Head to head
Bateson 3550 Platform Trailer vs Ifor Williams TA5
The Bateson 3550 Platform Trailer is rated 800kg heavier gross.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Gross weight: the Bateson 3550 Platform Trailer is rated 800kg heavier gross.
Specifications side by side
| Bateson 3550 Platform Trailer | Ifor Williams TA5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3500kg | 2,700kg standard, 3,500kg on TA5HD variants |
| Internal bed | 5m x 2m (expandable to 6.7m x 2.43m) | - |
| Axles | 2 (3 optional) | - |
| Unladen weight | - | 610kg (8ft x 4ft) up to 1,030kg (TA5HD 12ft x 7ft) |
| Internal width | - | 1.53m |
| Internal length | - | 2.32m, 3.12m or 3.72m depending on model |
| Brakes | - | Braked |
Sources: Bateson 3550 Platform Trailer, Ifor Williams TA5. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 3550 Platform Trailer if...
- you want one that is rated 800kg heavier gross
A large flatbed trailer for carrying machinery, building materials or vehicles, with the bed width and length expandable to suit the load. It is bought mainly by contractors and plant hire firms needing a 3.5 tonne platform.
Listed by
- Sleaford Trailers - Sleaford
Buy or hire the TA5 if...
The standard British livestock trailer, and the one most smallholders and farmers picture when they say livestock trailer. Low loading height and flexible partitions matter more here than raw capacity, because the job is getting animals in and out calmly rather than maximising a payload.
Listed by
- Blains Trailers & Tyres - Hemel Hempstead, Great Gaddesden
- Corwen Trailer Centre - Corwen
- East Midlands Trailers - Leicester, Thrussington
- Barnwell Trailers Ltd - Peterborough, Oundle, Barnwell
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bateson 3550 Platform Trailer and the Ifor Williams TA5?
The Bateson 3550 Platform Trailer is rated 800kg heavier gross. The Bateson 3550 Platform Trailer is a 16ft twin-axle platform trailer; the Ifor Williams TA5 is a livestock trailer, twin axle.
Can I tow the Bateson 3550 Platform Trailer or the Ifor Williams TA5 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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