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NEW RULES SINCE 16th DECEMBER 2021

On 16th December 2021 the government confirmed that anyone in the UK who passed their driving test after 1st January 1997 will automatically have category BE added to their driving licence record. PLEASE NOTE: Anyone who passed their driving test before 1st January 1997 is unaffected by this change and has always had the BE category recorded on their driving licence. 

 

So what is category BE? BE allows drivers to drive a vehicle with a MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass) of up to 3500kgs and tow a trailer with its own MAM of up to 3500kgs but no more than the rated towing capability of the towing vehicle. This is where it starts to get a little more complicated. Every vehicle has a MAM and a Maximum Train Weight (MTW). You will find the vehicle MAM and MTW stamped on the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate. The plate will usually have 4 different weights displayed.

The top line will show the vehicle MAM this is the maximum weight the vehicle is allowed to weigh loaded when on the road including all passengers, fuel etc.

The second line is the Train Weight which is the maximum the vehicle and trailer combined are allowed to weigh when on the road. To calculate the maximum weight the vehicle is permitted to tow you simply subtract the vehicle MAM from the Train weight. The figure you're left with is the maximum the weight the vehicle can tow. The 3rd line is the maximum weight capability for the front axle and the 4th line is the maximum weight capability for the rear axle. NOTE: Often if you add these 2 figures together they will exceed the vehicle MAM so it is suggested that you distribute the load of the vehicle accordingly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The actual, exact and only towing capacity figure that should ever be used for your vehicle is that which is stamped on the Vehicle Identification Number Plate, VIN Plate.

If you're still not sure you can get in touch with us here. 

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LINE A: 3500kgs - This is the vehicle MAM.

LINE B: 5500kgs - This is the vehicle Train Weight.

LINE C: 1750kgs - This is the Maximum Load of the FRONT Axle.

LINE D: This is the Maximum Load of the REAR Axle.

To calculate the vehicle towing capability we deduct line A 3500kgs from line B 5500kgs leaving 2000kgs. So this vehicle has a Maximum towing capacity of 2000kgs which is the same as 2 tonnes.

Not sure what you need? We're hoping our guide below will help you decide. But if you're still not sure we'd be only too happy to discuss your needs to see if we can supply what would be right for you.

This is where you'll find our range of trailers for all your domestic jobs, camping trips and more. If you're looking for a trailer for any of the following purposes then you're in the right place. Still not sure? Get in touch now.

This is where you'll find our range of trailers for all your heavy duty DIY or light commercial needs and more. If you're looking for a trailer for any of the following purposes then you're in the right place. Still not sure? Get in touch now.

HEAVY DUTY & COMMERCIAL TRAILERS

This is where you'll find our range of trailers for all your heavy duty DIY or light commercial needs and more. If you're looking for a trailer for any of the following purposes then you're in the right place. Still not sure? Get in touch now.

Unsure about towing? Don't be!

We've specifically chosen our trailers because of their quality of construction and design. This makes towing them a total breeze and will give the confidence to tow just about anything. We can also recommend good local instructors, so if you want some pointers or need to get your B+E licence then we can point you in the right direction.

 

Unsure about maneuvering? Don't be!

All of our trailers come with a A style draw bar and 13" wheels which means you've got time to react to what your trailer is doing. And if you're still not sure, then nearly all of our trailers come with Jockey wheels so don't worry this time, you can practice that tight reverse when you're ready.

Unsure about hitching and coupling? Don't be!

We're more than happy to run through the best way to hitch and unhitch your new trailer. We'll always have time for our customers so we can practice it together as many times as you would like to. That's just how we operate.

For more advice and information on towing, click here to visit our good friends the National Towing Association (NTTA).

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