Head to head
Bateson 48LT vs Ifor Williams GD85
The Ifor Williams GD85 is 555kg lighter empty. The Bateson 48LT is rated 1.7 tonnes heavier gross.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Unladen weight: the Bateson 48LT weighs 555kg more empty.
- Gross weight: the Bateson 48LT is rated 1.7 tonnes heavier gross.
Specifications side by side
| Bateson 48LT | Ifor Williams GD85 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3100kg | 1,400kg single axle / 2,700kg twin axle |
| Unladen weight | 950kg | 395kg single axle / 485kg twin axle |
| Payload | 2150kg | - |
| Internal length | 3600mm | - |
| Internal width | 1710mm | - |
| Internal height | 1800mm | - |
| Internal bed | - | 2.5m x 1.58m (8ft 2in x 5ft 2in) |
| Brakes | - | Braked, auto-reverse over-run |
Sources: Bateson 48LT, Ifor Williams GD85. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 48LT if...
- you want one that is rated 1.7 tonnes heavier gross
Bateson's largest standard livestock trailer, described by the maker as suited to 4x4s and larger tow vehicles. It gives farmers more capacity than the smaller 60LT-class trailers in the same range.
Listed by
- Fieldfare Trailer Centre - Salisbury
Buy or hire the GD85 if...
- you want one that is 555kg 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 48LT and the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Ifor Williams GD85 is 555kg lighter empty. The Bateson 48LT is rated 1.7 tonnes heavier gross. The Bateson 48LT is a 12ft x 5ft8 twin-axle livestock trailer; the Ifor Williams GD85 is a general duty box trailer, single or twin axle.
Which is lighter, the Bateson 48LT or the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Ifor Williams GD85. It is 555kg lighter empty than the Bateson 48LT.
Can I tow the Bateson 48LT 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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