If you own or operate an Ifor Williams trailer, chances are you’ve seen a small metal plate attached to the drawbar. While easy to overlook, this VIN or data plate plays a key role in ensuring your trailer is legal, traceable, and serviced correctly.
In this article, we’ll break down the three types of trailer plates, explain what each one means, and why they matter for compliance, safety, and ordering parts.
What Is a Trailer Data Plate?
All Ifor Williams trailers come fitted with a VIN plate (Vehicle Identification Number), which includes critical information about your trailer’s identity and capabilities. Depending on the model and year, you may also see a drawbar approval plate and downrating plate.
Location: Most plates can be found on the right-hand side of the drawbar, though this varies by trailer type.
The 3 Types of Ifor Williams Trailer Plates
1. Standard VIN Plate (EC Type Approval)
This is fitted to every trailer and includes:
VIN number (starting with SCK...)
Gross trailer weight
Axle weights
EC approval number
2. Drawbar Approval Plate
Found on trailers with EC-type approved drawbars:
Shows drawbar model, variant and gross trailer weight
Static vertical load limit (nose weight)
EC approval number
3. Downrated Weight Plate (If applicable)
This is fitted when a trailer has been officially downrated, for example to remain within towing licence limits.
It displays reduced weight limits and may override figures on the standard VIN plate.
Why Is the VIN Plate Important?
Ordering the Right Parts
We use the VIN and serial number to match the correct spares to your trailer model — helping you avoid costly mistakes.
Legal Compliance
Plates show that your trailer has been EC approved and is legally compliant with UK and EU towing regulations.
Servicing & Resale
Accurate identification speeds up servicing and can help protect resale value.
Where to Find Your Plate
| Trailer Type | Plate Location |
|---|---|
| General braked trailers | Right-hand side of the drawbar (outside face) |
| Unbraked trailers | Often on front panel or mounting bracket |
| BV64e Box Vans | Rear cross member, right-hand side |
| HB403 Horseboxes | Outer face of body, below front ramp (RHS) |
What Your VIN Number Tells Us
All Ifor Williams VINs start with SCK and are followed by a unique 6–7 digit serial number. This tells us:
The trailer’s exact specification
Its age and production batch
The components originally fitted
Tip: Take a clear photo of your VIN plate and keep it on your phone. It’ll speed things up when booking a service or ordering parts.
Download the Full VIN Plate Guide (PDF)
Need Support or a Spare Part?
GT Towing is an official Ifor Williams dealer and parts stockist. We can help with:
Trailer servicing and inspections
Ordering genuine IWT parts
Downrating information
General towing and trailer advice