New UK trailers are supplied with specific regulatory documents to confirm compliance with road-use legislation and type-approval requirements. These documents originate from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), the manufacturer and type-approval authorities. Don-Bur can also supply supporting documentation on request.
DVSA-issued documentation
The DVSA issues statutory documents for large goods trailers. These verify the trailer's permitted weight limits and authorise it for supply and first use on public roads. The main documents are:
- Plating certificate and plate (VTG): Required for large goods trailers before first use. The plate and certificate confirm maximum permitted gross, train and axle weights. Guidance: HGV and Trailer Ministry Plates.
- Consent to Supply (CTS) / Entry into Service Consent: Required for trailers over 1,020 kg unladen or semitrailers. It authorises the trailer to be supplied for road use. Further detail: Permission to Supply a Large Goods Trailer.
Difference between VTG6 and VTG7
VTG6 (Plating Certificate): The VTG6 is the primary DVSA plating certificate and forms the basis of the physical ministry plate fixed to the trailer. It states the trailer's statutory weight limits and must remain with the trailer for its operational life.
VTG7 (Operator Copy / Supplementary Certificate): The VTG7 contains the same weight data as the VTG6 but is issued as an operator-held copy. It supports record-keeping or in-cab reference and does not replace the requirement for the VTG6 to be affixed to the trailer.
Type Approval documentation
Trailers supplied under Great Britain Type Approval require documentation issued by the manufacturer under the oversight of the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA). Type approval confirms that the trailer meets defined technical and safety standards.
- Certificate of Conformity (CoC): Issued electronically by the manufacturer for trailers falling under GB Type Approval. The CoC certifies that the trailer conforms to an approved type. More information: VCA: What is Vehicle Type Approval?.
Don-Bur can also supply Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) sheets on request to assist with operational documentation and maintenance records.
FAQs
When does a trailer need a plate, plating certificate or Consent to Supply?
Large goods trailers (unladen weight over 1,020 kg or semitrailers) must have a DVSA plating certificate, ministry plate and entry into service consent before being used on UK roads.
What is the difference between VTG6 and VTG7?
The VTG6 is the official DVSA plating certificate used to create the ministry plate fixed to the trailer. The VTG7 contains the same information but is issued as an operator-held copy for reference.
What is a Certificate of Conformity and when is it required?
The Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is issued under GB Type Approval and certifies that a trailer conforms to an approved type. It is mandatory for trailers supplied under type-approval legislation.
Does Don-Bur provide PDI sheets?
Yes. Don-Bur can provide PDI sheets on request to support documentation management and service records.
