TMAT AUSTRALIA • BUYER’S GUIDE
Modular Cargo Mat Buyer’s Guide for Utes, Vans & SUVs
Do not just buy a mat. Build a system.
Choosing a ute tub mat or cargo organiser? Compare modular cargo mats, rubber mats, tub liners, dividers and drawers. Learn what to check before buying, how to plan your layout and how a TMAT system can adapt from weekday work to weekend touring.
START WITH THE BASICS
What is a modular cargo mat system?
A modular cargo mat system uses interlocking panels and strips to create a configurable cargo floor. Repositionable blockers and compatible accessories let you organise tools, storage crates, camping equipment and everyday gear around what you actually carry.
With TMAT, the floor forms the foundation of the system. You can move blockers, change accessory positions and expand the layout with additional components as your needs change. The system sits on the cargo floor without drilling into the vehicle.
Configure the foundation.
Combine panels and strips to create a layout suited to your cargo area and access requirements.
Give your gear a place.
Position blockers around different items to define storage areas and help limit movement across the mat.
Keep building.
Add compatible holders, locators and other components to suit your next load or activity.
Organisation and restraint serve different purposes. TMAT helps organise your cargo area. It does not replace suitable cargo restraints.
CHOOSE WHAT SUITS YOUR LOAD
Modular cargo mats vs rubber mats, liners, dividers and drawers
Start with the problem you want to solve. Surface protection, open storage, small item organisation and access to gear are different priorities. Some setups combine more than one solution.
| Option | Useful for | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Rubber cargo mat | A protective surface with added friction between the floor and your gear. | A mat alone does not create defined storage zones. Grip varies with the mat, cargo and conditions. |
| Tub liner | Protecting the tub surface from everyday wear and contact with equipment. | Liners change the usable internal dimensions. Check measurements with the liner fitted. |
| Divider system | Separating the cargo area into compartments for different gear. | Check how easily the dividers move, how they mount and whether compartment sizes suit your load. |
| Drawer system | Enclosed compartments and organised access to smaller items. | Compare installed weight, mounting requirements, drawer access and remaining cargo height. |
| Modular cargo mat system | An adaptable floor layout with movable blockers and compatible accessories. | Plan the floor coverage, access configuration and accessories. Independently restrain cargo. |
A modular system is worth considering when you regularly switch between work equipment, touring supplies and recreational gear, and want to keep your layout adaptable. Drawers may suit you better when enclosed compartments are your main priority.
YOUR VEHICLE. YOUR FIT.
What to check before buying a ute tub mat or cargo system
Check the usable floor.
Measure the cargo area with its liner and accessories installed. Note the length, width between wheel arches, tailgate opening and any obstructions.
Decide how you need access.
Consider which items you reach for most often and whether you want a pull out configuration or additional floor coverage.
Allow for the whole setup.
Check clearances beneath covers and around existing equipment. Keep access to vehicle tie down points and plan how each load will be restrained.
The vehicle badge is only the starting point. Plastic liners, spray in coatings, wheel arch shapes and fitted accessories can affect the layout. Two vehicles with the same model name may need different configurations.
How TMAT Australia confirms your kit: Select your vehicle kit, then complete the measurement form linked in your order confirmation. We use your actual tub dimensions to confirm the configuration before preparing your kit. Components may be cut where needed for the agreed layout.
For a custom cargo area, use the TMAT Custom Builder to plan your layout, or contact TMAT Australia for help.
PLAN FOR HOW YOU USE YOUR TUB
Pull out access or full floor coverage?
TMAT vehicle kits are supplied in a pull out configuration. The layout prioritises access and clearance rather than covering every part of the tub floor.
If you want additional coverage around the wheel arches or elsewhere in the tub, extra panels and strips may be needed. Plan this before ordering so the layout reflects how you intend to use the vehicle.
Pull out access is for use when the vehicle is stationary. Check support and clearance before moving the mat or cargo, and return the setup fully inside the cargo area before travel.
BUILD AROUND WHAT YOU CARRY
The floor is the start of your TMAT system.
Choose accessories for the gear you use most often. Leave space for larger items and think about how easily you can change the setup when your plans change.
Work gear
Configure blockers around toolboxes and equipment. Explore compatible anchors and holders for a more organised working layout.
Touring and camping
Plan positions for storage crates and supplies. Sidio collapsible crates can be positioned within the system using TMAT Sidio locators.
Fishing and everyday use
Add fishing rod holders or suitable cylinder clamps, and rearrange blockers for the items you carry throughout the week.
Need more floor coverage? TMAT full panels measure 305 × 305 mm, half panels 305 × 153 mm and standard strips 305 × 51 mm. The combination and quantities depend on the layout.
Accessory suitability depends on the item, its dimensions and the intended use. Check the individual product information and plan separate cargo restraint.
CHECK THE CARGO ENVIRONMENT
Which vehicles and cargo areas suit TMAT?
TMAT is intended for covered or enclosed cargo areas, including ute tubs with covers or canopies, vans, SUVs, caravans, camper trailers and enclosed trailers. Fitment depends on the available floor area, clearances and the planned layout.
- Covered ute tubs: confirm the liner, wheel arch dimensions and tailgate opening.
- Vans and SUVs: check floor shape, seat positions, door access and available restraint points.
- Caravans and enclosed trailers: allow for access doors, fixed equipment and the dimensions of the storage compartment.
Important use information: TMAT is a cargo organisation and surface protection system, not a load restraint device. Independently secure all cargo using suitable restraints. TMAT should not be used in an open sided bed or while travelling with the tailgate down.
BEFORE YOU ORDER
Modular cargo mat questions answered
Is TMAT a rubber ute mat?
TMAT uses interlocking panels and strips to form a modular cargo floor. Blockers and compatible accessories provide layout options beyond a basic floor mat.
Does TMAT replace a tub liner?
TMAT sits on the cargo floor and can form part of a setup with an existing liner. It does not provide the same sidewall coverage as a tub liner. Measure your tub with the liner fitted so its dimensions are included in the layout.
Do I need to drill into my vehicle?
The TMAT floor sits in the cargo area without drilling into the vehicle. Panels and strips may be cut where needed to achieve the configured layout.
Will a standard kit cover the entire tub floor?
TMAT vehicle kits use a pull out configuration. Additional panels and strips may be needed for full coverage or a different layout. Use the TMAT Custom Builder to explore your requirements.
Can I change the layout after installation?
Yes. You can reposition blockers and compatible accessories, and add or rearrange floor components. Moving the system to another vehicle may require extra components or different cuts.
Can I use Sidio crates with TMAT?
Yes. TMAT Sidio locators are used to position compatible Sidio crates within the TMAT layout. Check the locator product details for fitment and inclusions. Locators do not replace independent cargo restraint.
Do blockers mean I can leave cargo unrestrained?
No. Blockers help organise items and limit movement within the layout. They are not load restraint devices. Cargo must be independently secured for travel.
How do I choose the correct TMAT kit?
Start with the vehicle kit collection. Complete the measurement form provided with your order confirmation so TMAT Australia can confirm the layout. For an unlisted vehicle or custom cargo area, contact us or use the Custom Builder.