Navigating the New Towing Regulations: A Guide for JCB Machine Users

Towing is a crucial aspect for construction workers, providing the ability to move items on-site or transport different attachments or equipment like generators. However, up until now, it has been illegal for plant machinery operators to tow on UK roads. As of July 2024, new regulations allow for deviations in towing trailers with engineering plant machinery. This guide explains how you can legally and safely tow with your JCB machine under the new laws.

How is the Law Changing for Towing a Trailer?

In 2017, the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) prohibited the use of earthmoving equipment for towing trailers on UK highways. This restriction was particularly challenging for those operating engineering plant machinery, as it prevented the movement of additional equipment between sites.

Thanks to significant advancements in towing safety and technology, and continuous advocacy for the benefits of reduced carbon emissions and increased efficiency, a ministerial decision by the Department for Transport (DfT) has permitted towing for specific activities.

From July 2024, users who obtain a Vehicle Special Order (VSO) can use wheeled earthmoving machinery (Engineering Plant) to tow trailers for road construction, maintenance, and repair. This change allows JCB customers to carry certain attachments and materials with their machines, making urban working more convenient and efficient.

How to Tow Safely Under the New Legislation

To tow legally under the new regulations, operators must apply for a VSO and ensure their vehicle meets specific criteria:

Vehicle Requirements:

• Must be a wheeled engineering plant involved in public road construction, maintenance, or repair.
• Must measure less than 8 meters in overall length.
• The wheeled trailer must comply with the 1986 Regulations.

Operational Conditions:

• Must be unladen, carrying excavated materials from completed road work, or returning to collect more material.
• Must be used solely for carrying materials and tools required for public road construction, maintenance, and repair.
• VSO limits speed to 20mph and prohibits use on motorways.

How to Obtain a VSO

To start the process, ensure your engineering plant vehicle is road registered, taxed, and insured. Then, send the following details to vso@vca.gov.uk:

• Name and address of the applicant (indicate if registered vehicles are available for hire).
• Machine details including make, model, registration number, VIN, and axles.
• Operators cannot tow until the VSO is granted. Even with a VSO, there are restrictions and responsibilities:
• Ensure the vehicle and trailer combination has proper insurance.
• Confirm the engineering plant tow hitch and trailer compatibility.
• Drivers must have a full UK driving license, be trained to tow using engineering plant, and be permitted to tow the trailer's laden mass.

Suitable JCB Machines for Towing

JCB machines are engineered for towing, ensuring safety and efficiency. Here are two models ideal for towing under the new regulations:

JCB Hydradig 110W

• Designed for towing an inertia-braked trailer up to 3500 kg.
• Options for two hitch types: Rockinger and Clevis.
• 7-pin trailer electrics can be specified to this machine to make sure the indicator, fog, tail and brake lights can be operated as expected.
• A single-acting auxiliary or both a single and double acting auxiliary function is available in the lower chassis at the rear of the machine to allow for trailer tipping and other auxiliary services.

JCB Backhoe Loaders

• Agile and manoeuvrable, capable of towing up to 3500 kg.
• Adjustable height.
• 250kg nose load.
• 7-pin electrics.
• Discreet stowing
• 50mm ball and clevis hitch.

By understanding and complying with the new towing regulations, you can enhance the versatility and productivity of your JCB machines, ensuring safe and legal operations on UK roads.

If you have any questions regarding the new legislation please contact your local depot and one of our team will be happy to help.