Why Your Power Strip Might Not Sit Flat in a Cable Tray
A tray's advertised width is only one part of the fit. A power strip may sit at an angle if its cable exit meets an end bar, if a plug needs more room, or if the usable interior is smaller than expected. The illustration shows a possible conflict, not a fault in every tray. These checks help you compare the whole assembly before ordering.
Download the original checklist image
1. Inside space
Compare usable internal width, depth and height with the complete power strip. Allow for brackets, crossbars and fixing points that occupy part of the basket. Do not use a product photo to infer an unpublished measurement. If a dimension matters to your equipment, obtain it from the maker or seller first.
2. Exit position
Identify where the power lead leaves the strip and where it would pass through the tray. An opening can be large enough for a cable but not for its moulded plug. Compare the intended routing with the installation instructions. Choose compatible hardware rather than cutting a bar, altering a plug or squeezing a lead through an unsuitable opening.
3. Plug size
List the plugs and adapters you actually need. Side-facing sockets and large adapters can take more space than an empty power strip. Check that the chosen layout allows the access and ventilation required by the equipment maker. More room in a tray is not permission to overload a strip or connect power strips together.
4. No force
If the strip only sits flat when you press on a lead or wedge a plug against a bar, do not treat that as a successful fit. Disconnect equipment before reorganising it and follow its instructions. Replace an incompatible tray or layout rather than improvising electrical modifications. Damaged parts should not be used.
Before you order
Record the tray's internal measurements, the strip's full footprint with plugs, and the cable route you intend to use. An unknown measurement is a reason to ask for information, not a reason to label a product 'universal'. This is a planning guide, not an electrical installation or independent product test.
Your fit worksheet
Use centimetres or inches consistently. These cells are intentionally unfilled: we have not measured your space or approved a product for it.
| Check | Your space or equipment | Product requirement | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inside space | Record your measurement or observation | Confirm with the maker | Not checked |
| Exit position | Record your measurement or observation | Confirm with the maker | Not checked |
| Plug size | Record your measurement or observation | Confirm with the maker | Not checked |
| No force | Record your measurement or observation | Confirm with the maker | Not checked |
Reference and evidence limits
Retailer example: IKEA FORSASONG cable tray, US listing.
The linked retailer page and its public customer feedback supplied research leads, not independent performance evidence. Comments can reflect individual experiences. We have not independently reproduced them or verified compatibility, stock, price, load limits or current numerical specifications. Check the product page and instructions for your market before buying. Source reviewed on 2026-09-21.