Ute Buying Guide For Tradies

When it comes to buying a work vehicle, tradies need something tough, reliable, and fit for purpose—and that’s where this ute buying guide for tradies comes in. We understand that a good ute isn’t just a vehicle; it’s your mobile toolbox, your workhorse, and sometimes even your office. Choosing the right one can make your workday easier, while the wrong choice might slow you down.

This guide covers everything you need to consider, from towing capacity and tool storage to deciding between petrol and diesel, so you can make an informed choice and hit the road with confidence.

Passenger Space: Single Cab or Dual Cab Ute?

The first question is simple: do you need room for just yourself and a passenger, or do you regularly ferry crew or family around? Depending on your answer, you’ll need either a single cab ute or a dual cab ute.

• Single Cab: Seats two people and offers a longer tray, making it a great choice if your priority is maximising load space.
• Dual Cab: A dual cab ute seats up to five people and provides extra secure storage inside the cab for tools and gear. Dual cabs are perfect if your ute doubles as the family car or you often transport contractors to job sites.

If you’re on the fence, think about your day-to-day needs. A dual cab might feel more versatile, but a single cab can handle heavier and longer loads more efficiently.

Towing Capacity and Tray Space

The best utes are all about getting the job done, so make sure yours has the muscle to handle your gear.

• Towing: Check the towing capacity if you’ll be hauling trailers with equipment or materials. Most utes can tow anywhere between 2,500kg and 3,500kg, but frequent towing calls for features like trailer stability assist and 4WD modes for better control.
• Tray Space: Match the tray dimensions to your tools and materials. If you regularly carry long items like ladders or timber, make sure the tray is long enough to fit them securely. Look for features like cargo hooks or roof rack compatibility to make loading and securing items into your work ute easier.

Petrol or Diesel?

The age-old debate—petrol or diesel? Here’s what you should consider:

• Diesel: Most tradies lean towards diesel for better fuel efficiency and torque, especially if towing heavy loads is part of the job. Diesel engines also tend to last longer, making them a great long-term investment.
• Petrol: Petrol utes are generally quieter and offer smoother handling, but they’re less common and might not hold their value as well.

Your decision will likely come down to how much you drive, what you’re towing, and your budget for ongoing running costs.

Secure Storage for Tools

One of the biggest concerns for tradies is keeping their tools safe on the job site and off it. Utes with dual cabs give you secure, lockable storage inside the vehicle, while single cabs may require additional investment in toolboxes or canopies.

When assessing the storage options on any ute, think about:

• Security: Look for lockable trays or canopies if storing tools in the back.
• Organisation: Customisable storage solutions, like slide-out drawers or shelving, can help keep everything tidy and accessible.
• Weather Protection: Ensure tools are shielded from rain and dust, especially if you work in remote or rugged areas.

New vs Used Utes

Deciding between new and used often comes down to budget and availability.

• New Utes: You’ll get a factory warranty and the latest safety and tech features. However, you might need to wait for stock, as demand for new utes can be high.
• Used Utes: While often cheaper upfront, used utes may come with higher maintenance costs and hidden problems that you won’t learn about until something goes wrong. Be cautious about buying older models, especially if you plan to tow heavy loads regularly.

Whatever you choose, make sure to check the service history and pay for a proper pre-purchase inspection for a used vehicle, and research warranty and service intervals for a new ute.

Comfort and Safety

You’re going to be spending a lot of time in your ute, so comfort and safety should be high on your priority list.

• Comfort: Consider adjustable seating, climate control, and good suspension—especially if you’re often driving long distances or on rough roads.
• Safety Features: Look for a high ANCAP safety rating and features like lane assist, blind spot monitoring, trailer sway control, and even rear parking sensors. These can make a big difference when you’re hauling heavy loads or driving in challenging conditions.

Ready to Buy Your Ute? Trust Credit One for Ute Financing

When you’re ready to make your ute purchase, don’t forget to arrange financing with Credit One. We have extensive access to a broad range of lending providers, competitive interest rates, and a range of flexible truck finance options available. This includes chattel mortgages, finance leases, and unsecured business loans. We make it easy to secure finance that suits your unique budget and needs. Try our truck loan calculator or go ahead contact us today to speak with a truck loan finance specialist!