Head to head
Brian James General Plant vs Ifor Williams HBE506
The Brian James General Plant carries 1,368kg more and is rated 1.5 tonnes heavier gross.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026

Key differences
- Payload: the Brian James General Plant carries 1,368kg more.
- Gross weight: the Brian James General Plant is rated 1.5 tonnes heavier gross.
Specifications side by side
| Brian James General Plant | Ifor Williams HBE506 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3500kg | 2000kg |
| Payload | 2593kg | 1225kg |
| Internal bed | 3.6m x 1.8m | - |
| Axles | Tri-axle (12in wheels) | - |
| Unladen weight | - | 775kg |
| Internal length | - | 3.26m |
| Internal width | - | 1.67m |
Sources: Brian James General Plant, Ifor Williams HBE506. 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 carries 1,368kg more
- you want one that is rated 1.5 tonnes 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 HBE506 if...
Aimed at owners who want HB506-sized space for two horses or ponies but need a lower gross weight to stay within a smaller car's towing limit.
Listed by
- Barnwell Trailers Ltd - Peterborough, Oundle, Barnwell
Common questions
What is the difference between the Brian James General Plant and the Ifor Williams HBE506?
The Brian James General Plant carries 1,368kg more and is rated 1.5 tonnes heavier gross. The Brian James General Plant is a a tri-axle equipment trailer for general building and groundwork plant; the Ifor Williams HBE506 is a a lighter-weight version of the HB506 double horsebox.
Which carries more, the Brian James General Plant or the Ifor Williams HBE506?
The Brian James General Plant, by 1,368kg.
Can I tow the Brian James General Plant or the Ifor Williams HBE506 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.
GetBrent is an independent directory and is not a dealer for, nor affiliated with, either manufacturer. Model and brand names are the trademarks of their owners.
