contain wiring, locking components or camera systems inside the tailgate;
- cutting or drilling can affect the tailgate if done incorrectly;
- water and dust resistance depend on the exact design and installation;
- a compartment is not automatically theft-proof simply because it is hidden or lockable.
DIY Tailgate Storage: What to Check First
DIY tailgate storage is possible on some vehicles, but the first step should be inspection rather than cutting.
Before modifying anything:
- Remove or inspect the inner trim carefully. Identify the available cavity and internal bracing.
- Locate wiring and hardware. Check for central locking, reversing-camera wiring, handle mechanisms and other electrical components.
- Check latch movement. A storage panel must not interfere with the tailgate release or locking mechanism.
- Check structural sections. Do not cut into reinforcement or structural areas without proper fabrication knowledge.
- Account for extra weight. Added storage and cargo increase the load on hinges, cables and any tailgate-assist system.
- Plan drainage and sealing. Do not assume the inside of the tailgate is a completely dry environment.
If the design requires significant cutting, fabrication or structural modification, professional fabrication is the safer option.
Tailgate Storage Box vs Swing-Out Tool Box
A tailgate-storage box uses the tailgate itself. A swing-out tool box mounts inside the tub near the side wall and swings toward the tailgate when opened.
Swing-out storage is often more practical when you want quick access to small tools without modifying the tailgate structure.
UniUte currently offers vehicle-specific swing-out tool boxes for selected utes. Browse the ute tub storage range for current options.
Tailgate Storage vs Sliding Tray
A ute sliding tray solves a different problem. Instead of creating a small compartment in the tailgate, it brings cargo stored deeper in the tub toward you.
A sliding tray may be better if you regularly carry:
- large tool cases;
- camping tubs;
- fridges;
- boxes or bulky equipment;
- changing loads that do not suit fixed compartments.
Hilux Tailgate Storage Considerations
Searches for Hilux tailgate storage are common, but fitment depends on the exact HiLux generation and tailgate configuration.
Before fitting or fabricating a storage panel, confirm:
- N70, N80 or 2026/N90 generation;
- tailgate trim and inner-panel shape;
- whether tailgate central locking is fitted;
- whether a camera, wiring loom or other accessory occupies the internal space;
- whether the added weight will affect normal opening and closing.
UniUte does not currently list a dedicated HiLux tailgate-storage box. Current HiLux alternatives include selected swing-out storage boxes, sliding trays, tailgate central locking and other tub-storage products.
Mitsubishi Triton Tailgate Storage Considerations
Triton tailgates differ between generations, so a storage solution for MQ/MR should not automatically be assumed to fit the newer MV.
Check internal bracing, latch location, wiring and any tailgate-assist or central-locking hardware before modifying the panel.
UniUte currently carries selected Triton tailgate and tub accessories, including tailgate central locking for compatible MV models and sliding-tray options for selected Triton generations.
Isuzu D-Max Tailgate Storage Considerations
For D-Max owners, check the vehicle generation and any fitted locking or camera hardware before considering a DIY compartment.
UniUte currently offers selected D-Max tailgate accessories, including tailgate central locking and ProLift tailgate assist for compatible generations, plus vehicle-specific sliding trays and swing-out tub storage.
Ford Ranger Tailgate Storage Considerations
Ford Ranger tailgate construction and accessory fitment differ between PX and NextGen models.
Before adding storage, confirm whether the tailgate has:
- central locking or aftermarket locking hardware;
- camera or wiring components;
- a tailgate-assist system;
- other internal modifications.
UniUte currently offers selected Ranger tailgate assist, central locking, sliding-tray and tub-storage products, but no dedicated tailgate-storage conversion kit.
Nissan Navara Tailgate Storage Considerations
Navara tailgate layouts also vary by generation. A D23/NP300 storage design should not be assumed to fit the newer D27 without checking the actual tailgate structure and hardware.
For current Navara storage and tailgate upgrades, use the UniUte vehicle selector to confirm exact year and body fitment.
Tailgate Storage and Central Locking
If your ute has tailgate central locking, a storage conversion must not interfere with the actuator, rods, wiring or latch mechanism.
After any modification, verify that the tailgate opens, closes and locks correctly before loading the storage compartment.
Tailgate Storage and Tailgate Assist
A tailgate-assist system is designed around a particular tailgate weight and movement.
Adding a storage box plus tools can change that weight. Check the tailgate-assist product requirements and make sure the modified tailgate still operates smoothly and safely.
Weather and Dust Protection
A tailgate compartment should not automatically be treated as waterproof or dustproof.
Water can enter around trim, access holes, seals and other openings, while dust can be drawn into cavities during travel on unsealed roads. If moisture-sensitive equipment will be stored inside, use appropriate internal protection and only rely on a stated waterproof or dustproof rating where the manufacturer explicitly provides one.
Security Considerations
A hidden or lockable compartment can make casual access more difficult, but no tailgate-storage system should be described as theft-proof.
If high-value tools are carried regularly, combine appropriate storage with vehicle locking and a suitable tub cover where practical.
Alternatives to Tailgate Storage at UniUte
Because UniUte does not currently list a dedicated tailgate-storage box, the most relevant current alternatives are:
- swing-out ute tool boxes and tub storage;
- vehicle-specific sliding trays;
- tailgate central locking for selected models;
- ProLift tailgate assist for selected models;
- selected tailgate guard caps and tub-protection products;
- roller shutters, hard lids and tonneau covers where covered cargo storage is the main goal.
Which Storage Solution Makes Most Sense?
Choose tailgate storage when you specifically want a small, dedicated compartment in or on the tailgate and are comfortable with the vehicle-specific fabrication involved.
Choose a swing-out tool box when you want quick access to small tools without cutting into the tailgate. Choose a sliding tray when your main problem is reaching larger cargo stored near the front of the tub.
The best setup depends on what you carry, how often you access it, and how much permanent space you are willing to dedicate to storage.
Tailgate Storage: Final Fitment Checklist
- Confirm make, model, year and generation.
- Inspect the internal tailgate structure before modifying anything.
- Check latches, wiring, cameras and central-locking hardware.
- Allow for the added weight of the compartment and its contents.
- Do not assume the compartment is waterproof, dustproof or theft-proof.
- Use professional fabrication where the modification affects structure or requires significant cutting.
If you would rather avoid modifying the tailgate, browse UniUte's current ute tub storage and sliding tray ranges for vehicle-specific alternatives.
1 comment
Hi, can you make a tailgate storage for the MV Triton? If yes, I will get it 3d scanned. and sent to you guys