Head to head
Bateson 12LT vs Ifor Williams HB403
The Bateson 12LT is 417kg lighter empty and carries 117kg more. The Ifor Williams HB403 is 1.28m (4ft) longer inside and is rated 300kg heavier gross.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Unladen weight: the Ifor Williams HB403 weighs 417kg more empty.
- Internal length: the Ifor Williams HB403 is 1.28m (4ft) longer inside.
- Gross weight: the Ifor Williams HB403 is rated 300kg heavier gross.
- Payload: the Bateson 12LT carries 117kg more.
- Internal width: the Ifor Williams HB403 is 10cm wider inside.
Specifications side by side
| Bateson 12LT | Ifor Williams HB403 | |
|---|---|---|
| Internal length | 1800mm / 5'11" | 3.08m |
| Internal width | 1200mm / 3'11" | 1.30m |
| Gross weight | 1300kg | 1600kg |
| Unladen weight | 350kg | 767kg |
| Payload | 950kg | 833kg |
| Internal height | 1200mm / 3'11" | - |
Sources: Bateson 12LT, Ifor Williams HB403. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 12LT if...
- you want one that is 417kg lighter empty
- you want one that carries 117kg more
The 12LT is Bateson's entry-level livestock trailer, the only single-axle model in its livestock range, aimed at smallholders and farmers moving calves, sheep or pigs in smaller numbers than a full cattle trailer would carry. Its low GVW keeps it towable by smaller 4x4s and pickups.
Listed by
- Liverseed Trailers - Preston, Lostock Hall, Penwortham
Buy or hire the HB403 if...
- you want one that is 1.28m (4ft) longer inside
- you want one that is rated 300kg heavier gross
- you want one that is 10cm wider inside
The smallest trailer in the HB horsebox range, bought by owners of a single horse or a couple of ponies who want the lightest legal option that can still be towed by a mid-size car.
Listed by
- Horse Trailer Sales - Robertsbridge, Staplecross
- Barnwell Trailers Ltd - Peterborough, Oundle, Barnwell
Common questions
What is the difference between the Bateson 12LT and the Ifor Williams HB403?
The Bateson 12LT is 417kg lighter empty and carries 117kg more. The Ifor Williams HB403 is 1.28m (4ft) longer inside and is rated 300kg heavier gross. The Bateson 12LT is a the smallest trailer in Bateson's livestock range, a single-axle trailer for calves, sheep and pigs.; the Ifor Williams HB403 is a a compact single-horse or two-pony horsebox trailer.
Which is lighter, the Bateson 12LT or the Ifor Williams HB403?
The Bateson 12LT. It is 417kg lighter empty than the Ifor Williams HB403.
Which carries more, the Bateson 12LT or the Ifor Williams HB403?
The Bateson 12LT, by 117kg.
Can I tow the Bateson 12LT or the Ifor Williams HB403 on a car licence?
Yes, as far as the licence goes. Both are rated at or under 3,500kg gross, and a car (B) licence has covered towing up to 3,500kg since 16 December 2021. Your car still has to be rated to tow the loaded weight - check the handbook or the VIN plate.
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