Van Helden Other models

The VHSP has an unladen weight of 1,630 kg, giving a payload of around 1,870 kg, a balanced ratio of tare to payload for this weight class. At a width of 2,540 mm it makes almost full use of the 2.55 m maximum permitted on public roads without a special permit, pointing to a wide, deck-focused build.

Trailers of this weight and width are used in practice for general cargo, machinery or building materials that need the full width of the deck. They are usually towed with driving licence category B combined with a suitably heavy towing vehicle, or with category BE once the combination's gross weight passes the 3.5-tonne threshold. Spare parts for axles, the overrun coupling and lighting are widely available for this common trailer class, independent of the original manufacturer.

When buying used, the overrun coupling with its damper and the brake cables deserve close attention, as they easily seize with rust from infrequent use. Check the deck for rust-through and loose floor panels, and the axle suspension for play and worn rubber bushes. Tyre condition, tyre pressure and a working lighting system also belong on the pre-purchase list. The coupling head with its wear-indicator ring, the overrun brake's breakaway cable and a working light socket also belong on the pre-purchase checklist.