Head to head
Bateson 26MD vs Ifor Williams HB511
The Bateson 26MD is 500kg lighter empty. The Ifor Williams HB511 is rated 100kg heavier gross.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Unladen weight: the Ifor Williams HB511 weighs 500kg more empty.
- Gross weight: the Ifor Williams HB511 is rated 100kg heavier gross.
Specifications side by side
| Bateson 26MD | Ifor Williams HB511 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 2,600kg | 2,700kg |
| Unladen weight | 500kg | 1,000kg |
| Payload | 2,100kg | - |
| Internal bed length | 2,450mm | - |
| Internal bed width | 1,270mm | - |
| Internal length | - | 3.52m |
| Internal width | - | 1.79m |
| Brakes | - | Braked |
Sources: Bateson 26MD, Ifor Williams HB511. 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 500kg 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 HB511 if...
- you want one that is rated 100kg heavier gross
The wider step up from the HB506, for larger horses or owners who want more room in transit. The extra 12cm of internal width and 36cm of length cost 80kg unladen, which is worth checking against your tow vehicle before choosing it over the HB506.
Listed by
- Trek-Trailers Suffolk - Bury Saint Edmunds
- R M Trailer Centre - Middlesbrough, North Ormesby
- Blains Trailers & Tyres - Hemel Hempstead, Great Gaddesden
- Horse Trailer Sales - Robertsbridge, Staplecross
- Trek-Trailers Three Counties - Hereford
- Barnwell Trailers Ltd - Peterborough, Oundle, Barnwell
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bateson 26MD and the Ifor Williams HB511?
The Bateson 26MD is 500kg lighter empty. The Ifor Williams HB511 is rated 100kg heavier gross. The Bateson 26MD is a plant trailer for mini excavators up to 2,100kg; the Ifor Williams HB511 is a two-horse trailer, twin axle, wider body.
Which is lighter, the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams HB511?
The Bateson 26MD. It is 500kg lighter empty than the Ifor Williams HB511.
Can I tow the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams HB511 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.
GetBrent is an independent directory and is not a dealer for, nor affiliated with, either manufacturer. Model and brand names are the trademarks of their owners.