Professional drop side conversions can transform everyday light commercial vehicles into flexible, high-value workhorses. RMA Automotive South Africa’s Drop-Side Tray conversions are engineered to increase usable deck space of popular light commercial vehicles, simplifying the loading process while retaining the donor vehicles’ rated carrying capacity – a practical upgrade for businesses that rely on frequent loading and unloading.

RMA Automotive South Africa’s design replaces the OEM load box to create a flat, removable deck with full forklift access from all three sides. Removing the wheel arches dramatically increases the load footprint: a single-cab truck can carry up to two pallets side-by-side, while the drop sides are easily detached to provide a completely flat surface for awkward or oversized items. It is important to note that the tray is built to the OEM Body Builders Guide so the vehicle retains its original 1 000 kg rated payload.

Constructed from mild steel with corrosion protection at every stage, the tray receives an E-Coating followed by powder coat finishes in white, silver or black for durability and a neat appearance. Floor options include a heavy-duty 16 mm marine plywood treated and sealed for grip, or a steel floor with an optional Polyurea spray-in bedliner. A heavy headboard protects the cab and provides tie-down support for long loads such as piping or poles. Heavy-duty D-rings are recessed into the load bed for secure lashing.

The Drop-Side Tray suits many commercial uses:

• garden services
• furniture removals
• general contracting
• motorcycle and quad transport
• courier operations handling larger items

In fact, it is a practical solution for almost all businesses using light commercial vehicles.

RMA Automotive South Africa currently fits the tray to Ford Ranger (new and previous generations) and Toyota Hilux, with compatibility expanding to Isuzu D-Max and Toyota Land Cruiser pick-ups on request. This versatility makes our drop side conversions for light commercial vehicles a strong option for all small fleets and tradespeople seeking a reliable daily work platform.

Generation 2 enhancements deliver practical upgrades: press-lock stowage for ropes and straps, extra side panelling for improved aesthetics, and updated rectangular LED lights for better visibility and compliance. Optional extras such as additional D-rings, tool stowage, and bespoke finishing let customers tailor the build to operational needs.

For operators who need heavier-duty on-site capability – including those in the extractive industries – professionally executed drop side conversions reduce downtime, speed logistics and protect loads in transit. Contact RMA Automotive South Africa to discuss how a tailored drop-side solution can improve productivity across your fleet and to explore fitment options for reliable, fit-for-purpose light commercial vehicles.