Head to head
Bateson 26MD vs Brian James A4 Transporter
The Bateson 26MD is 270kg lighter empty. The Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 400kg heavier gross and carries 130kg more.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026

Key differences
- Unladen weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter weighs 270kg more empty.
- Gross weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 400kg heavier gross.
- Payload: the Brian James A4 Transporter carries 130kg more.
Specifications side by side
| Bateson 26MD | Brian James A4 Transporter | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 2,600kg | 3000kg |
| Unladen weight | 500kg | 770kg |
| Payload | 2,100kg | 2230kg |
| Internal bed length | 2,450mm | - |
| Internal bed width | 1,270mm | - |
| Internal bed | - | 4.5m x 2.0m |
| Axles | - | Twin axle |
Sources: Bateson 26MD, Brian James A4 Transporter. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 26MD if...
- you want one that is 270kg lighter empty
A compact plant trailer built to carry a 1.5 to 2 tonne mini excavator plus buckets and attachments. It is a common sight behind pickups on groundworks and landscaping jobs, sized to stay within an unbraked or standard car licence towing limit.
Listed by
- Warrior Trailers Limited - Worcester
Buy or hire the A4 Transporter if...
- you want one that is rated 400kg heavier gross
- you want one that carries 130kg more
The A4 Transporter suits driving schools, small dealers and enthusiasts who need to move one car at a time behind a car-derived tow vehicle, offering a simple twin-axle bed without the cost of a beavertail or enclosed body. Its compact size makes it easier to store and manoeuvre than the longer trailers in the A Transporter range.
Listed by
- Compass Trailers - Lewes, Ringmer
- Saxons Trailers - Westerham, Biggin Hill
- R M Trailer Centre - Middlesbrough, North Ormesby
- Formula Trailers,, Brian-James Trailers Main Dealer in the SW UK - Wellington, Poole
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bateson 26MD and the Brian James A4 Transporter?
The Bateson 26MD is 270kg lighter empty. The Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 400kg heavier gross and carries 130kg more. The Bateson 26MD is a plant trailer for mini excavators up to 2,100kg; the Brian James A4 Transporter is a twin-axle open car transporter trailer from Brian James' A Transporter range, built for towing one car on a 4.5m bed..
Which is lighter, the Bateson 26MD or the Brian James A4 Transporter?
The Bateson 26MD. It is 270kg lighter empty than the Brian James A4 Transporter.
Which carries more, the Bateson 26MD or the Brian James A4 Transporter?
The Brian James A4 Transporter, by 130kg.
Can I tow the Bateson 26MD or the Brian James A4 Transporter on a car licence?
Yes, as far as the licence goes. Both are rated at or under 3,500kg gross, and a car (B) licence has covered towing up to 3,500kg since 16 December 2021. Your car still has to be rated to tow the loaded weight - check the handbook or the VIN plate.
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