Head to head
Bateson 26MD vs Ifor Williams GD85
The Bateson 26MD is rated 1.2 tonnes heavier gross. The Ifor Williams GD85 is 105kg lighter empty.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Gross weight: the Bateson 26MD is rated 1.2 tonnes heavier gross.
- Unladen weight: the Bateson 26MD weighs 105kg more empty.
Specifications side by side
| Bateson 26MD | Ifor Williams GD85 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 2,600kg | 1,400kg single axle / 2,700kg twin axle |
| Unladen weight | 500kg | 395kg single axle / 485kg twin axle |
| Payload | 2,100kg | - |
| Internal bed length | 2,450mm | - |
| Internal bed width | 1,270mm | - |
| Internal bed | - | 2.5m x 1.58m (8ft 2in x 5ft 2in) |
| Brakes | - | Braked, auto-reverse over-run |
Sources: Bateson 26MD, Ifor Williams GD85. 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 rated 1.2 tonnes heavier gross
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 GD85 if...
- you want one that is 105kg lighter empty
The entry point of the Ifor Williams general duty range and one of the most common working trailers in Britain. Smallholders, gardeners and tradespeople buy it for everyday hauling without needing a heavy tow vehicle, and the twin-axle version roughly doubles the payload for a modest gain in unladen weight.
Full GD85 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Bateson 26MD and the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Bateson 26MD is rated 1.2 tonnes heavier gross. The Ifor Williams GD85 is 105kg lighter empty. The Bateson 26MD is a plant trailer for mini excavators up to 2,100kg; the Ifor Williams GD85 is a general duty box trailer, single or twin axle.
Which is lighter, the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Ifor Williams GD85. It is 105kg lighter empty than the Bateson 26MD.
Can I tow the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams GD85 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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