Head to head
Brian James A4 Transporter vs Ifor Williams TA5
The Ifor Williams TA5 is 160kg lighter empty. The Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 300kg heavier gross.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Unladen weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter weighs 160kg more empty.
- Gross weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 300kg heavier gross.
Specifications side by side
| Brian James A4 Transporter | Ifor Williams TA5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3000kg | 2,700kg standard, 3,500kg on TA5HD variants |
| Unladen weight | 770kg | 610kg (8ft x 4ft) up to 1,030kg (TA5HD 12ft x 7ft) |
| Payload | 2230kg | - |
| Internal bed | 4.5m x 2.0m | - |
| Axles | Twin axle | - |
| Internal width | - | 1.53m |
| Internal length | - | 2.32m, 3.12m or 3.72m depending on model |
| Brakes | - | Braked |
Sources: Brian James A4 Transporter, Ifor Williams TA5. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the A4 Transporter if...
- you want one that is rated 300kg 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
Buy or hire the TA5 if...
- you want one that is 160kg lighter empty
The standard British livestock trailer, and the one most smallholders and farmers picture when they say livestock trailer. Low loading height and flexible partitions matter more here than raw capacity, because the job is getting animals in and out calmly rather than maximising a payload.
Listed by
- Blains Trailers & Tyres - Hemel Hempstead, Great Gaddesden
- Corwen Trailer Centre - Corwen
- East Midlands Trailers - Leicester, Thrussington
- Barnwell Trailers Ltd - Peterborough, Oundle, Barnwell
Common questions
What is the difference between the Brian James A4 Transporter and the Ifor Williams TA5?
The Ifor Williams TA5 is 160kg lighter empty. The Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 300kg heavier gross. 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.; the Ifor Williams TA5 is a livestock trailer, twin axle.
Which is lighter, the Brian James A4 Transporter or the Ifor Williams TA5?
The Ifor Williams TA5. It is 160kg lighter empty than the Brian James A4 Transporter.
Can I tow the Brian James A4 Transporter or the Ifor Williams TA5 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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