Faqs Index Page

What does a floor point load rating mean?

Learn about floor point load ratings for commercial vehicle bodywork. Understand practical considerations, material strength, load distribution, and safety factors.

Published: Mon 18 Mar 2024
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is VECTO and how does it affect operators?

Learn how VECTO applies to HGV trailers (Classification O) for regulatory compliance, efficiency optimization, and market competitiveness.

Published: Fri 09 Feb 2024
Faqs / Sustainability

How does a roller brake test work?

Understand how HGV roller brake tests work! This guide explains the setup, testing process, and data analysis involved in ensuring optimal braking performance for heavy goods vehicles. Learn why these tests are crucial for road safety and compliance.

Published: Wed 07 Feb 2024
Faqs / Braking

What is GSR2 And How Does It Affect You?

New GSR2 regulations impact safety features and classifications for vans & HGVs (N & O categories). Get answers to key questions about mandatory & optional features, reclassification potential, and cost considerations.

Published: Fri 26 Jan 2024
Faqs / Regulations

What are the EU classification of vehicle types?

In Europe, vehicles are classified according to UN ECE Standards

Published: Fri 26 Jan 2024
Faqs / Product Knowledge

Teardrop Trailer Case Studies

The following Teardrop trailer fuel saving data has been gathered from independent sources including track trials and from real operations.

Published: Wed 24 Jan 2024
Faqs / Aerodynamics

Understanding Load Restraint

Don-Bur covers the key aspects of load restraint, your legal obligations and what options are available to optimise safety and maintain DVSA compliance.

Published: Tue 16 Jan 2024
Faqs / Load Restraint

Where can I find information about safe loading practices?

HGVs & safety: Crucial tips & resources to navigate loading/unloading dangers. Be informed, stay protected.

Published: Thu 11 Jan 2024
Faqs / Loading

Where can I find information about saving fuel?

Slash HGV fuel costs, boost profits, and drive sustainably. Discover expert tips, eco-driving techniques, and fuel-efficient upgrades today!

Published: Thu 11 Jan 2024
Faqs / Fuel

Do you have an ethics or code of conduct policy?

The Don-Bur consolidated Ethics & Code of Conduct policies can be found in the related content links below.

Published: Thu 11 Jan 2024
Faqs / Documentation

Do you have an environmental or sustainability report?

The Don-Bur Executive Environmental Report can be found in the related content links found below.

Published: Thu 11 Jan 2024
Faqs / Documentation

Do you have an anti-slavery policy?

The Don-Bur Anti-Slavery Policy can be found in the related content links below.

Published: Thu 11 Jan 2024
Faqs / Documentation

What are the main HGV regulations I need to be aware of?

The HGV industry is heavy regulated and you can find a number of links below to key regulatory documents.

Published: Thu 11 Jan 2024
Faqs / Regulations

What is a Raise/Lower Valve?

Discover the Raise/Lower Valve on HGV trailers - your key to adaptable heights, stable transportation, and efficient loading. Uncover the secrets behind this hydraulic marvel now!

Published: Fri 15 Dec 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What sort of panels do you use / sell?

Don-Bur uses and sells a variety of panels depending on suitability, recyclability, weight and cost.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

How high are bridges in the UK?

There are a wide variety of bridge heights in the UK and whilst most motorways and dual carriageways are likely to be suitable for most double deck trailers, many other roads may not.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Safety

Does Don-Bur service vans?

In 2022, Don-Bur opened a new light vehicle service centre in Stoke-on-Trent for the recovery, repair, servicing, diagnostics and MOTs of all light commercial vehicles.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / After Market

What documents are issued with new trailers?

New trailer docs: DVSA's VTG6, VTG7, CTS, and Type Approval's CoC. From March 20, 2023, DVSA issues electronic copies alongside hard copies. Don-Bur offers PDI sheets on demand.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Documentation

Does Don-Bur offer Lifting Deck maintenance training?

Don-Bur does provide certified advanced maintenance training for the Don-Bur Lifting Deck products.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / After Market

Directions to Don-Bur avoiding low bridges

Travelling to the Don-Bur Mossfield Road site commonly requires exit from the A50. This route avoids low bridges in Longton.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / About Don Bur

Can I make sure the driver couples up correctly?

Don-Bur's innovation, EBS-Safe, reinforces best practices for coupling, particularly the crucial ISO 7638 line connection. Enhancing safety in coupling and uncoupling procedures.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Coupling

231017 allied bakeries double deck trailer

What is "flap and valance"?

Flap and valance is a type of spray suppression system used typically in lieu of mudlflaps.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

Do you sell used trailers / second hand trailers?

Yes. Don-Bur sells a variety of used trailers, both Don-Bur and other manufacturer models.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / After Market

Does Don-Bur repair trailers?

Two sizable Don-Bur Service divisions provide full support for chassis straightening, repair, parts, shotblast, paint and livery where required.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / After Market

Does Don-Bur provide servicing, scheduled maintenance and MOT?

The two Don-Bur Service sites provide full support for scheduled servicing and preparation for MOT.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / After Market

Do you supply after-market parts?

After-market parts are available from our Parts Division, located in Stoke-on-Trent.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / After Market

Does Don-Bur provide finance?

Don-Bur can arrange finance solutions including finance lease, operating lease, contract hire or hire purchase.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Finance

What is a "skele"?

A skeletal chassis design typically used for carrying shipping containers.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

How many pallets can I fit onto a trailer?

The capacity and pallet footprint of any trailer depends on many factors. On this page, we highlight the different trailer types and the expected capacity.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a "De-Mount" or "Demountable Bodywork"?

A De-Mount is a type of special body which attaches temporarily to a rigid truck chassis but can be dropped at any location and stands on four legs.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What are HGV Trailer Couplings?

Trailer couplings refer to both the electrical and pneumatic lines that span between, and connect, the tractor unit and trailer.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What are "Barn Doors"?

The term "barn doors" is a widely used colloquial expression for rear doors that have the locking bar mechanism on the outside of the door.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What are "Nappy" and "Kite" Load Restraint Systems?

In the context of cargo securement, the terms "nappy" and "kite" refer to types of transverse load restraint systems, also known as cross straps or tie-downs.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

Got Questions about Bogies? We've Got Answers

A bogie, also known as a wheelset, is a modular subassembly of wheels and axles used to support and guide a vehicle along a track or surface.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a pelmet?

A pelmet is a rubberised flap that forms a weather seal between the roof rail and curtain on curtainsider bodies.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a Box Van?

Box Van is a term used for solid sided (panelled) bodies and trailers. This can be shortened to just vans although it does not relate to what the public would think of a van.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is an "under-run" or "underrun"?

An underrun, also known as a rear underride guard or bumper, is a structural reinforcement mounted at the rear of a trailer or rigid body vehicle.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a "Moffett"?

The term "Moffett" is a widely used abbreviation for a truck-mounted forklift, also known as a vehicle-mounted forklift (VMF) or lorry loader.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is "MHE": Materials Handling Equipment?

MHE stands for materials handling equipment. It is a broad term for a wide range of equipment used to move, store, and control materials and products.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a "PPT" / "LLOP"?

What is a PPT: Powered Pallet Truck?A powered pallet truck (PPT), also known as an electric pallet truck or walkie stacker, is a material handling equipment

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is "traction" in the HGV industry?

In the HGV industry, the term "traction" is informally used to refer to a tractor unit pulling a trailer.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a "Rigid"?

A rigid HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) is a large, non-articulated truck where the cargo-carrying body is permanently attached to the chassis.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a "shunter" or "tug"?

A tug, or shunter, is a powerful vehicle that is used to move railroad cars and other large vehicles around a railyard or industrial facility.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a "Draw-Bar" or "Drawbar"?

A Draw-Bar is an HGV combination which comprises a rigid truck body (The Prime Mover) and another specialised trailer (Draw-Bar trailer).

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

How do I calculate axle weights?

Don-Bur provides a free online tool that allows you to approximate the load on the axle set (bogie) with varying load types and weights.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a step-frame, swan-neck or goose-neck?

The swan-neck (or goose-neck) is a section of a trailer chassis where the height drops from a first level (to suit the fifth wheel height) to a second, lower level. These types of chassis are known as Step-Frames.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is the bed plate / rubbing plate?

The bed plate (or rubbing plate) is a heavy duty horizontal plate on the underside of the front of the trailer which is designed to sit and slide on top of the tractor fifth wheel. It houses the kingpin.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a Side Rave?

The side raves of a trailer are the outer side edges of the main trailer chassis.

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is an "FLT"?

FLT is an acronym for "Fork Lift Truck".

Published: Mon 20 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What are "Landing Legs"?

Landing Legs are a pair of heavy duty support legs, located behind the bed plate, which support the weight of the front of the trailer when the trailer is uncoupled.

Published: Mon 20 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a Kingpin?

A Kingpin is a heavy duty attachment pin that extends below the trailer bed plate. During coupling, this locks into the tractor unit fifth wheel.

Published: Mon 20 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What are "Suzies"?

"Suzies" refer to the coiled lines between the tractor unit and trailer. This Unipart copywrite term originates back to the "Suzie" Slinky toys and is in common use in the industry.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

How can I tell what size a tyre is?

Tyre size, load index and speed rating are defined by a number of variables which are displayed on the tyre label. We explain what these mean.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is "TIR"?

TIR stands for Transports Internationaux Routiers and is the only internationally accepted transit system.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What Is Split Coupling?

Split coupling is the frowned-upon practice of reversing the tractor fifth wheel under the trailer bed plate just enough to support the trailer but not enough to couple positively with the trailer kingpin.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

How tall are double deck trailers?

Don-Bur extends trailer height to 4.95m. UK allows unlimited height, but bridges usually clear 5.0292m. Double deckers maintain ~4" (101.6mm) for suspension "bump & roll."

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What Is An Expected Trailer Lifespan?

Trailers have 3 cycles: 10-12 years primary life, maintenance costs rise post that. Anticipated breakdown or repurposing after 20-22 years.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is a fifth wheel?

A fifth wheel is the horizontal coupling plate on a tractor unit which slides underneath the trailer bed plate during coupling. It has jaws which clamp onto the kingpin.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is an ECU?

Trailer ECU (Electronic Control Unit) powers via ISO 7638 from the tractor unit, managing braking and suspension.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What sort of tail-lifts (tail lifts) are there?

Tail-lift types: Tuckaway folds under chassis. Column has standard and two-tier options. Retractable slides from rear, needs space. Cantilever is a large platform stowing as rear closure, rotating for use. Explore more in our Feature Library.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is EN 12195?

EN 12195: European standard for commercial vehicle load restraint. Calculate strap strength and set testing standards for secure loads.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is EBPMS?

EBPMS stands for Electric Braking Performance Monitoring System and is a system to continually monitor how effective the brakes are at any given time.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What are the different types of landing leg feet?

Landing leg foot types: Wheeled, Flat, and Compensating Rocker. Explore options for stable and adaptable support.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

How does a hydraulic double deck work?

Don-Bur's 'Lifting Decks,' evolving since the late '80s, use hydraulic rams and cables for precise lifting. Electric-powered and resistant to jamming.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is an ISO 7638 Connection?

ISO 7638: Vital 7-pin electrical trailer coupling powering ECU, enabling fast braking, load sensing, and roll stability. Legally required since May 2002.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is RSP or RSS?

RSP/RSS in new braking systems prevents rollovers. Knorr-Bremse feature reacts to lateral acceleration, tests wheel state, and controls oscillations for stability.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is Trailer Rollaway?

Prevent trailer rollaway risks! Learn why applying park brakes is crucial. Don-Bur's infographic explains trailer air brakes to enhance safety during coupling. Follow proper procedures

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is Vehicle Type Approval?

Ensure vehicle compliance with Type Approval. 'E' marks and Certificates of Conformity validate standards. VCA oversees EU WVTA, NSSTA, and IVA in the UK.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is the difference between C type and Palm type couplings?

Air line connections: C couplings in the UK. Palm couplings in Europe. Adapters may be needed for UK-EU tractor-trailer connections.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is EN 12640?

BS EN 12640 sets standards for commercial vehicle lashing points. Ensure compliance with design, construction, and positioning criteria for secure goods transport.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

What is "EBS"?

EBS: Electronic Braking System, upgraded from ABS. Requires active ISO 7638 connection; loss leads to default full air-signal braking.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Product Knowledge

Do you have an out-of-hours breakdown number?

Don-Bur has a 24hr support line number: +44 (0)845 305 5428

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / About Don Bur

How do I contact Sales?

To contact sales at the main Mossfield Road Head Office, you can call +44(0)1782 599 666 or e-mail sales@donbur.co.uk

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / About Don Bur

Who do I speak to about warranty?

For warranty claims, please contact Wayne Porter on 07747 788 093 (wayne.porter@donbur.co.uk)

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / About Don Bur

Does Don-Bur provide apprenticeships?

Don-Bur offers diverse apprenticeships with NSEG Training. Engineering programs from entry to Graduate level 4. Contact Lisa Blake at lisa.blake@donbur.co.uk or 01782 599 666.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Employment

Have you got any jobs/ career vacancies?

The majority of our open employment positions are listed at www.donbur.co.uk/jobs. You will also find online or downloadable application forms for convenience.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Employment

Do you make and sell PVC curtains?

The Sapphire Curtains & Load Restraint division manufactures (and installs) PVC curtains for application onto curtainsided trailers and rigid bodywork.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Curtains

Can you design and make livery and graphics?

Sapphire Graphics specializes in designing and producing diverse livery and decal solutions, from small stickers to full-colour PVC curtain prints.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Graphics

Where can I find wiring diagrams?

Wiring diagrams can be obtained from our electrical department depending on their sensitivity.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Documentation

Where can I get LOLER/Weight Test Certificates/ inspections from?

Please contact Ken Ford or Andy Podmore at out Boothen Road Site on +44(0)1782 749 111

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Documentation

Do You Have Data Sheets?

Don-Bur retains a number of documents depending on the date of manufacture. These are not available online but can be released to the asset owners or nominated contractors.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Documentation

What is TPMS and "Reg 141"?

TPMS required in new EU trailer types from July 2022. Mandatory for all registered trailers by July 7, 2024. GB NSSTA and IVA exemptions. TPRS and CTIS considered equivalents.

Published: Fri 17 Nov 2023
Faqs / Tpms

Legally, What Is The Biggest Trailer?

Trailer dimensions follow Road Vehicles (Construction In Use) 1986. LSTs allowed up to 15.65m. LHVs under consideration, not yet legal in the UK.

Published: Wed 15 Nov 2023
Faqs / Regulations

Mandatory laden brake testing will be enforced from 1 Jan 2023

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is today reminding vehicle operators that most goods vehicles and trailers will have to be appropriately laden for their annual test from 1 January 2023 onwards.

Published: Wed 15 Nov 2023
Faqs / Regulations

Are LSTs legal yet?

On 31 June 2023, an amendment to The Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) (General) Order 2023 came into force, allowing Longer Semi Trailers to be operated on UK roads.

Published: Wed 15 Nov 2023
Faqs / Masses And Dimensions

Do you make and supply load restraint / straps / nets?

The Sapphire Curtains and Load Restraint division manufactures the complete range of load restraint solutions to suit individual needs.

Published: Tue 14 Nov 2023
Faqs / Load Restraint

What is EN 12642-XL?

BS EN 12642:2016 (L & XL) is a certified European load containment standard confirming the compliance of complete body structure of commercial vehicle bodies and trailers.

Published: Tue 14 Nov 2023
Faqs / Load Restraint

Axle Load Calculation Curtainsided Trailer

What payload weight can I carry on a trailer?

Trailer payload depends on GVW. UK max is 44,000kgs; Europe varies with axles. Example: 44t GVW = 28,000kgs payload. Consider TARE weight for accurate calculations.

Published: Tue 14 Nov 2023
Faqs / Regulations

What are the frequencies for Lifting Deck maintenance?

Lifting deck maintenance guide: Rope lubrication every 12-13 weeks, rope and pulley change every 5-6 years, hydraulic oil filter change annually, and hydraulic oil change every 3 years.

Published: Tue 14 Nov 2023
Faqs / Maintenance

When is my first trailer MOT due?

First trailer examination mandated by Goods Vehicles (Plating and Testing) Regulations 1988 within one year from sale or supply. Ensure compliance for regulatory adherence.

Published: Tue 14 Nov 2023
Faqs / Regulations

What is an ISO Neck Profile?

An ISO neck refers to ISO 1726 which is a standard covering dimensions, angles and gaps between a tractor and a trailer to ensure that there is no risk of fouling between the two.

Published: Tue 14 Nov 2023
Faqs / Masses And Dimensions

What level of wear/damage is acceptable on an EN 12642-XL curtain?

Load-bearing risk: PVC tears of 75mm+ repaired with patches. Webbing strap tears of 10mm+ require curtain removal, replacement, and strap repair.

Published: Tue 14 Nov 2023
Faqs / Curtains

Do you make or sell EN 12642-XL Curtains?

EN 12642-XL is a body standard, not a curtain rating. Sapphire Curtains supplies curtains for EN 12642-XL bodies. Visit www.sapphirecurtains.co.uk or call +44(0)1782 317 009.

Published: Tue 14 Nov 2023
Faqs / Curtains

Is there a new Guide to Maintaining Road Worthiness?

A new updated guide was published on the 18th April 2023. A copy of it can be found in the link below.

Published: Tue 14 Nov 2023
Faqs / Regulations

Where can I find the User Manual / Instructions for...?

Some generic manuals can be found in the related content section below. Other manuals may be available from us directly.

Published: Mon 13 Nov 2023
Faqs / Manuals

Where can I find your insurance cover documents / certificate?

Our current insurance details can be found below.

Published: Mon 13 Nov 2023
Faqs / Documentation

What is the correct action for a Red/Amber cab warning lamp?

The ABS/EBS warning lamp (Malfunction Indicator Light 'MIL') can show either an yellow or red state.

Published: Mon 13 Nov 2023
Faqs / Procedures

What are the Maximum Axle Bogie Weights permitted in the UK?

Maximum permissible plated bogie weights depend on the number of axles and the limits of the axle itself. Axles are commonly rated at 9,000kgs but this cannot be used as a guide as axle types vary.

Published: Fri 06 Oct 2023
Faqs / Masses And Dimensions

What is the correct coupling & uncoupling code of practice

Coupling and uncoupling the correct way in the right order is critically important to ensure that all trailer functions operate correctly and avoid unnecessary accidents.

Published: Fri 20 Apr 2018
Faqs / Coupling

FAQs