A UTV can be one of the most useful vehicles on a farm or rural property.
It can carry fencing gear, tools, feed, recovery equipment, working dogs, and supplies into places where a larger ute or truck may be harder to use.
But a standard UTV cargo area can quickly become crowded and disorganised.
The right setup can give you more usable storage, keep your equipment secure, and make it easier to move between jobs throughout the day.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to set up your UTV for farming, property work, and off-road use, including trays, tray sides, dog boxes, storage, load placement, and practical accessories.
What Does a Good Farm UTV Setup Need?
A good UTV setup should make everyday jobs easier.
That normally means creating a system that helps you:
- Carry tools securely
- Transport fencing equipment
- Move feed and supplies
- Carry working dogs
- Access equipment quickly
- Keep loose items contained
- Travel safely over rough ground
- Make better use of the rear cargo area
- Change the setup depending on the job
The best setup will depend on what you actually use your UTV for.
A livestock property may need a very different configuration from a vehicle used mainly for fencing, hunting, or general maintenance.
Start with a Strong UTV Tray
The tray is the foundation of the rear setup.
A larger, stronger tray gives you a practical platform for carrying tools, feed, equipment, dog boxes, and other loads.
AP Boxes' UTV tray is designed for side-by-side vehicles and measures 1200mm long by 1550mm wide, with universal mounting points designed to suit a range of SxS vehicles.
Why Upgrade the Standard Cargo Area?
Factory cargo beds can be useful, but they may not offer enough space or flexibility for demanding farm work.
A tray-style setup can make it easier to carry items such as:
- Fence posts
- Wire and fencing tools
- Feed bags
- Toolboxes
- Chains
- Recovery equipment
- Water containers
- Pumps
- General farm supplies
An open tray also makes loading and unloading larger items much easier.
Check Fitment Before Buying
Don't assume every tray will fit every UTV.
AP Boxes uses universal mounting points across its UTV tray, but recommends checking compatibility with your specific vehicle before purchasing.
Measure your vehicle and confirm:
- Mounting area
- Available width
- Available length
- Clearance around the wheels and body
- Rear overhang
- Existing accessories
Fitment should always be confirmed before installation.
Add Tray Sides to Keep Loads Contained
An open tray gives you flexibility, but loose tools, bags, and supplies can shift when you're driving across paddocks or uneven tracks.
Tray sides help keep the load contained while still allowing fast access.
AP Boxes offers UTV full tray sides designed to work with its aluminium UTV tray.
When Are Full Tray Sides Useful?
Full tray sides make sense when you're regularly carrying:
- Feed
- Small tools
- Equipment cases
- Firewood
- Camping equipment
- Fencing supplies
- Bags or loose items
They're particularly useful when your UTV is travelling over ruts, hills, and uneven ground where unsecured items could move around.
Do Tray Sides Replace Tie-Downs?
No.
Tray sides help contain the load, but heavier or larger items should still be properly secured.
Use suitable tie-down points and restraints for anything that could shift, fall, or move under braking.
Use Half Tray Sides When Adding a Dog Box
If your UTV also carries a working dog, you may not need full tray sides across the entire rear setup.
AP Boxes offers half tray-side configurations designed specifically for layouts with a dog box mounted at the front or rear of the tray.
For example, the UTV half tray sides for rear-mounted dog boxes allow you to combine a dog compartment with an open load area.
This type of configuration can work well when you need:
- A dedicated space for your dog
- Room for tools
- Access to fencing gear
- Space for feed or supplies
- A flexible farm vehicle
Should You Add a Dog Box to a Farm UTV?
If your dog works around livestock or travels with you between different parts of the property, a dedicated dog box can make the setup much more practical.
Rather than having your dog share the rear area with tools, chains, or loose equipment, you can give the dog a dedicated compartment.
AP Boxes offers a UTV full dog box designed for side-by-side vehicles.
Why Use a Dedicated Dog Box?
A separate dog compartment helps keep your dog away from:
- Sharp tools
- Loose fencing equipment
- Chains
- Chemicals
- Feed bags
- Heavy equipment
It can also help keep the rest of the tray more organised.
Think About Ventilation and Temperature
A working dog box still needs appropriate airflow.
AP Boxes' UTV dog box includes ventilation openings and secure locking hardware.
However, a ventilated box is not automatically safe in every weather condition.
Always monitor your dog, provide water and breaks, and avoid leaving a dog enclosed in unsafe heat.
Organise Your UTV by Job Type
One of the easiest ways to improve a farm UTV is to organise the rear setup around the jobs you perform most often.
Instead of carrying everything all the time, create a system that lets you quickly load the equipment required for the task.
UTV Setup for Fencing Work
Fencing often requires a mixture of long items, hand tools, and smaller components.
A useful fencing setup might include:
Frequently Used Tools
Keep commonly used items close to the edge of the tray.
This may include:
- Pliers
- Cutters
- Hammers
- Wire strainers
- Gloves
- Small hand tools
You shouldn't need to unload half the tray every time you need a pair of fencing pliers.
Larger Equipment
Longer or heavier equipment should be secured properly.
Depending on the job, this could include:
- Fence posts
- Wire rolls
- Star pickets
- Chains
- Strainers
Use the tray's tie-off points rather than relying on the sides alone.
Small Parts
Items such as clips, fasteners, insulators, and connectors are easier to manage when kept in separate containers.
Loose small parts can disappear quickly on a rough track.
UTV Setup for Livestock Work
If you're using your UTV for livestock checks, the setup needs to support regular movement between paddocks.
Useful equipment might include:
- Dog box
- Water
- Feed
- First aid supplies
- Basic tools
- Livestock equipment
- Communication equipment
- Small repair items
Keep the things you use several times a day within easy reach.
If your dog works with livestock, positioning the dog box where it can be accessed easily can also save time throughout the day.
UTV Setup for Property Maintenance
A UTV used for general maintenance may need to carry different tools every day.
One day you might be repairing a gate. The next, you could be clearing a track or checking pumps.
This is where a flexible tray becomes useful.
Rather than permanently filling the tray, use:
- Removable toolboxes
- Storage tubs
- Tie-down points
- Tray sides
- Clearly organised containers
That lets you change the load depending on the job.
UTV Setup for Remote and Off-Road Work
If you regularly travel into more isolated parts of a property, carry equipment that helps you deal with basic problems without returning to the shed.
Consider keeping:
- Tyre repair equipment
- Basic tools
- First aid kit
- Recovery equipment
- Water
- Communication equipment
- Torch or work light
- Spare parts relevant to your vehicle
Keep essential recovery equipment accessible rather than buried underneath your normal work gear.
How Should You Store Tools on a UTV?
The goal is to keep tools secure without slowing down your work.
Keep Daily Tools Easy to Reach
Tools you use repeatedly should sit closest to the tray edge or opening.
There's no benefit in putting your most-used equipment in the hardest place to reach.
Separate Small and Large Tools
Keep small hand tools in a toolbox or container.
Larger equipment can sit directly on the tray when properly secured.
Keep Dirty Equipment Separate
Mud, grease, and livestock work can make equipment dirty quickly.
Where possible, keep dirty tools separate from:
- Food
- Clothing
- First aid supplies
- Dog equipment
A few dedicated storage areas can make the UTV much easier to keep organised.
Can You Use Underbody Storage on a Farm Setup?
On larger tray and ute setups, underbody storage is a useful way to move smaller equipment out of the main load area.
AP Boxes has a range of underbody boxes and wheel guards designed for additional secure storage.
Whether this type of storage is suitable for your UTV will depend on the vehicle, tray, clearance, and mounting arrangement.
Always confirm fitment before adding accessories underneath a side-by-side.
How Do You Secure Equipment on Rough Farm Tracks?
Even a slow trip across a paddock can cause equipment to shift.
Corrugations, potholes, slopes, and sudden braking can all move an unsecured load.
Use Tie-Down Points
The AP Boxes UTV tray includes a full-length tie-off rail, allowing equipment to be secured at different points along the tray.
Use suitable restraints for heavy or bulky equipment.
Don't Stack Heavy Gear Too High
Position heavier equipment lower where practical.
This helps keep the load more stable and reduces the risk of equipment falling or shifting.
Avoid Loose Tools
A loose hammer, chain, or toolbox can become a problem very quickly on rough ground.
Secure everything before moving off.
How Should Weight Be Distributed on a UTV?
Don't focus only on whether something physically fits.
You also need to consider how much weight the vehicle is carrying and where that weight is positioned.
Heavy items may include:
- Feed
- Water
- Tools
- Dog box
- Dog
- Fencing equipment
- Recovery gear
- Fuel
- Spray equipment
Where practical, keep heavier items lower and avoid unnecessarily loading everything at the very rear.
Always stay within the payload, cargo, and towing limits specified for your UTV.
Can You Carry Water on a UTV?
Yes, but remember that water becomes heavy very quickly.
One litre of water weighs approximately one kilogram.
That means even a relatively small water tank or container can add significant weight to the setup.
If you're carrying water for livestock, spraying, cleaning, or remote work, include it in your total load calculations.
Secure the container properly so it cannot move while the vehicle is travelling.
Can You Carry Fuel on a Farm UTV?
Additional fuel may sometimes be useful for remote work, but it needs to be transported appropriately.
Use approved fuel containers and secure them in accordance with applicable requirements.
Avoid placing fuel containers where they could:
- Move around
- Be damaged by tools
- Be exposed to unnecessary heat
- Leak onto other equipment
If you're unsure about the relevant requirements, check the rules that apply in your state or territory.
What About Sprayers and Other Farm Equipment?
Many farms use UTVs to carry small sprayers, pumps, tanks or other specialised equipment.
Before mounting anything heavy, check:
- Equipment weight
- Vehicle payload
- Tray capacity
- Mounting requirements
- Weight distribution
- Clearance
- How the equipment will be secured
Don't assume an accessory is suitable simply because it fits on the tray.
Weight and mounting matter just as much as dimensions.
What Is the Best UTV Setup for Off-Road Work?
A practical all-round setup could include:
- Aluminium UTV tray
- Full or half tray sides
- Dog box if required
- Secure toolbox
- Recovery equipment
- Water
- First aid kit
- Tie-down equipment
- Work lighting
- Job-specific storage
The key is not to add every accessory available.
Add the equipment that solves a genuine problem in your day-to-day work.
Should You Choose Aluminium for a UTV Tray?
Aluminium can be a practical choice for working side-by-sides because it combines strength with relatively low weight.
AP Boxes' UTV tray uses aluminium RHS construction with a fully welded frame and weighs approximately 66kg.
Keeping tray weight under control is important because every accessory you add reduces the remaining payload available for:
- Tools
- Feed
- Dogs
- Water
- Equipment
- Other supplies
Always look at the complete setup rather than the tray weight alone.
How to Set Up a Farm UTV Step by Step
If you're building your setup from scratch, follow this order.
Step 1: List Your Main Jobs
Write down the tasks you use the UTV for most often.
For example:
- Livestock checks
- Fencing
- Maintenance
- Feeding
- Hunting
- Track work
- Carrying dogs
This helps prevent you from building a setup that looks good but doesn't suit your actual work.
Step 2: Check Your Vehicle Limits
Check the manufacturer's specifications for:
- Payload
- Cargo capacity
- Towing
- Dimensions
Use these limits when planning the tray and accessories.
Step 3: Choose the Tray
Select a tray that fits your vehicle and provides enough usable space.
Confirm mounting and fitment before purchase.
Step 4: Decide Whether You Need Tray Sides
Choose full tray sides when containment is a priority.
Consider half sides if you're combining the tray with a dog box.
Step 5: Add Your Dog Box
If your working dog travels with you regularly, plan its position before filling the tray with storage.
This avoids having to redesign the setup later.
Step 6: Organise Your Tools
Separate:
- Daily tools
- Emergency tools
- Fencing equipment
- Recovery gear
- Dog equipment
Put frequently used items where they are easiest to reach.
Step 7: Secure Everything
Make sure heavier and loose items are properly tied down.
Test the setup on normal property tracks before taking it into rougher terrain.
Common UTV Setup Mistakes to Avoid
A few simple mistakes can make an otherwise good setup frustrating to use.
Carrying Too Much Equipment
More storage doesn't mean you need to fill every available space.
Only carry what you reasonably need for the job.
Ignoring Payload
A tray, dog box, tools, feed, water, and passengers can quickly add significant weight.
Know your vehicle's limits.
Poor Tool Organisation
If you need to unpack the entire tray to find one tool, the setup isn't working efficiently.
Not Securing the Load
Tray sides are useful, but heavy items still need proper restraint.
Forgetting Fitment
Universal mounting systems may suit a broad range of vehicles, but you still need to confirm fitment on your specific UTV.
Building for One Job Only
Farm work changes.
A flexible setup is often more useful than a tray permanently configured for one task.
Build Your Farm UTV Setup with AP Boxes
A well-planned UTV can become a much more useful work vehicle.
Start with a strong tray, add the right level of load containment, create a dedicated area for your working dog if required, and organise the remaining space around the jobs you perform every day.
Australian Performance Boxes offers a dedicated UTV and side-by-side range including trays, tray sides, and dog boxes designed for farming, hunting, and off-road use.
Ready to get more out of your UTV? Explore the AP Boxes range and build a practical setup for the paddock, property, or trail.
FAQs
What is the best UTV setup for farm work?
The best setup depends on the jobs you perform. A practical starting point is an aluminium tray with secure tie-down points, tray sides for load containment, organised tool storage, and a dog box if you regularly transport a working dog.
Is a UTV tray useful for farming?
Yes. A larger tray can make it easier to transport tools, fencing gear, feed, recovery equipment, and general farm supplies. It also gives you more flexibility than a small factory cargo area.
Do I need tray sides on my UTV?
Tray sides are useful if you regularly carry smaller or loose items. They help contain the load while still giving you easy access. Heavy equipment should still be properly secured.
Can I put a dog box on a UTV?
Yes, provided the dog box and mounting arrangement are suitable for your vehicle. AP Boxes offers a UTV dog box designed to integrate with its UTV tray system.
Can I use a UTV for fencing work?
Yes. UTVs are well suited to fencing because they can carry hand tools, wire, posts, and supplies while accessing areas where larger vehicles may be less convenient.
How do I organise tools on a farm UTV?
Keep frequently used hand tools in an accessible toolbox or storage container, secure larger equipment directly to the tray, and separate small parts into their own containers.
How much weight can I carry on a UTV?
This depends on the specific vehicle. Check the manufacturer's payload and cargo capacity before loading equipment. Remember to include the tray, accessories, tools, dog, water, passengers, and other items in your calculations.
Are aluminium UTV trays good for farm use?
Aluminium trays can be a good option because they offer durability without adding unnecessary weight. AP Boxes' UTV tray uses fully welded aluminium RHS construction and is designed for farming, hunting, camping, and other off-road applications.
How do I stop tools moving around on a UTV tray?
Use suitable toolboxes, storage containers, tray sides, and tie-downs. Heavy or bulky items should be properly secured to prevent movement on rough or uneven ground.
Can a UTV carry feed bags?
Yes, provided the total weight remains within your vehicle's payload limits. Tray sides can help contain bags, but the load should still be positioned and secured appropriately.
Can I use the same UTV setup for farming and hunting?
Yes. A modular tray setup can work well for both. For example, you could combine a UTV tray, dog box, and half tray sides, then change the tools and equipment you carry depending on the job.
