Head to head
Bateson 26MD vs Ifor Williams HBE506
The Bateson 26MD carries 875kg more and is 275kg lighter empty.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Payload: the Bateson 26MD carries 875kg more.
- Unladen weight: the Ifor Williams HBE506 weighs 275kg more empty.
- Gross weight: the Bateson 26MD is rated 600kg heavier gross.
Specifications side by side
| Bateson 26MD | Ifor Williams HBE506 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 2,600kg | 2000kg |
| Unladen weight | 500kg | 775kg |
| Payload | 2,100kg | 1225kg |
| Internal bed length | 2,450mm | - |
| Internal bed width | 1,270mm | - |
| Internal length | - | 3.26m |
| Internal width | - | 1.67m |
Sources: Bateson 26MD, Ifor Williams HBE506. 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 carries 875kg more
- you want one that is 275kg lighter empty
- you want one that is rated 600kg 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 HBE506 if...
Aimed at owners who want HB506-sized space for two horses or ponies but need a lower gross weight to stay within a smaller car's towing limit.
Listed by
- Barnwell Trailers Ltd - Peterborough, Oundle, Barnwell
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bateson 26MD and the Ifor Williams HBE506?
The Bateson 26MD carries 875kg more and is 275kg lighter empty. The Bateson 26MD is a plant trailer for mini excavators up to 2,100kg; the Ifor Williams HBE506 is a a lighter-weight version of the HB506 double horsebox.
Which is lighter, the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams HBE506?
The Bateson 26MD. It is 275kg lighter empty than the Ifor Williams HBE506.
Which carries more, the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams HBE506?
The Bateson 26MD, by 875kg.
Can I tow the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams HBE506 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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