Basket Tray vs Cable Tray: Which One Is Right for Your Installation?
Basket Tray vs Cable Tray: Which One Is Right for Your Installation?
When it comes to cable management systems, choosing the right type of tray is critical for safety, performance, and future maintenance. Two of the most common solutions are basket trays and cable trays, each offering unique advantages depending on the application. In this blog, we’ll compare the two, helping you decide which suits your project best.
What Is a Basket Tray?
A basket tray (also known as a wire mesh tray or cable basket) is made from welded steel wire, typically zinc-coated or stainless steel, formed into a rigid, grid-like pattern. It is lightweight, easy to cut, and ideal for routing data and low-voltage cables.
Key features of basket trays:
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Constructed from welded steel wire
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Available in Pre-Galvanised, Hot Dipped Galvanised (HDG), and Stainless Steel finishes
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Easy to cut and customise on-site
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Best for low-voltage, telecom, and data installations
👉 View our full range of wire basket trays
What Is a Cable Tray?
Cable trays are broader in construction and can be made from solid sheet metal or perforated steel. These trays are ideal for heavier loads and industrial environments where high-voltage cables or a mix of cabling types are used.
Key features of cable trays:
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Available as perforated trays, ladder trays, or solid-bottom trays
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Suitable for power distribution, control, and communication cables
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Stronger and better for long unsupported spans
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Typically used in industrial, commercial, and plant installations
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Basket Tray vs Cable Tray: A Comparison
Feature Basket Tray Cable Tray Material Welded wire steel Sheet metal (solid or perforated) Best For Data, telecom, low-voltage cables Power cables, heavy-duty installations Customisation Easily cut to size on-site Requires pre-planning Weight Lightweight Heavier and more robust Cooling & Ventilation Excellent airflow Moderate airflow (better with perforation) Cost Lower upfront and install cost Higher material and installation cost Finish Options Pre-Galv, HDG, Stainless Pre-Galv, HDG, Powder-coated, etc.
When to Use Basket Trays
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Data centres and server rooms
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Commercial offices
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Retail or low-rise buildings
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Projects requiring high flexibility and fast installation
Tip: Basket trays are ideal when cabling layouts are likely to change, thanks to their easy-cut mesh design.
When to Use Cable Trays
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Industrial plants and manufacturing facilities
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Projects involving high-voltage power cables
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Installations requiring long unsupported spans
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Environments with heavy mechanical loads
Tip: Cable trays are best suited when mechanical protection and load-bearing capacity are a priority.
Compliance and Standards
Both basket trays and cable trays must meet British Standards such as:
Be sure to consult with a qualified installer to ensure your tray system complies with all relevant regulations.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between basket trays and cable trays largely depends on:
If you’re managing structured cabling or low-voltage systems, basket trays offer speed, airflow, and cost-efficiency. If you’re working with high-voltage or complex industrial cabling, cable trays provide the durability and support needed.
Get Expert Advice
Still unsure which tray is right for your site? Speak to the team at Direct Channel Support Systems for product recommendations, bulk pricing, and technical specifications.
📞 Contact Us or 📩 email us at sales@directchannel.uk.com
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