Trays

A tray is a shallow, flat container with raised edges that is used to hold, carry, or present items. Trays vary in size and purpose and can be made from metal, plastic, wood, or composite materials. Many trays are designed to be food-safe or heat-resistant, depending on their intended use.

Common designs include serving trays with handles, baking trays with durable bottoms, and shallow organizational trays with rims. Other variants include perforated trays for drainage or ventilation, and stackable trays for compact storage.

In households, trays are used for serving meals, transporting items, or organizing surfaces. In kitchens, baking trays and sheet pans are used for roasting and baking. In industrial and laboratory settings, trays hold tools, components, samples, or parts during handling and processing.

Sizes and materials vary by application, with features chosen for durability, weight, and ease of cleaning. The term covers a broad range of product categories, from small beverage trays to large transport and packaging trays.