Head to head
Bateson Derby vs Brian James A4 Transporter
The Brian James A4 Transporter carries 1,205kg more and is rated 1.3 tonnes heavier gross. The Bateson Derby is 95kg lighter empty.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Payload: the Brian James A4 Transporter carries 1,205kg more.
- Gross weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 1.3 tonnes heavier gross.
- Unladen weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter weighs 95kg more empty.
Specifications side by side
| Bateson Derby | Brian James A4 Transporter | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 1,700kg | 3000kg |
| Unladen weight | 675kg | 770kg |
| Payload | approx. 1,025kg | 2230kg |
| Internal length | 2.70m | - |
| Internal width | 1.50m | - |
| Internal bed | - | 4.5m x 2.0m |
| Axles | - | Twin axle |
Sources: Bateson Derby, Brian James A4 Transporter. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the Derby if...
- you want one that is 95kg lighter empty
A light double horse trailer that can be towed by a large saloon car rather than needing a 4x4, thanks to its low unladen weight. It suits owners moving one or two horses locally who want to avoid buying a heavier, purpose-built tow vehicle.
Listed by
- Horse Trailer Sales - Robertsbridge, Staplecross
Buy or hire the A4 Transporter if...
- you want one that carries 1,205kg more
- you want one that is rated 1.3 tonnes heavier gross
The A4 Transporter suits driving schools, small dealers and enthusiasts who need to move one car at a time behind a car-derived tow vehicle, offering a simple twin-axle bed without the cost of a beavertail or enclosed body. Its compact size makes it easier to store and manoeuvre than the longer trailers in the A Transporter range.
Listed by
- Compass Trailers - Lewes, Ringmer
- Saxons Trailers - Westerham, Biggin Hill
- R M Trailer Centre - Middlesbrough, North Ormesby
- Formula Trailers,, Brian-James Trailers Main Dealer in the SW UK - Wellington, Poole
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bateson Derby and the Brian James A4 Transporter?
The Brian James A4 Transporter carries 1,205kg more and is rated 1.3 tonnes heavier gross. The Bateson Derby is 95kg lighter empty. The Bateson Derby is a lightweight rear-unload double horse trailer; the Brian James A4 Transporter is a twin-axle open car transporter trailer from Brian James' A Transporter range, built for towing one car on a 4.5m bed..
Which is lighter, the Bateson Derby or the Brian James A4 Transporter?
The Bateson Derby. It is 95kg lighter empty than the Brian James A4 Transporter.
Which carries more, the Bateson Derby or the Brian James A4 Transporter?
The Brian James A4 Transporter, by 1,205kg.
Can I tow the Bateson Derby or the Brian James A4 Transporter 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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