Head to head
Brian James General Plant vs Ifor Williams HB511
The Brian James General Plant is rated 800kg heavier gross.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026


Key differences
- Gross weight: the Brian James General Plant is rated 800kg heavier gross.
Specifications side by side
| Brian James General Plant | Ifor Williams HB511 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3500kg | 2,700kg |
| Payload | 2593kg | - |
| Internal bed | 3.6m x 1.8m | - |
| Axles | Tri-axle (12in wheels) | - |
| Unladen weight | - | 1,000kg |
| Internal length | - | 3.52m |
| Internal width | - | 1.79m |
| Brakes | - | Braked |
Sources: Brian James General Plant, Ifor Williams HB511. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the General Plant if...
- you want one that is rated 800kg heavier gross
A tougher all-round plant trailer for contractors who need to move a range of machines - diggers, dumpers, rollers - rather than one specific type. The tri-axle chassis spreads load for towing at higher gross weight on public roads.
Listed by
- Fieldfare Trailer Centre - Salisbury
- Bicester Trailer Centre - Bicester
- Formula Trailers,, Brian-James Trailers Main Dealer in the SW UK - Wellington, Poole
Buy or hire the HB511 if...
The wider step up from the HB506, for larger horses or owners who want more room in transit. The extra 12cm of internal width and 36cm of length cost 80kg unladen, which is worth checking against your tow vehicle before choosing it over the HB506.
Listed by
- Trek-Trailers Lincolnshire - Doncaster, Belton
- Trek-Trailers Suffolk - Bury Saint Edmunds
- R M Trailer Centre - Middlesbrough, North Ormesby
- Blains Trailers & Tyres - Hemel Hempstead, Great Gaddesden
- Horse Trailer Sales - Robertsbridge, Staplecross
- Trek-Trailers Three Counties - Hereford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Brian James General Plant and the Ifor Williams HB511?
The Brian James General Plant is rated 800kg heavier gross. The Brian James General Plant is a a tri-axle equipment trailer for general building and groundwork plant; the Ifor Williams HB511 is a two-horse trailer, twin axle, wider body.
Can I tow the Brian James General Plant or the Ifor Williams HB511 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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