Pallet standards and pooling systems in UK and European logistics
Guide to UK and European pallet standards, CHEP and GKN pooling systems, and how pallet choice affects vehicles, loading, racking and warehouses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Welcome to our FAQ and Knowledge Library – a comprehensive resource designed to help you navigate the world of commercial vehicles, transport regulations, and industry best practices.
From understanding complex legislation to exploring the latest innovations in vehicle design, our library covers a wide range of topics including:
- Regulatory compliance and enforcement
- Technical “how-to” guides
- Industry terminology explained
- Practical advice for operators and fleet managers
- Answers to common product-related queries
Whether you're looking for a quick answer or in-depth insights, we’re here to make the complex simple.
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ADR regulations explained for dry freight vehicles
Plain-language explanation of ADR regulations, including scope, vehicle requirements and hazard classification for road transport.
Operator Compliance Risk Score (OCRS) explained
Clear explanation of the Operator Compliance Risk Score (OCRS), how it is calculated, what it measures, and how it influences DVSA enforcement activity.
Maintenance Provision Rating Scheme (MPRS) explained
Clear explanation of the Maintenance Provision Rating Scheme (MPRS), who it is for, how it works, and how it supports maintenance quality and roadworthiness.
Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) explained
Clear explanation of the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS), how it works, who it is for, and how it supports fleet safety and compliance.
LOLER compliance for lifting deck trailers
How LOLER applies to lifting deck trailers, recommended examination intervals, strength, stability and safe operation guidance.
Conspicuity Markings for Commercial Vehicle Bodywork
Guidance on retro-reflective conspicuity markings for commercial vehicle bodies: what it is, the requirements under UNECE R104, and best practices.
HGV Combination Length Extension | Cab, Aero & Safety
Guide to HGV combination length rules under UK/EU law. Covers elongated cabs, trailer limits, and aerodynamic rear devices.
Turning Circle Requirements for HGV Trailers
Guide to HGV trailer turning circles: 8,135 mm wheelbase limit, payload distribution, urban trailer geometry & LST physical test requirements.
Where are VIN stamps and chassis plates | What do they show?
On Don-Bur trailers the VIN is stamped into the offside chassis I-beam, while the nearside chassis plate repeats the VIN and lists plating and weight data.
How We Use Steel in Commercial Vehicle Manufacturing
How we use structural steel in trailer manufacturing — from grades and galvanising to fabrication and lightweight design optimisation.
How Should You Clean a Trailer Floor?
Clear guidance on how to clean phenolic-coated plywood floors in dry freight trailers. Learn the correct method, safe cleaning products, and what to avoid
Trailer Steering Axles Explained: Self, Positive & Command Steer
Understand trailer steering axles including self-steer, positive steer and command steer to reduce tyre scrub and improve manoeuvrability.
Understanding the UK Direct Vision Standard (DVS)
Stay compliant with London's Direct Vision Standard (DVS). Learn about star ratings, Safe Systems, and the 2024 Progressive Safe System upgrade.
How Exactly Do HGV Trailer Brakes Work?
Learn how HGV trailer brakes work, including air supply lines, dual-chamber actuators, ABS, EBS, and emergency braking for safe and efficient operation.
What are the benefits of trailer contract leasing?
Explore the benefits of contract trailer leasing with Don-Bur and selected trusted partners, offering flexibility, cost control, and access to modern trailers.
Historical Trends in UK Bulk Diesel Prices (Net Derv)
Explore the comprehensive history of bulk diesel prices in the UK since 2007, including trends and data visualizations. Stay informed about fuel price movements
Protection For Your Don-Bur Trailer: A Comprehensive Guide
Discover how Don-Bur trailers withstand the harshest weather. Learn about our protective measures, including spray zincing, IP ratings, and paint technology.
What Rope Lubricant Is Recommended For Lifting Decks?
Recommended rope lubricant for lifting decks, with application tips, inspection advice, and maintenance guidance to prolong equipment life.
Transformers | Understanding Power Needs for Lifting Decks
Learn how lifting deck trailers are powered, why a stable 24V supply is critical, and how bay-supplied 415V AC is converted using transformers for reliable operation.
Are there any regulations for trailer rollover stability?
Learn about trailer rollover stability regulations and how they impact trailer design, including the role of ECE R111 | lateral acceleration | centre of gravity
What is a trailer suspension air bag | What are they for?
Air bag suspension is the standard choice for UK trailers. Learn about its advantages: smoother ride, adjustable loading height and potential for increased GVW.
What are thermoplastic mudguards?
Thermoplastic mudguards are durable, lightweight and regulation-compliant options for HGV trailers. Learn about their benefits and available configurations.
Confused by Floor Point Load Ratings? We Have the Answers!
Learn about floor point load ratings for commercial vehicles. Understand practical considerations, material strength, load distribution, and safety factors.
The Future of Trucking is Here: Understanding VECTO's Impact
Learn how VECTO applies to HGV trailers (Classification O) for regulatory compliance, efficiency optimization, and market competitiveness.
Roller Brake Test | Your Guide to Vehicle Braking Assessment
Understand how HGV roller brake tests work! This guide explains setup, testing and data analysis involved in ensuring optimal braking performance for HGVs.
GSR2: EU Safety Regulation 2019/2144 for N & O Vehicles
GSR2 Explained | Understand the General Safety Regulations 2019/2144 for N and O vehicles. Learn how these rules impact your vehicle's safety standards.
EU Vehicle Classification for Goods Vehicles and Trailers
Clear guidance on EU vehicle classification for goods vehicles and trailers, including N1–N3 and O3–O4 categories defined under UN ECE and EU legislation.
Aerodynamic Teardrop Trailer Case Studies & Trials
The following aerodynamic Teardrop trailer fuel saving data has been gathered from independent sources including track trials and from real operations.
Load Restraint Requirements for Heavy Goods Vehicles
Authoritative guidance on UK HGV load restraint, covering legal duties, Regulation 100, DVSA expectations and key EN standards, including 2024 updates.
Safe Loading Practices: A Guide for Hauliers & Operators
HGVs & safety: Crucial tips & resources to navigate loading/unloading dangers for hauliers and operators. Be informed, stay protected. Contact us today!
How can I reduce my HGV fuel costs?
Cut fuel costs and emissions with practical HGV efficiency tips. Discover how smarter driving and tech upgrades can boost profits, safety, and sustainability.
UK HGV Regulations for Drivers and Operators Explained
Clear overview of UK HGV regulations covering operator licensing, drivers hours, tachographs, safety, maintenance, emissions, clean air zones and compliance.
What are the Brake Park/Shunt valves and what do they do?
Park and shunt valves are key components of HGV trailer air braking systems | Safeguards trailers from unintended movement and maintaining air pressure balance.
What is a Suspension Raise/Lower Valve and How Does it Work?
A suspension raise/lower valve allows manual height adjustment on HGV trailers equipped with air suspension. Learn how it works and when it’s used.
Understanding Bridge Heights in the UK
Understand UK bridge height standards, why clearances vary, and how drivers and operators can prevent bridge strikes with safe route planning.
What Documents Are Issued With New Trailers?
Guide to documents supplied with new UK trailers, including VTG6, VTG7, CTS and Type Approval CoCs, plus PDI sheets and DVSA requirements.
Does Don-Bur Provide Lifting Deck Maintenance Training?
Don-Bur offers certified Lifting Deck maintenance training for technicians and service partners. Email ken.ford@donbur.co.uk for availability.
What Are the HGV Directions to Don-Bur Avoiding Low Bridges
Download HGV-specific directions to Don-Bur avoiding low bridges in Longton. Suitable for high vehicles including double decks and articulated trailers.
How can I ensure HGV drivers couple up correctly?
Discover how Don-Bur systems like EBS-Safe and Leg-Safe promote safer HGV coupling by warning drivers and preventing critical connection errors.
What is "Flap and Valance"?
Flap and valance is a type of spray suppression system used typically in lieu of mudlflaps.
Does Don-Bur sell used trailers / second-hand trailers?
Don-Bur offers a selection of used trailers, including Don-Bur models and second-hand units. View current stock or contact our Used Trailer Manager.
Does Don-Bur repair trailers that have been damaged?
Two sizable Don-Bur Service divisions provide full support for chassis straightening, repair, parts, shotblast, paint and livery where required.
Does Don-Bur provide servicing, maintenance and MOT?
Don-Bur offers full servicing, maintenance, MOT prep and testing at our DVSA ATF site in Stoke. Contact Ken or Andy for bookings and enquiries.
Does Don-Bur supply after-market parts?
Don-Bur offers after-market parts for trailers and rigids. Contact our Parts Division or go online at donburparts.co.uk. VIN and photos help speed enquiries.
Don-Bur | Finance Packages To Suit Every Operator
Don-Bur can arrange finance solutions including finance lease, operating lease, contract hire or hire purchase.
What is a 'skele' or skeletal trailer?
A skeletal trailer is a lightweight chassis with twistlocks used to carry ISO containers. Learn how these purpose-built trailers support intermodal transport.
How many pallets can you fit on a trailer?
A standard 13.7m curtainsider fits 26 UK or 33 Euro pallets. Double deck trailers can carry up to 52 UK / 66 Euro, step-frames typically 44 UK / 56 Euro, and LST double decks up to 60 UK / 76 Euro pallets.
HGV Trailer Couplings: Types, Safety & Coupling Procedures
Your complete guide to HGV trailer couplings – types, UK & European systems, and step-by-step coupling procedures to improve safety and compliance.
What are "Nappy" and "Kite" Load Restraint Systems?
A guide to "nappy" and "kite" load restraint systems — reinforced mesh sheets designed to prevent front-to-back load movement in trailers.
What exactly is an HGV Bogie?
What is an HGV bogie? Learn how multi-axle bogie setups improve load distribution, vehicle stability, and legal compliance for trailers and rigids.
What is a pelmet and why is it needed?
A pelmet is a rubberised flap that forms a weather seal between the roof rail and curtain on curtainsider bodies.
What is an HGV underrun and why does it matter?
Clear explanation of HGV rear underrun protection, its safety purpose, and how UNECE Regulation R58-03 governs design, testing and compliance in the UK.
What is a "Moffett"?
The term "Moffett" is a widely used type of truck-mounted forklift, also known as a vehicle-mounted forklift (VMF) or lorry loader.
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.
What is a "PPT" or a "LLOP" for materials handling?
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
What is "traction" in the HGV logistics industry?
In the HGV industry, the term "traction" informally refers to a tractor unit pulling an articulated trailer. It's a common expression in transport & logistics.
What is a "Rigid" body?
A rigid HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) is a large, non-articulated truck where the cargo-carrying body is permanently attached to the chassis.
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.
How do I calculate trailer axle load weights?
Learn how trailer axle loads are calculated using static equilibrium, support reactions and geometry — plus access Don-Bur’s free online load calculator.
What is an HGV trailer step-frame, swan-neck or goose-neck?
A step-frame trailer has a lowered main deck to increase internal height. The raised front section is known as the swan-neck or goose-neck due to its shape.
What is the trailer "bed plate" or "rubbing plate"?
The trailer bed plate or rubbing plate is a steel surface that rests on the tractor’s fifth wheel, allowing movement and supporting vertical load.
What is an HGV trailer Side Rave?
The side rave is a key chassis member on trailers, anchoring curtain buckles and load restraints on curtainsiders, and body panels on box vans.
What is an "FLT"?
FLT is an acronym for "Fork Lift Truck".
What are trailer "Landing Legs"?
Trailer landing legs stabilise the front of a trailer when uncoupled from a tractor. Learn how they work and the difference between manual and powered options.
What is a trailer "Kingpin"?
Understand what a trailer kingpin is, how it connects to the fifth wheel, and why it’s critical for safe HGV coupling and weight transfer.
What are trailer coupling "Suzies"?
Suzies are coiled air and electrical lines connecting a tractor to a trailer. Learn how they work and where the name “Suzie” originally came from.
How to Read Tyre Sizes and Markings
Clear guidance on reading HGV tyre markings such as 385/65 R22.5 160K, including width, aspect ratio, construction, rim size, load index and speed rating.
What is 'TIR' on commercial trailers?
What TIR approval means for HGV trailers: build rules, sealing points, curtainsider specifics, approval plates, in-service markings and re-inspection requirements.
How tall are double deck trailers?
Double deck trailers in the UK can be built up to 4.95m. EU limits are 4.0m max, so deck heights vary based on loading method and aperture required.
What Is An Expected Commercial Trailer Lifespan?
A well-maintained commercial trailer can last 20–22 years, with 10–12 years of primary use followed by a second life in lower-intensity or overseas markets.
What is an HGV tractor fifth wheel?
The fifth wheel is the coupling on an HGV tractor that locks onto the trailer kingpin, enabling articulation, weight transfer, and safe towing.
What is an HGV trailer ECU?
An HGV trailer ECU controls systems like EBS, ABS, and air suspension. Powered via ISO 7638, it enhances safety by adapting braking and suspension in real time.
What Sort of HGV Trailer Tail-Lifts Are There?
HGV trailer tail-lifts include tuckaway, column, retractable, and cantilever types — each suited to different deck layouts and loading operations.
EN 12195 Load Restraint Standard Explained
Clear explanation of EN 12195 load restraint standard, including Part 1 calculations and Part 2 lashing strap label requirements for compliance.
EBPMS | Electronic Braking Performance Monitoring System
EBPMS stands for Electric Braking Performance Monitoring System and is a system to continually monitor how effective the brakes are at any given time.
What are the different types of HGV landing leg feet?
Common types of trailer landing leg feet include wheeled, flat, and compensating rocker feet — each suited to different ground and loading conditions.
How does a hydraulic double deck trailer 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.
What is HGV Trailer Roll Stability? (RSS, RSP or RSC)
Understand how trailer rollover prevention systems like RSS, RSP and RSC work, including key stages, sensor input, and driver safety insights.
What is HGV Trailer Rollaway And Why Does It Happen?
Prevent trailer rollaway risks! Learn why applying park brakes is crucial. Don-Bur's infographic explains trailer air brakes to enhance safety during coupling.
What is Commercial HGV Trailer 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.
EN 12640 load restraint and lashing point standard
Plain-English guidance on BS EN 12640 lashing point requirements, including definitions, compliance criteria and how the standard supports safe load restraint.
Does Don-Bur have an out-of-hours number for breakdowns?
Need help outside working hours? Call Don-Bur’s 24hr breakdown support on +44 (0)845 305 5428. Have the trailer VIN or rigid body number ready when calling.
Apprenticeships at Don-Bur
Apprenticeships at Don-Bur with NSEG, Train'd Up and Martec. Earn while you learn in engineering, manufacturing or business support. See Jobs for openings or email hr@donbur.co.uk.
Does Don-Bur manufacture and sell PVC curtains?
We manufacture and install custom PVC curtains for trailers and rigids, including XL-rated, printed, mesh-lined, and secure options. Call us to learn more.
Can you design and produce livery and graphics?
Discover Sapphire Graphics — Don-Bur’s in-house team creating vehicle livery from small vinyls to full-colour printed curtains, all tailored to your brand.
Where can I find wiring diagrams & schematics?
Wiring diagrams can be obtained from our electrical department depending on their sensitivity.
Where can I get LOLER/weight test certificates/ inspections from?
Need LOLER or weight test certificates? Contact Don-Bur’s Boothen Road Service Site directly for inspection records and documentation.
Request Don-Bur Trailer Build Records and Data Sheets
Request official Don-Bur build records, specifications, Certificates of Conformity, PDI sheets and inspection documents for verified asset owners.
Understanding TPMS / Tyre Pressure Monitoring And Reg 141
Under UN ECE R141, TPMS is required in new EU trailer types from July 2022. It is mandatory for all registered trailers by July 7, 2024. Exemptions apply in UK.
Legally, What Is The Biggest HGV / Trailer?
Find out the legal size limits for HGVs and trailers in the UK, including combination lengths, heights, widths, and aerodynamic allowances.
Are LSTs legal in the UK yet?
LSTs have been authorised in Great Britain since 31 May 2023. Find out how the STGO framework works, operator obligations, and the end of the trial scheme.
Do you make and supply load restraint / straps / nets?
Discover our full range of custom load restraint solutions, including straps, nets and bungee systems — all manufactured to EN 12195 standards by Sapphire.
EN 12642-XL Load Containment Standard Explained
Clear guidance on EN 12642-XL load containment, positive-fit loading, dynamic testing and DVSA expectations for commercial vehicle bodies.
What payload weight can I carry on an HGV trailer?
Learn how to calculate payload weight on an HGV trailer, considering gross vehicle weight (GVW/GCW) and UK legal limits for safe and compliant transport.
What are the frequencies for Lifting Deck maintenance?
Find typical maintenance intervals for lifting decks, including rope lubrication, hydraulic servicing, and replacement cycles for key components.
When is my first HGV MOT due?
First trailer examination mandated by Goods Vehicles (Plating and Testing) Regulations 1988 within one year from sale or supply.
What is an ISO neck profile on a trailer? (ISO 1726)
Explore what an ISO neck profile is, how ISO 1726 ensures tractor-trailer compatibility, and the effects of kingpin position, BEVs, and urban trailer design.
DVSA Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness | 28 April 2025
Discover the key April 2025 updates to the DVSA Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness, including brake testing, MPRS, recalls, and compliance duties.
How to Access Don-Bur Manuals and Instructions
Find out how to access Don-Bur user manuals and technical documents, including password-protected lifting deck instructions. Support and contact details provided.
Don-Bur company insurance cover
Read about Don-Bur's Employers', Public and Products Liability insurance cover and how to access the latest certificates via the related links section.
Correct Action for Red or Amber ABS/EBS Warning Lamps on HGVs
Understand the correct driver actions for amber and red ABS/EBS warning lamps on HGV trailers, including enforcement expectations and legal context.
What are the maximum Trailer axle bogie weights permitted in the UK?
Trailer axle bogie weight limits in the UK depend on axle count and rating. Learn the maximum legal weights for 1, 2, and 3-axle trailer configurations.
A Guide to Aerodynamics - How It Affects HGVs
Fuel consumption is primarily attributable to 3 things: (1) resistance to inertia, (2) rolling resistance and (3) aerodynamics.
