Understanding EN 12642-XL:2016 | Load Containment Standard

What is EN 12642-XL:2016?

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

The standard applies to body structures on commercial vehicles and trailers with a maximum total weight of more than 3 500 kg and sets out basic minimum requirements for standard vehicle bodies (side walls, front and rear wall) and for reinforced vehicle bodies and specifies appropriate tests.

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Building To EN 12642-XL

Don-Bur offers trailers and rigid bodywork compliant with EN 12642-XL, including curtainsiders, double decks and rigid bodywork.

'Deemed To Comply'

Under advice issued by the DVSA, vehicles built with the European standard EN 12642-XL are now 'deemed to comply' with the DfT Code of Practice, 'Safety of Loads on Vehicles', provided that the goods are loaded with positive fit.

What Is Positive Fit?

Any gap between the load and the side curtains must not exceed 80mm.
The load must be positioned up to the front bulkhead.
Gaps behind the load should not exceed 300mm. If it does, as in the case of diminishing loads, the rear of the load must be restrained with a net or other means to prevent rearward shift when there is space remaining at the rear of the body.

Load Restraint Positive Fit — Load Restraint Positive fit

EN 12642-XL Label — EN 12642-XL:2016 label

EN 12642-XL Guide

Don-Bur has published a guide which provides a summary of the BS EN 12642-XL standard.

EN 12642-XL Guide

Further information about load restraint and EN 12642-XL can be found in the related links section below.

Dynamic Testing

Dynamic testing for EN 12642-XL ensures that a vehicle's bodywork can withstand forces from sudden movements like braking or swerving. It simulates real-world conditions to verify load stability, ensuring goods remain secure without the need for extra restraints.