New Light Trailer Compliance Requirements

As you might be aware, the light trailer industry (4.5t Aggregate Trailer Mass [ATM] or less) is set to change from July 1st, 2022 when the Motor Vehicle Standards Act of 1989 is succeeded by the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (RVSA) . The changes are set to put the responsibility on the light trailer manufacturer/importer to ensure their products are compliant to the RVSA. This could seem a bit daunting of a process, but not everything has changed. If you are a light trailer manufacturer here are a couple of key points to consider as you prepare to make the switch:

-          The current versions of the ADRs (As summarised in VSB1) still apply as before. This means that if you are compliant with the requirements of the ADRs, you should expect minimal changes to how you build your trailers

-          Your suppliers should be able to provide you with CTA (Component Type Approval) approved parts or ECE certificates. Parts having a CTA or ECE approval means that you will be assured of ADR compliance for a myriad of components, including, but not limited to, couplings, tyres, safety chains, lighting & marking.

With the above in mind, there are some things you can do to be ready for the transition

-          A Quality Management System (QMS) must be put in place, covering how you procure, design, manufacture and service your products. This might appear complicated however in a number of cases it is as simple as just documenting what you already do as a business

-          Contact your parts suppliers for CTA details. If they are not willing to assist you, now would be a good time to look for another supplier.

-          Ensure your own work is ADR compliant. One of the main ADR critical items from a manufacturing perspective is ensuring that your drawbars meet ADR62/02 requirements

-          Create your account in the ROVER portal, allowing you to manage and create new approvals

BTT Engineering has been assisting a number of our clients in the light trailer industry with setting up their QMS, completing ADR assessments and offering general consultation regarding the new RVSA requirements. We are still taking on new clients prior to the transition date, but time is running out, so don’t delay for too long.

If you find yourself running close to the deadline without having systems in place, BTT Engineering has a QMS template which can be purchased and applied to your business instantly. We are also in the process of completing a drawbar strength design guide, complete with a compliance report and drawings, which can also be purchased and immediately applied to your manufacturing process. If you have any questions regarding these items or anything else relating to your RVSA transition, please contact us today