Q We are proposing to supply a trailer some 17ft
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in length and fitted with over-run brakes i,vith close-coupled .four wheels — similar to a caravan chassis. On this we are building a special body to carry one piece of machinery weighing 22 civt in the vehicle, the machinery will he permanent/1' installed and the vehicle used as a demonstration van. The trailer will he towed by a new Range Rover. The approximate weight of the trailer will he 45 cwt loaded. What is the legal weight for a trailer of this. type? What is the maximum legal length and width of trailer allowed?
Will it he necessary to use an operator's licence and will the trailer be free from annual plating?
A Regulation 4 (e) of the Goods Vehicle (Plating and Testing) Regulations 1971 include trailers of which the unladen weight exceeds 1 ton (as will your vehicle on the figures given) as vehicles which must be plated and tested. Thus, the legal maximum gross weight, till it is plated, is the manufacturer's design weight, and plating will determine the legal gross weight thereafter.
As far as your vehicle is concerned, the Motor Vehicle (Construction and Use) Regulations 1973 lays down 7 metres (22ft 11.592in) as the maximum overall length of a trailer and 2.3 metres (7ft 6.552in) maximum width.
It will probably be necessary for your customer to obtain an operators' licence because he will be using a vehicle over 30cwt unladen for his trade or business. He should consult the area traffic office of the Department of the Environment.