Polarvan AKasettiTPV

At 12,840 mm long and 2,550 mm wide, the trailer sits right at the usual European road limit of 2,550 mm width. Against an unladen weight of 10,910 kg, this leaves a payload of 31,090 kg, the difference between the gross weight rating and the unladen weight. That leaves roughly 74 per cent of the gross weight rating available as payload.

Trailers in this weight bracket carry compressed-air brakes as standard rather than the simple overrun brake fitted to light trailers, together with ABS or EBS matched to the towing vehicle. Running such a combination calls for at least category CE on the towing vehicle's licence, since the combined weight is well beyond the limits of category C1E. The tyres and wheels fitted must be rated for the approved top speed and the registered axle load. Registration also depends on a valid approval certificate matching exactly the values stated here.

Buying a used trailer of this size is worth checking for leaks at the air-brake coupling heads and lines, the condition of the suspension and axle bearings, corrosion on the main chassis members and cross-beams, and whether the lighting and the electrical connector to the towing vehicle still work. The tyres should match the registered axle load and not be aged beyond their safe service life. A complete inspection and service record makes judging the trailer's condition considerably easier.