What to Look for in a False Floor Drawer System for Vans and Utes
A well-designed false floor drawer system can completely transform how you use your van or ute. Whether you’re a tradie, courier, or weekend adventurer, the right setup helps you stay organised, protect your gear, and work more efficiently. But not all drawer systems are built the same — so what should you actually look for?
Here’s a quick guide to the key features that matter when choosing the best van or ute storage drawers for your setup.
1. ✅ Smart Use of Space
Your drawer system should give you access to gear without turning your vehicle into a game of Tetris. Look for a layout that makes use of the full width and depth of your false floor, with rear and side access drawers for ultimate flexibility.
Workvan tip: Our systems come with two rear drawers and two passenger side drawers, giving you access from all angles without needing to climb inside or pull drawers out into oncoming traffic.
2. 🧱 Build Quality That Lasts
Whether you’re loading it up with tools, fasteners, or camping gear, you need a system that can take a beating. Materials, joinery, and construction matter — especially if your setup sees daily use on rough roads or jobsites.
Watch for:
Some drawer systems on the market cut corners by using thin ply or MDF, cheap plastic trim, or lightweight runners that rattle, bend, or fail under pressure. Over time, these materials can warp, sag, or delaminate — especially when exposed to moisture or heat inside a van or ute.
How Workvan solves this:
Our drawer systems are built using high-grade structural ply and robust fasteners, ensuring long-term strength. The drawer faces and frames are CNC-machined for accuracy and consistency, with joinery designed to hold up in real-world trade conditions. Workvan drawer systems are engineered to work as hard as you do — no creaks, no wobbles, no shortcuts.
3. 🔒 Security That Matches Your Needs
Your tools and gear aren’t cheap — your storage should protect them. Think about how secure you need your setup to be. For example:
The Apprentice system uses a simple padlock for quick, affordable protection.
The Contractor system includes an integrated key lock for higher security and peace of mind.
4. 🛠️ No-Frills Installation (Especially for DIYers)
Not everyone wants to spend a weekend drilling and puzzling through instructions. Choose a drawer system designed for quick, clean installation — ideally with no need for structural mods to your vehicle.
Workvan bonus: Our drawer systems are DIY-friendly and designed to fit popular vans and utes like the Toyota Hiace, Ford Transit, and more.
5. 🏋️♂️ Metal Drawer Runners aren’t always the best (Seriously)
It might sound counterintuitive, but metal runners aren’t always better. They add weight, cost, and complexity — and they often fail under dust, grit, or heavy loads. Our systems ditch the runners entirely, using simple glide systems that are smooth, durable, and reliable in tough conditions.
Workvan tip: For tradies who work with timber or generate a lot of sawdust — like chippies or cabinetmakers — we often recommend the Apprentice system. Its nylon glide setup isn’t affected by dust the way traditional metal runners are, making it a better long-term choice for messy work environments.
6. 📦 Modular Options That Grow With You
A static layout might work for now — but what about next year? Modular systems give you the freedom to tweak your layout, add dividers, or expand as your gear changes.
Wrapping It Up
A great false floor drawer system should make your work (and life) easier — not heavier, more expensive, or more complicated. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade your current setup, keeping the above features in mind will help you choose a system that works hard and lasts long.
Ready to get your van or ute sorted? Explore our range of Workvan drawer systems or get in touch — we’ll help you build the perfect fitout for your trade, your gear, and your lifestyle.
