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Brian James General Plant vs Ifor Williams TA5

The Brian James General Plant is rated 800kg heavier gross.

Last reviewed 13 September 2026

Brian James General Plant
Brian James General Plant - image: Fieldfare Trailer Centre
Ifor Williams TA5
Ifor Williams TA5 - image: Ifor Williams Trailers

Key differences

Specifications side by side

Brian James General PlantIfor Williams TA5
Gross weight3500kg2,700kg standard, 3,500kg on TA5HD variants
Payload2593kg-
Internal bed3.6m x 1.8m-
AxlesTri-axle (12in wheels)-
Unladen weight-610kg (8ft x 4ft) up to 1,030kg (TA5HD 12ft x 7ft)
Internal width-1.53m
Internal length-2.32m, 3.12m or 3.72m depending on model
Brakes-Braked

Sources: Brian James General Plant, Ifor Williams TA5. 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.

Full General Plant specifications →

Buy or hire the TA5 if...

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

Full TA5 specifications →

Common questions

What is the difference between the Brian James General Plant and the Ifor Williams TA5?

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 TA5 is a livestock trailer, twin axle.

Can I tow the Brian James General Plant 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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