South West Trailers

Questions & Answers

What Can I Tow?

Not sure what you need? We’re hoping our towing 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.

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.

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.

South West Trailers

Recommendations

Tips for Towing a trailer in the UK & Europe

Towing Tip #1

Check the towing capacity of your car and ensure the weight of the trailer and its contents do not exceed this limit.

Towing Tip #2

Make sure your trailer has the correct number plate and is registered with the DVLA.

Towing Tip #3

Always use proper towing equipment, such as a hitch or coupling, and ensure it is secure.

Towing Tip #4

Inspect your trailer’s brakes, wheels, tyres, and lights before each trip.

Towing Tip #5

Load your trailer evenly, placing heavier items towards the centre, and secure everything.

Towing Tip #6

Adjust your mirrors so you can see behind and to the sides of your trailer.

Towing Tip #7

Practice reversing and manoeuvring in an open and empty car park.

Towing Tip #8

Drive smoothly, allowing for the extra weight of the trailer, and avoid sudden braking or acceleration.

Towing Tip #9

Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and avoid driving in the right-hand lane on motorways.

Towing Tip #10

Take frequent breaks and never drive for more than 4 hours without stopping

Towing Tip #11

Check the laws and regulations for towing in other countries before travelling abroad.

Towing Tip #12

Ensure passengers and pets are properly secured in the car and not in the trailer.

Towing Tip #13

Follow all speed limits and obey road signs and traffic laws.

Towing Tip #14

Stay alert and focused while driving and avoid distractions.

Towing Tip #15

Check all connections and safety features at rest stops during your journey.

Towing Tip #16

Use hazard warning lights when driving slow or coming to a stop.

Towing Tip #17

Have an emergency kit with a spare tyre, tools, food and water, and warm clothing.

Towing Tip #18

Stay aware of the weather conditions and adjust driving accordingly.

Towing Tip #19

Know your route and have alternative routes planned in case of emergency or road closures.

Towing Tip #20

Take a towing and weight distribution course from a driving school to improve your skills.