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Anon
By AA | Moderator | 844 Posts | 25 January 2011 at 12:10pm

With regards to Road User Charges (RUC) for a 100 series Land Cruiser to tow a 3 tonne boat with a braked trailer;

I have cab operated brakes for the trailer, 3500kg tow bar and the 100 series Cruiser is rated for 3500 kg towing.

What RUC charges do I need to pay as at present I have a 3 tonne sticker, but have been told that I require a 6 tonne sticker when towing the boat? I have read a number of forums on this subject and believe a light rigid trailer (under 3500kg) is not subject to road user charges. It is only the load carried on the draw bar that will affect the weight of the tow vehicle, in theory 10% of the towed load.

Do I have to pay RUC for the towed load or only the load carried by the tow vehicle?

Paul

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 1 September 2009

jbiddle
By jbiddle | Community Member | 1657 Posts | 25 January 2011 at 12:23pm

The information you have been given is not correct. When a vehicle requiring RUC is towing a vehicle not requiring RUC, (ie; trailer, boat, horse float etc under 3500kg) then the only concern is how much down force is on the tow bar, thereby transferring weight onto the towing vehicle. In most instances this will be minimal.

The actual weight of the trailer itself is not a consideration for RUC providing it does not exceed 3500kg. Therefore, your interpretation is correct.

However, not wanting to throw a spanner in the works for you, technically if you are driving a vehicle with a gross combined weight exceeding 4500kg, you are required to have a Class 2 (heavy transport) licence