Trailers, Vehicle weights and the language used?

[Chris_w666]

I have used the search and google but am still a little confused by the rules regarding trailers or more specificallly why the DVLA talk about MAM (Maximum authorised mass) but vehicle manufacturers and trailer manufacturers don't, or at least the ones I have found don't seem to.

So from the following numbers which should I be looking at as relevant to finding a total MAM?

Trailer - Gross Weight 1550kg or Unladed weight 550kg

Vehicle - Gross Vehicle Mass 3000 KG or Kerb Mass 2150kg or Gross Train Mass 4500kg

[bzh1p9]

GVW GCW = MAM

[Chris_w666]

GCW?

[Snoop Bagg]

Just take it to your local weighbridge they may even do it for free. If you were in the North West we've a public weighbridge, manufacturers weights do vary surprisingly!

[Chris_w666]

If it was just one vehicle and trailer I would do but I am trying to work out which of 4 can tow which of our 8 trailers and then which drivers can tow each trailer.

[bzh1p9]

sorry mate

GVW = gross vehicle weight max weight of vehicle permitted inc vehicle load driver and fuel

GCW = gross combination weight the max weight permitted by prime mover and trailer inc vehicle , load driver fuel sandwiches etc

If you are looking at LCV ( van )and towing for buisness don't cross the magic 3500Kg mark , or you will be into all sorts of malarky ie tacho etc etc

pps also be aware of the change in driving licence entitlements which changed a few years back , which means younger drivers will have to take an additional test to tow , us older farts have that entitlement by grandfather rights

HtH