Head to head
Bateson 355B vs Ifor Williams GD85
The Bateson 355B is rated 2.1 tonnes heavier gross. The Ifor Williams GD85 is 405kg lighter empty.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Gross weight: the Bateson 355B is rated 2.1 tonnes heavier gross.
- Unladen weight: the Bateson 355B weighs 405kg more empty.
Specifications side by side
| Bateson 355B | Ifor Williams GD85 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3500kg | 1,400kg single axle / 2,700kg twin axle |
| Unladen weight | 800kg | 395kg single axle / 485kg twin axle |
| Payload | 2700kg | - |
| Deck length | 5000mm | - |
| Deck width | 2100mm | - |
| Axles | Twin axle | - |
| Internal bed | - | 2.5m x 1.58m (8ft 2in x 5ft 2in) |
| Brakes | - | Braked, auto-reverse over-run |
Sources: Bateson 355B, Ifor Williams GD85. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 355B if...
- you want one that is rated 2.1 tonnes heavier gross
Bateson's most popular beavertail transporter, used by garages, race teams and recovery operators to load a car under its own power up a shallow ramp rather than winching it onto a flat deck. It comes with ramps and a hand winch as standard.
Listed by
- Mid Norfolk Trailer Sales & Hire LTD - King's Lynn
Buy or hire the GD85 if...
- you want one that is 405kg lighter empty
The entry point of the Ifor Williams general duty range and one of the most common working trailers in Britain. Smallholders, gardeners and tradespeople buy it for everyday hauling without needing a heavy tow vehicle, and the twin-axle version roughly doubles the payload for a modest gain in unladen weight.
Full GD85 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Bateson 355B and the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Bateson 355B is rated 2.1 tonnes heavier gross. The Ifor Williams GD85 is 405kg lighter empty. The Bateson 355B is a twin axle beavertail car transporter trailer; the Ifor Williams GD85 is a general duty box trailer, single or twin axle.
Which is lighter, the Bateson 355B or the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Ifor Williams GD85. It is 405kg lighter empty than the Bateson 355B.
Can I tow the Bateson 355B or the Ifor Williams GD85 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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