Longer Semi-Trailers (LSTs)
From 31st May 2023, Longer Semi Trailers (LSTs) can be operated without a trial VSO on UK roads.
Following more than a decade-long trial, a newly amended Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) (General) Order 2023 allows operators to run LSTs on pre-planned routes with some operational caveats.
Why Longer Semi-Trailers?
Longer Semi-Trailers (LST's) are up to 2.050m longer than a standard 13.6m trailer and can carry 15% greater capacity than their standard length counterparts.
Well suited to light and medium freight operators, the additional cube will reduce delivery frequency, cut down on fuel costs and lower CO2 emissions.
Quality Assurance
Quality
Guaranteed to provide peace of mind
Durability
Engineered to perform consistently in demanding environments
Customer Service
The highest standard of attention to ensure complete satisfaction
Backup
365/7/24 hr after sales service
Features
Don-Bur engineered their first 16m trailer in 1999 with an active rear steer system (SCM). Since the DfT announced the LST scheme in 2011 Don-Bur has manufactured numerous designs to suit requirements.
- Straight & Step-Frames
- Double Deck options
- Variable 13.7m to 15.650m lengths
- Self-tracking or positive steer rear axle
Up to 8 Additional UK Pallets (1200x1000mm) on Double Decks
Don-Bur's LST's can provide operators with an additional 4 UK pallet capacity on a 15.65m single deck and 8 UK pallet capacity on a 15.65m Double Deck.
This can potentially reduce your deliveries by up to 1 in every 6.5 trips.
Quick Guide To LST's
- Up to 2.05m longer.
- Tri-Axle
- Steer axle at rear
- Vehicles are still required to operate within the existing UK GVW of 44 tonnes.
Teardrop Bodywork
The patented aerodynamic Teardrop technology is a mature and well-tested method to save fuel.
Technical Drawing Examples
Key Dimensions
Between 13.6m and 15.65m long
Up to 4.95m high
2.55m wide (dry freight)
Total combination max length of 18.55m
Apertures
15.395m long (curtain sided)
15.495m long (box van)
Weights & Capacities
30 UK pallets (1200 x 1000mm) per deck
38 Euro Pallets (1200 x 800 mm) per deck
44T Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight (Vehicles with 6 axles)
Up to 60 UK pallets (76 Euro pallets) on double decks
Gallery
Options
What other features and options are there? Tell me more about load restraint What facilities are there for livery?
Documentation
| Date | Details | Link |
|---|---|---|
| 31 May 2023 | Legislation | The Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) (General) Order 2003 |
| 31 May 2023 | Don-Bur News | Longer Semi-Trailers (LSTs) Finally Roll Out |
| 30 May 2023 | DfT Guidance | Longer semi-trailers: Full implementation guide for operators |
| 10th May 2023 | Don-Bur News | LSTs (Longer Semi Trailers) Suggested to Become Legal from 31 May 2023 |
| 4 March 2021 | Don-Bur News | LST Trials to Continue Despite Recent Rumours |
| 23 Feb 2021 | Motor Transport News | Transport secretary Grant Shapps MP has given the go-ahead to the widespread use of longer semi-trailers (LSTs) on Britain’s roads. |
| January 2017 | DfT Guidance |  Trial of Longer Semi-trailers (LSTs): How to take part in the trial |
| 3 March 2017 | Don-Bur Update | DfT Release Application Details For Longer Semi Trailer Trial Extension |
| 11 May 2015 | The Longer Semi-Trailer Trial | GOV.UK - The Longer Semi-Trailer Trial |
| November 2014 | Don-Bur LST Brochure | Don-Bur Longer Semi Trailers Brochure |
| January 2012 | DfT LST trial starts |
