Head to head
Bateson 26MD vs Ifor Williams LM85
The Ifor Williams LM85 carries 875kg more and is rated 900kg heavier gross. The Bateson 26MD is 25kg lighter empty.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Payload: the Ifor Williams LM85 carries 875kg more.
- Gross weight: the Ifor Williams LM85 is rated 900kg heavier gross.
- Unladen weight: the Ifor Williams LM85 weighs 25kg more empty.
Specifications side by side
| Bateson 26MD | Ifor Williams LM85 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 2,600kg | 3500kg |
| Unladen weight | 500kg | 525kg |
| Payload | 2,100kg | 2975kg |
| Internal bed length | 2,450mm | - |
| Internal bed width | 1,270mm | - |
| Internal bed | - | 2.44m x 1.52m |
Sources: Bateson 26MD, Ifor Williams LM85. 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 25kg 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 LM85 if...
- you want one that carries 875kg more
- you want one that is rated 900kg heavier gross
A compact flatbed for smallholders and tradespeople who need to move heavy but not bulky loads, such as pallets of blocks, and want maximum payload from the smallest bed in the range.
Listed by
- Barnwell Trailers Ltd - Peterborough, Oundle, Barnwell
- Lancaster trailer hire - ELY
- R M Trailer Centre - Middlesbrough, North Ormesby
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bateson 26MD and the Ifor Williams LM85?
The Ifor Williams LM85 carries 875kg more and is rated 900kg heavier gross. The Bateson 26MD is 25kg lighter empty. The Bateson 26MD is a plant trailer for mini excavators up to 2,100kg; the Ifor Williams LM85 is a the shortest flatbed trailer in the LM range.
Which is lighter, the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams LM85?
The Bateson 26MD. It is 25kg lighter empty than the Ifor Williams LM85.
Which carries more, the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams LM85?
The Ifor Williams LM85, by 875kg.
Can I tow the Bateson 26MD or the Ifor Williams LM85 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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