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.
EN 12642-XL Guide
Don-Bur has published a guide which provides a summary of the BS EN 12642-XL standard.
EN 12642-XL GuideFurther 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.
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Tags: enxl, en-xl, en12642, en 12642-xl, xl rated
