When it comes to towing, unbraked trailers are a different kettle of fish compared to their braked cousins. If you’re thinking about hitching up one of these lighter trailers, it pays to know the rules, so you don’t get caught out on the road or, worse, end up with a hefty fine.
Let’s break down the basics of what unbraked trailers you can legally tow, and why sticking to the limits keeps you safe and sound.
What’s an Unbraked Trailer Anyway?
Simply put, an unbraked trailer is a trailer without its own braking system. That means when you hit the brakes in your car, the trailer relies solely on your vehicle to stop it. Because of this, unbraked trailers are usually smaller and lighter — but they also place extra strain on your vehicle’s brakes.
The 750kg Maximum – And That Half-Weight Rule
In the UK, the maximum you can tow with an unbraked trailer is 750 kilograms gross weight. But there’s a catch — you cannot exceed half the kerb weight of your towing vehicle.
What does that mean?
Kerb weight is basically how much your car weighs empty, including standard equipment and fluids but without any passengers or cargo.
So if your car weighs 1,600 kg kerb weight, you can only tow an unbraked trailer that’s up to 800 kg max. But since the legal limit for unbraked trailers is 750 kg, your absolute limit remains 750 kg anyway.
This rule is designed to make sure your car’s brakes and handling aren’t overwhelmed by too much trailer weight without proper trailer brakes.
Can I Tow a Trailer Over My Car’s Limit?
Sometimes you might see trailers rated with a Gross Weight higher than your car’s official towing limit. The good news? You can still tow one of these trailers — but only if you load it up to your car’s towing limit or below.
For example, if your car’s towing limit is 1,200 kg and the trailer’s max weight is 1,500 kg, you can tow that trailer legally — as long as you keep the trailer loaded under 1,200 kg.
Why You Shouldn’t Push Your Towing Limits
Exceeding your car’s towing limit or the unbraked trailer limits isn’t just illegal — it’s downright dangerous. Overloading your vehicle or trailer can lead to:
Poor braking performance and longer stopping distances
Reduced vehicle stability and steering control
Increased wear and tear on your suspension and drivetrain
Risk of trailer sway or jackknifing
Potentially failing roadside checks and fines
You don’t want to take those risks when hauling gear or towing a trailer.
How to Stay Legal and Safe When Towing an Unbraked Trailer
Check your vehicle’s kerb weight and towing limits in the manual or VIN plate
Always verify the trailer’s gross weight and load it appropriately
Make sure your total trailer load doesn’t exceed 750 kg for unbraked trailers
Never overload your trailer — balance your load and secure everything tight
Consider weighing your loaded trailer at a public weighbridge if you’re unsure
Final Word: Know Your Limits, Tow With Confidence
Towing an unbraked trailer might seem simple, but it’s essential to understand the legal limits — especially that 750 kg maximum and the half kerb weight rule. Stick to the numbers, and you’ll enjoy safer towing without risking fines or damage to your vehicle.
Need an unbraked trailer that fits your setup? Check out Brent’s trailer hire options — we’ll help you tow smarter and safer every time.
-Brent