A guide to towing with a van
What are the towing laws in the UK?
When it comes to towing and transporting goods by road, a van is an ideal vehicle. That said, there are a few important factors to consider when towing a trailer with a van. These range from the vehicle’s rated towing weight, the type of trailer and the type of licence required. Read on to learn everything you need to know about towing with a van safely.
Before you start towing with your van, you’ll need to know the weight of both the vehicle and trailer, also known as the ‘maximum authorised mass’ or MAM for short.
As well as weight, you must also look out for the dimensions. In the UK, the maximum width of a trailer is 2.55 metres, no matter the towing vehicle. If your van’s MAM is less than 3,500kg, then the maximum length is 7 metres. However, if your vehicle’s MAM is more than 3,500kg, then the maximum lengths are as follows:
- 12 metres for the trailer
- 18 metres for the vehicle and trailer combined
- 05 metres for how far the load can overhang the back of the trailer (whatever the length of the trailer is)
How do I find out my van towing capacity?
All vans have a limit on the size of trailer they can tow and the weight of contents. This depends on the model of van, so your best option is to check the handbook to identify the specifics. The van towing capacity must not exceed 85% of its kerb weight, which is calculated by totalling the weight of the vehicle including all standard equipment, a full tank of fuel, oil, and coolant, but excluding the weight of passengers and any items in the loading bay. 
One important point to note when towing with a van is that if the Gross Vehicle Weight, or GVW for short, exceeds 750kg, the trailer must be fitted with its own brakes.
What van can tow 3,500kg?
Again, this will vary depending on the make and model, so the first port of call should be the handbook or the manufacturer’s website. A great example is the Volkswagen Crafter. The Rear-Wheel-Drive models can tow 3,500kg.
How to couple and uncouple a trailer
Correctly coupling your trailer is crucial for safe towing with a van, so we’d strongly advise referring to the manufacturer’s guide. When towing a trailer with a van, there are some important checks to carry out:
- Always check that the van and trailer connection is solid.
- Check that the towball or pin is positioned correctly in their housings. There shouldn’t be any movement when attempting to wiggle them.
- Always check that the towbar is level. It should not be angled.
- Check that the breakaway cable is attached securely.
- Check that the load you are towing is secure and evenly distributed.
- Always ensure that the electrical plug is connected, and that lights and indicators are functioning. An incorrectly coupled trailer poses a threat to other drivers, as the trailer is more likely to detach.
What licence do I need for towing with a van?
If you passed your driving test before January 1997, then you’re in luck. You’re licensed to drive while towing, providing the combined weight does not exceed 8,250kg. On the other hand, if you hold a license obtained after January 1997, you are allowed to drive a vehicle weighing up to 3.5 tonnes and tow up to 750kg. If you wish to exceed these limits, you will need to take an additional test.
Do I need towing mirrors on a van?
The UK government state that you must fit suitable mirrors if the trailer, caravan, or whatever you are towing is wider than the rear of the van. Not only can you be fined up to £1,000 and receive 3 penalty points if found towing without sufficient towing mirrors, but you also want a good view of the road behind for your own safety.
Do I need a tachograph when towing with a van?
A tachograph automatically records speed and distance travelled, along with your driving activity. If you are towing for business purposes, with a towing weight exceeding 3,500kg, then a tachograph is required. This helps comply with regulations that limit the number of hours a person is permitted to drive in a commercial capacity.
Top tips for towing with a van
Understand the individual and combined weights of the vehicle and trailer
When towing with a van, it’s important to understand both the individual and combined weights of your vehicle and trailer. Every vehicle has a maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW), which is the maximum weight limit including the van itself, passengers, fuel, and cargo.
Additionally, the trailer has its own gross trailer weight (GTW), which is the total weight of the trailer plus its contents. The combined weight of both the van and trailer must not exceed the maximum authorised mass, which is set by the manufacturer. Exceeding these limits can impact vehicle handling, braking performance, and may lead to legal penalties.
Always check these weights before hitting the road to ensure a safe towing experience. These will be listed in the owner’s manual.
Allow more distance to brake safely
The additional weight of a trailer increases stopping distance significantly. The extra load means that the breaks must work harder to bring the vehicle to a halt. To reduce the risk of accidents, increase the gap between you and the vehicle ahead so that you have adequate time to react. This is particularly important in poor weather conditions.
Take a wider and slower line around corners
The additional length and weight with a trailer attached means taking care on corners is crucial. Towing increases the risk of collisions or jack-knifing. By slowing down and giving yourself more room, you will reduce the strain on both the van and trailer and keep the load balanced and under control.
Stick to the speed limits
When towing, exceeding the speed limit not only increases the risk of accidents but also affects the van’s handling and braking distance. In the UK, the speed limit for vehicles towing trailers is 60 mph on motorways and dual carriageways, and 50 mph on single carriageways. Staying within the speed limits ensures better control over your vehicle and improves fuel efficiency, making your journey safer and more cost-effective.
What are the best vans for towing?
Looking for the best van for towing? Here are our recommendations:
Ford Transit Custom
The Ford Transit Custom is one of the best cargo vans for towing. A range of powerful diesel engines are available. For example, the 2-litre EcoBlue offers up to 167 horsepower and can tow up to 2,500kg, sufficient for most towing applications. The Transit Custom also offers a large and flexible cargo area, making it perfect for various uses, from construction to leisure.
Volkswagen Transporter
The Volkswagen Transporter offers a strong towing capacity, with some models able to tow up to 2,500kg. It also benefits from VW’s reputation for reliability, making it a solid choice for both businesses and sole-traders who rely on their van to operate.
Mercedes Benz Sprinter
Another great option is the Mercedes Benz Sprinter. This van offers a range of powerful diesel and petrol engines, making it easy to tow heavy loads. The extra torque means that steep uphill climbs and long-distance hauling is a breeze. The Mercedes Benz Sprinter’s towing capacity is Some Sprinter models come with advanced driver assistance technologies such as Trailer Stability Assist, which helps prevent trailer sway, and rear-view cameras to make hitching a trailer easier.
Get the best towing van with Synergy
Want to know more? Contact Synergy’s Van Leasing Consultants today to discuss the best lease options for your needs.
