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
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.
Still can’t find what you’re looking for?
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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.
FAQ | 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.
FAQ: 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.
FAQ: Does Don-Bur publish their emissions and SECR data?
Learn about Don-Bur's commitment to sustainability through our published SECR data, including Scope 1 and 2 emissions, efficiency efforts, and annual reporting.
FAQs | 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
Q: Does Don-Bur have a labour & human rights policy?
Explore Don-Bur's Labour and Human Rights Policy to understand our commitment to fair and ethical practices. Access our comprehensive consolidated reports.
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?
FAQ about recommended lubricant for lifting deck ropes. Learn about the best lubricant, application, and where to purchase it. Ensure optimal rope performance.
Transformers | Understanding Power Needs for Lifting Decks
Learn about the different power supply options available, and the advantages and drawbacks of using transformers. Contact us at customerservice@donbur.co.uk.
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?
Ensure your HGV trailer complies with spray suppression regulations. Learn about the advantages and applications of thermoplastic mudguards for HGV trailers.
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 | The Next Generation of Vehicle Safety Regulations
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: A Guide To Vehicle Categories
In Europe, vehicles are classified according to UN ECE Standards
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.
Understanding Load Restraint For Heavy Goods Vehicles
Don-Bur covers the key aspects of load restraint, your legal obligations and what options are available to optimise safety and maintain DVSA compliance.
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!
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!
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.
Do you have an environmental or sustainability report?
The Don-Bur Executive Environmental Report can be found in the related content links found below.
Do you have an anti-slavery policy?
The Don-Bur Anti-Slavery Policy can be found in the related content links below.
Key HGV Regulations | Guide for Drivers & Operators
The HGV industry is heavy regulated and you can find a number of links below to key regulatory documents.
Q: 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 what does it do?
Discover the raise/lower valve on HGV trailers - your key to adaptable heights, stable transportation, and efficient loading. Uncover the secrets now!
Understanding Bridge Heights 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.
FAQ | What Documents Are Issued With New Trailers
New trailer docs: VTG6, VTG7, CTS, and Type Approval's CoC. From March 20, 2023, DVSA issues electronic & hard copies. Don-Bur offers PDI sheets on demand.
Lifting Deck Maintenance Training
Don-Bur does provide certified advanced maintenance training for the Don-Bur Lifting Deck products.
HGV 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.
Can I make sure that HGV drivers couple 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.
What is "Flap and Valance"?
Flap and valance is a type of spray suppression system used typically in lieu of mudlflaps.
Q: Does Don-Bur sell used trailers / second hand trailers?
Yes. Don-Bur sells a variety of used trailers, both Don-Bur and other manufacturer models.
Q: 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, scheduled maintenance and MOT?
The two Don-Bur Service sites provide full support for scheduled servicing and preparation for MOT.
Do you supply after-market parts?
After-market parts are available from our Parts Division, located in Stoke-on-Trent.
What finance packages does Don-Bur offer?
Don-Bur can arrange finance solutions including finance lease, operating lease, contract hire or hire purchase.
What is a skeletal trailer?
A skeletal chassis design typically used for carrying shipping containers.
How many pallets can you fit on 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.
HGV Trailer Couplings: UK/European Electrical + Air Systems
Explore the different types of HGV trailer couplings including UK suzies, ISO, Duomatic and Palm systems. Know what each does and where they’re used.
What are "Barn Doors" on trailers?
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.
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.
Q: What Exactly Is An HGV Bogie?
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.
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.
Q: 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.
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.
Q: 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.
Q: 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
Q: 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.
Q: 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.
Q: 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?
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.
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.
What is the trailer "bed plate" or "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.
What is a trailer Side Rave?
The side raves of a trailer are the outer side edges of the main trailer chassis.
Q: What is an "FLT"?
FLT is an acronym for "Fork Lift Truck".
What are trailer "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.
What is a trailer "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.
What are trailer coupling "Suzies"?
"Suzies" refer to the coiled lines between the tractor unit and trailer. This Unipart copyright term originates back to the "Suzie" Slinky toys and is in common use in the industry.
How can I tell what size a tyre is and what are the other markings?
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.
What is "TIR" on commercial trailers?
TIR cables are specialized components used in international road transport to secure cargo in sealed compartments. They help ensure tamper-proof transport across borders under the TIR system, streamlining customs processes.
What Is Split Coupling on commercial trailers?
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.
How tall are double deck trailers?
Understand double deck trailer height limits – from UK builds up to 4.95m to low-height 4.0m designs with reduced decks for forklift side loading.
What Is An Expected Commercial Trailer Lifespan?
Trailers have 3 cycles: 10-12 years primary life, maintenance costs rise post that. Anticipated breakdown or repurposing after 20-22 years.
What is a tractor 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.
What is an HGV trailer ECU?
Trailer ECU (Electronic Control Unit) powers via ISO 7638 from the tractor unit, managing braking and suspension.
What sort of HGV trailer 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.
Q: What is the load restraint standard EN 12195 (Part 1/2)?
EN 12195: European standard for commercial vehicle load restraint | Calculate strap strength and set testing standards for secure loads.
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?
Landing leg foot types: Wheeled, Flat, and Compensating Rocker. Explore options for stable and adaptable support.
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 an ISO 7638 (ABS/EBS) HGV Trailer Suzie Coupling?
ISO 7638: Vital 7-pin electrical trailer coupling powering ECU, enabling fast braking, load sensing, and roll stability. Legally required since May 2002.
FAQ: 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.
What is the difference between HGV trailer 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.
What is the load restraint standard EN 12640?
BS EN 12640 sets standards for commercial vehicle lashing points. Ensure compliance with design, construction, and positioning criteria for secure goods transport.
Do you have an out-of-hours number for breakdowns?
Don-Bur has a 24hr support line number: +44 (0)845 305 5428
Q: 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.
Do you manufacture and sell PVC curtains?
The Sapphire Curtains & Load Restraint division manufactures (and installs) PVC curtains for application onto curtainsided trailers and rigid bodywork.
Can you design and produce livery and graphics?
Sapphire Graphics specializes in designing and producing diverse livery and decal solutions, from small stickers to full-colour PVC curtain prints.
Where can I find wiring instructions / 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?
Please contact Ken Ford or Andy Podmore at out Boothen Road Site on +44(0)1782 749 111
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.
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.
FAQ: 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?
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.
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.
Understanding EN 12642-XL:2016 | Load Containment Standard
BS EN 12642:2016 (L & XL) is a certified European load containment standard confirming compliance of complete body structures of 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?
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.
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.
What level of wear/damage is OK for 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.
Q: Do you make or sell EN 12642-XL Curtains for HGV trailers?
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.
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.
Accessing Don-Bur User Manuals & Instructions
Some generic manuals can be found in the related content section below. Other manuals may be available from us directly.
Where can I find your insurance cover documents/certificate?
Discover the insurance coverage at Don-Bur (Holdings) Ltd, including Employers' and Public Liability, ensuring safety for employees and clients.
What is the correct action for an HGV red/amber cab warning lamp?
The ABS/EBS warning lamp (Malfunction Indicator Light 'MIL') can show either an yellow or red state.
What are the maximum Trailer 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.
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.
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.
