Head to head
Brian James Eco Plant vs Ifor Williams GD85
The Brian James Eco Plant is rated 1.2 tonnes heavier gross. The Ifor Williams GD85 is 55kg lighter empty and has a bed 20cm longer.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Gross weight: the Brian James Eco Plant is rated 1.2 tonnes heavier gross.
- Unladen weight: the Brian James Eco Plant weighs 55kg more empty.
- Internal bed: the Ifor Williams GD85 has a bed 20cm longer.
Specifications side by side
| Brian James Eco Plant | Ifor Williams GD85 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 2600kg | 1,400kg single axle / 2,700kg twin axle |
| Unladen weight | from 450kg | 395kg single axle / 485kg twin axle |
| Internal bed | 2.3m / 2.5m long x 1.1m / 1.5m wide | 2.5m x 1.58m (8ft 2in x 5ft 2in) |
| Payload | up to 2183kg | - |
| Axles | Twin | - |
| Brakes | - | Braked, auto-reverse over-run |
Sources: Brian James Eco Plant, Ifor Williams GD85. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the Eco Plant if...
- you want one that is rated 1.2 tonnes heavier gross
Aimed at gardeners, groundcare contractors and farmers moving small low-clearance kit such as compact tractors or turf equipment. It undercuts the General Plant and Digger Plant ranges on price and weight for buyers who do not need a full-size plant trailer.
Listed by
- Bicester Trailer Centre - Bicester
Buy or hire the GD85 if...
- you want one that is 55kg lighter empty
- you want one that has a bed 20cm longer
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 Brian James Eco Plant and the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Brian James Eco Plant is rated 1.2 tonnes heavier gross. The Ifor Williams GD85 is 55kg lighter empty and has a bed 20cm longer. The Brian James Eco Plant is a an entry-level beavertail plant trailer for small, low ground clearance machinery; the Ifor Williams GD85 is a general duty box trailer, single or twin axle.
Which is lighter, the Brian James Eco Plant or the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Ifor Williams GD85. It is 55kg lighter empty than the Brian James Eco Plant.
Can I tow the Brian James Eco Plant 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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