Head to head
Bockmann HL-AL 3218/27 vs Ifor Williams GD85
The Bockmann HL-AL 3218/27 is rated 1.3 tonnes heavier gross and has a bed 74cm (2.5ft) longer.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Gross weight: the Bockmann HL-AL 3218/27 is rated 1.3 tonnes heavier gross.
- Internal bed: the Bockmann HL-AL 3218/27 has a bed 74cm (2.5ft) longer.
Specifications side by side
| Bockmann HL-AL 3218/27 | Ifor Williams GD85 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 2700kg | 1,400kg single axle / 2,700kg twin axle |
| Internal bed | 3240mm x 1800mm | 2.5m x 1.58m (8ft 2in x 5ft 2in) |
| Brakes | Braked (overrun) | Braked, auto-reverse over-run |
| Payload | 2134kg | - |
| Axles | 2 | - |
| Unladen weight | - | 395kg single axle / 485kg twin axle |
Sources: Bockmann HL-AL 3218/27, Ifor Williams GD85. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the HL-AL 3218/27 if...
- you want one that is rated 1.3 tonnes heavier gross
- you want one that has a bed 74cm (2.5ft) longer
A wider-bedded version of the HL-AL platform trailer, giving trade and construction users more deck area for the same 2.7 tonne gross weight. It is chosen when the standard HL-AL 3016 bed is too narrow for the load.
Listed by
- Böckmann UK Trailers & Horseboxes - Cinderford, Littledean
Buy or hire the GD85 if...
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 Bockmann HL-AL 3218/27 and the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Bockmann HL-AL 3218/27 is rated 1.3 tonnes heavier gross and has a bed 74cm (2.5ft) longer. The Bockmann HL-AL 3218/27 is a larger tandem-axle high-bed platform trailer; the Ifor Williams GD85 is a general duty box trailer, single or twin axle.
Can I tow the Bockmann HL-AL 3218/27 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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