Not All Ute Canopies Are Built the Same — And That’s a Good Thing

When I first started looking at getting a ute canopy, I thought it was just a matter of picking one that fit the tray and looked decent. Turns out, there’s a bit more to it. If you want to get the most out of your canopy setup — especially as a tradie — you’ve got to match it to the way you actually work.

Over the years, I’ve seen sparkies, plumbers, chippies, and even surveyors all use their canopies differently. So here’s a practical guide to help you figure out what setup suits your trade and tools best.

 

 

Step 1: Start With Your Daily Loadout

Before you even look at canopy specs, take stock of what you carry:

  • Are you lugging long ladders, conduit, or pipe?

  • Do you carry a mix of power tools and small fittings?

  • Do you use crates, drawers, or plastic bins for parts?

  • Do you need quick side access or just rear?

For example, as a builder, I need side access for my circular saw, and a clear centre bay for longer framing gear. A sparkie mate of mine, on the other hand, runs shelving on one side and drawer modules for all his connectors and testers.

If your canopy doesn’t suit your gear layout, you’ll end up frustrated — or worse, constantly rearranging it.

 

 

Step 2: Choose the Right Opening Style

There are typically three options:

  • Gullwing canopies – open wide from both sides, ideal for tool access without climbing into the tray

  • Lift-up rear doors – better for long items or when working directly off the back

  • Combination setups – handy if you need both side and rear access

I went for a gullwing on one side and lift-up on the rear — gives me the flexibility to grab tools fast or load up bulky gear at the back.

 

 

Step 3: Consider Fitouts That Match Your Trade

This is where the right ute canopy really shines. Internal fitouts aren’t just for looks — they’re built to make your day easier. Depending on your trade, you might want:

  • Lockable drawers for power tools (ideal for carpenters and sparkies)

  • Adjustable shelving for pipes, bottles, or service kits (great for plumbers and HVAC techs)

  • Slide-out trays or workbenches (common for mobile mechanics or field service crews)

And don’t forget power. If you’re running batteries or need to charge gear onsite, ask about electrical fitouts with lighting, USB ports, or inverter support.

 

 

Step 4: Think About Conditions and Security

Working in coastal or remote areas? You’ll need weather resistance and security:

  • Aluminium construction for corrosion resistance

  • Internal hinges for tamper-proofing

  • Gas struts that won’t give up after a few wet winters

  • Rubber seals to keep dust and rain out

I learned the hard way that not all canopies are sealed equally — a cheap import let water in during a storm and ruined a bunch of stock. Never again.

 

 

Final Word

A ute canopy isn’t just a box on the back of your vehicle — it’s your mobile workshop, your secure storage unit, and sometimes even your office. Take the time to match it to your trade and the way you work, and it’ll pay off every single day.

My advice? Talk to a supplier who actually understands the trade — like the team at Camco — and get something built for the real world, not just the catalogue.