Bulthuis TATA

The register lists 10 versions of the TATA range with unladen weights from 7,060 to 12,180 kg and gross vehicle weights from 40,000 to 48,000 kg. Seven of the models also carry lengths from 10,520 to 12,300 mm, while width is uniform across all models at 2,550 mm, the maximum permitted for commercial vehicles under EU rules.

With gross weights up to 48 tonnes, TATA belongs to the class of heavy-haulage semi-trailers for the special transport of construction machinery, steel parts or other concentrated loads beyond a regular 40-tonne combination. Such semi-trailers are usually built with more than three axles and often with steerable trailing axles to spread the high axle load over sufficient contact area.

On a used semi-trailer of this class, the condition and play of the axles and steering axles, frame distortion and cracks in the heavily loaded welds, the braking system and suspension, and the kingpin all matter most. As such semi-trailers are mostly used in special transport, abnormal-load permits and the date of the last roadworthiness inspection belong in the check as well, along with the condition of the loading and lashing points.