JCB: New trailer-towing legislation explained

towing is hugely beneficial for construction workers – you might need to move items around on-site, or transport different attachments or independently operated equipment like a generator. Up to now, it’s been illegal for plant machinery operators to tow on UK roads. But as of July 2024, a deviation to towing trailers for engineering plant is making this a possibility for businesses and individual trailer owners involved in the construction and maintenance of public roads. Read on as we explain how you can tow legally and safely with your JCB machine.

How is the law changing for towing a trailer? 

In 2017, the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) stated that it’s not permitted to use any earthmoving equipment to tow a trailer on the UK highway – even if it’s only to transport attachments. This proved to be hugely restrictive for anyone operating engineering plant machinery, as it prevents you moving additional equipment between sites. Since then, there’s been significant advancements in towing safety and technology to make it a possibility. And after our continual promotion of the benefits, reduce carbon, reduce costs and increase efficiency, we’re pleased to report that a ministerial decision was made by the DfT that towing a trailer should be permitted for the activities listed below. 

So what is the change on towing a trailer? This July, the VCA confirmed that users who obtain a Vehicle Special Order (VSO) may use any wheeled earthmoving machinery (Engineering Plant) to tow a trailer on the UK highway for road construction, maintenance and repair. It may be limited applications, but this deviation from the prohibition in The Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) General Order (STGO)  for towing a trailer allows JCB customers to carry certain attachments and materials with their machines – making urban working more convenient and efficient.

For the full JCB explanation and guidance click HERE.

(Pic: JCB)

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