Head to head
Bateson 26MD vs Ifor Williams LM166
The Bateson 26MD is 295kg lighter empty. The Ifor Williams LM166 is rated 900kg heavier gross and carries 605kg more.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Unladen weight: the Ifor Williams LM166 weighs 295kg more empty.
- Gross weight: the Ifor Williams LM166 is rated 900kg heavier gross.
- Payload: the Ifor Williams LM166 carries 605kg more.
Specifications side by side
| Bateson 26MD | Ifor Williams LM166 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 2,600kg | 3500kg |
| Unladen weight | 500kg | 795kg |
| Payload | 2,100kg | 2705kg |
| Internal bed length | 2,450mm | - |
| Internal bed width | 1,270mm | - |
| Internal bed | - | 4.77m x 1.98m |
Sources: Bateson 26MD, Ifor Williams LM166. 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 295kg 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 LM166 if...
- you want one that is rated 900kg heavier gross
- you want one that carries 605kg more
Bought by contractors and hauliers who regularly carry longer loads, such as fencing materials or several pallets, and need more deck length than the LM106 or LM126 provide.
Listed by
- East Midlands Trailers - Leicester, Thrussington
- G-Tec Trailers - Thetford, Holme Hale
- Blains Trailers & Tyres - Hemel Hempstead, Great Gaddesden
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bateson 26MD and the Ifor Williams LM166?
The Bateson 26MD is 295kg lighter empty. The Ifor Williams LM166 is rated 900kg heavier gross and carries 605kg more. The Bateson 26MD is a plant trailer for mini excavators up to 2,100kg; the Ifor Williams LM166 is a a long-bed flatbed trailer.
Which is lighter, the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams LM166?
The Bateson 26MD. It is 295kg lighter empty than the Ifor Williams LM166.
Which carries more, the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams LM166?
The Ifor Williams LM166, by 605kg.
Can I tow the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams LM166 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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