The VIN plate (Vehicle Identification Number plate) is a small metal or sticker plate found on most vehicles. You’ll usually find it:
Under the bonnet
Inside the driver's door
It contains key information about your car, including:
The VIN (a unique vehicle ID code)
Manufacturer info
Don’t worry, we’ll explain what all that means in a second.
Why the VIN Plate Matters for Towing
If you’re towing a trailer or horsebox, you need to know how much weight your car is legally allowed to pull. This isn’t just a suggestion - it’s the law, and towing over the limit can get you fined, void your insurance, or worse.
Here’s how the VIN plate helps:
GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): This is the maximum your vehicle can weigh fully loaded (passengers, fuel, dog, snacks - the lot).
GTW (Gross Train Weight): This is the total allowed weight of your fully-loaded vehicle plus your fully-loaded trailer.
To find your maximum towing capacity, simply subtract the GVW from the GTW:
What If There’s No GTW on the Plate?
If there’s no GTW listed, that means your car isn’t approved for towing.
Don’t try to wing it. It’s not worth the risk.
Quick Tips from Brent
Always check the VIN plate before you tow, especially if you're using a different car.
If you're hiring a trailer from Brent, make sure your vehicle’s capacity matches the trailer you're booking.
When in doubt, ask us. We’ve helped plenty of first-time towers get sorted the right way.
Final Thought: Know Your Limits, Tow With Confidence
Your car’s VIN plate is like a cheat sheet for towing - telling you what’s safe, legal, and possible. So before you hitch up, take 30 seconds to check it. It'll save you a heap of bother.
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