Head to head
Bateson PT56 vs Ifor Williams CT177
The Bateson PT56 is a tri-axle hydraulic tilt platform trailer. The Ifor Williams CT177 is a a twin-axle car transporter trailer with a long, narrow bed for single-vehicle recovery and trade use..
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Specifications side by side
| Bateson PT56 | Ifor Williams CT177 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3500kg | 3500kg |
| Deck length | 5m (16ft) | - |
| Deck width | 2.1m (7ft) | - |
| Axles | Triple axle, auto-reversing overrun brakes | - |
| Ramp | Hinged rear ramp, 75cm high | - |
| Overall length | - | 6.70m / 22'0" |
| Bed | - | 5.00m / 16'4" ((internal) length); 1.91m / 6'3" ((internal) width) |
| Unladen weight | - | 805kg |
| Payload | - | approx. 2695kg |
Sources: Bateson PT56, Ifor Williams CT177. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the PT56 if...
A tri-axle tilt-bed trailer that lowers to ground level so plant, vehicles or awkward loads can be driven or winched straight on without ramps. Its low deck and tilt action suit hire firms moving mixed loads rather than one type of vehicle.
Listed by
- Warrior Trailers Limited - Worcester
Buy or hire the CT177 if...
The CT177 is built to be wide enough for most light commercial vehicles while remaining narrow enough for smaller cars, making it a common choice for vehicle recovery firms and the motor trade. Its long bed and 3500kg GVW keep it within standard car-licence towing limits for a single vehicle plus ramps.
Listed by
- Blains Trailers & Tyres - Hemel Hempstead, Great Gaddesden
- Whitehall Trailers Ltd - Southam
- Barnwell Trailers Ltd - Peterborough, Oundle, Barnwell
- Shropshire Trailer Hire - Shrewsbury, Bicton
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bateson PT56 and the Ifor Williams CT177?
The Bateson PT56 is a tri-axle hydraulic tilt platform trailer; the Ifor Williams CT177 is a a twin-axle car transporter trailer with a long, narrow bed for single-vehicle recovery and trade use..
Can I tow the Bateson PT56 or the Ifor Williams CT177 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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