{"id":577232,"date":"2026-06-01T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-06-01T06:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vdhurk.nl\/?p=577232"},"modified":"2026-04-14T13:50:18","modified_gmt":"2026-04-14T11:50:18","slug":"you-can-buy-a-small-van-with-a-towbar","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vdhurk.nl\/en\/kun-je-een-kleine-bestelwagen-kopen-met-trekhaak\/","title":{"rendered":"Can you buy a small van with a towbar?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Buying a small van with a towbar is a smart choice for entrepreneurs who need flexibility. Whether you want to carry a trailer for tools, a small caravan or extra materials, a towbar on your van significantly increases your options. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about small vans with towbar, from technical towing weights to driving licence rules.<\/p>\n

From choosing the right vehicle to understanding the legal rules, we list everything so you can make a well-prepared decision.<\/p>\n

Can a small van be fitted with a tow bar as standard?<\/h2>\n

Yes, some small vans come with a towbar as standard, but this is the exception rather than the rule. Most manufacturers offer a towbar as optional factory equipment, or you can have it retrofitted by an approved company. Whether a specific model has a towbar as standard depends on the make, trim and option packages you choose.<\/p>\n

In popular models such as the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit Connect or Renault Kangoo, you can include a towbar as a factory option when ordering. This has the advantage that the towbar is fully integrated into the vehicle's software, including the stability control and braking system. A factory-fitted towbar is also immediately visible in the vehicle registration register, which is handy for on-the-road checks.<\/p>\n

Fixed or detachable towbar?<\/h3>\n

Besides choosing between standard or retrofitted, you can also choose between a fixed and a detachable towbar. A fixed towbar is always present and is usually cheaper. A detachable towbar can be removed when you don't need it, which is handy if you want to make full use of the cargo space or if you don't want to damage the rear bumper when loading and unloading at a loading bay.<\/p>\n

For many sole traders and small businesses, a detachable towbar is the practical choice: you have it when you need it, and otherwise it is not in the way. When buying, always ask what type of towbar suits your use and what options the manufacturer offers for that model.<\/p>\n

How much is a small van allowed to tow with a tow bar?<\/h2>\n

The maximum towing weights of small vans are usually between 500 and 2,000 kilograms, depending on the model and engine version. The exact towing weight is listed in the vehicle's registration certificate, under the technical specifications. This figure is binding and you should not exceed it.<\/p>\n

There are two types of towing weights you need to know: the braked towing weight and the unbraked towing weight. The unbraked towing weight applies to trailers without their own braking system and is usually around 750 kilograms for small vans. The braked towing weight is higher and applies to trailers with their own brakes.<\/p>\n

What does the maximum load on the tow bar mean?<\/h3>\n

Besides the total towing weight of the trailer, there is also the so-called drawbar load or support load. This is the weight pressing vertically on the tow ball. For most small vans, the maximum support load is 50 to 100 kilograms. If you load a trailer unevenly, the support load can become too high, which negatively affects handling and can be dangerous.<\/p>\n

Always make sure you load the trailer properly, with the centre of gravity slightly in front of the axle. This keeps the support load within the permissible values and keeps your driving stable. If in doubt, always consult your vehicle's manual or seek advice from a specialist.<\/p>\n

Which small vans are suitable for a towbar?<\/h2>\n

Most small vans in the L1 segment are suitable for a towbar, provided the manufacturer allows it and the vehicle has sufficient engine power. Popular models that combine well with a towbar include the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit Connect, Vauxhall Combo, Renault Kangoo, Peugeot Partner and Citro\u00ebn Berlingo.<\/p>\n

These models are available with diesel or petrol engines that provide enough towing power to drive with a loaded trailer. When choosing, pay attention to the specified towing weight for each engine variant, as not every engine version has the same maximum towing weight. A more powerful engine usually gives a higher permissible towing weight.<\/p>\n

Are electric small vans also suitable?<\/h3>\n

More and more entrepreneurs are choosing to lease or buy a electric company car<\/a>, which begs the question of whether electric vans can also have a tow bar. The answer is yes, but with limitations. Electric models like the Volkswagen Caddy Electric or Renault Kangoo E-Tech have a lower specified towing weight than their fuel variant, and towing a trailer has a noticeable impact on the driving range.<\/p>\n

For short journeys or local deployment, an electric van with a towbar can work fine. For longer journeys with a heavy trailer, a diesel variant is still the most practical choice in practice. If you want to know more about the possibilities of electric commercial vehicles, it would be wise to discuss your specific usage situation with a specialist.<\/p>\n

What if you are looking for a double cab van?<\/h3>\n

A double-cab van<\/a> also combines well with a towbar. Models like the Ford Transit Custom Double Cab or the Volkswagen Transporter Double Cab offer more seating space and are often available with a towbar as standard or as an option. Due to the higher overall weight of these vehicles, the permitted towing weight is also often higher than for a compact van.<\/p>\n

For companies that combine both passenger transport and towing trailers, a double cab with towbar is a versatile solution. Think construction companies, landscapers or technical service providers who want to transport employees and equipment at the same time.<\/p>\n

What does it cost to have a towbar fitted to a van?<\/h2>\n

The cost of fitting a towbar to a small van is on average between \u20ac300 and \u20ac700, including installation. The price depends on the type of tow bar, the make and model of the van, and whether an additional electrical connection is needed for trailer lighting.<\/p>\n

A simple fixed towbar is usually cheaper than a detachable variant with an electrically operated ball head. You should also consider the cost of the electrical connection, also called the 7-pin or 13-pin plug. This is mandatory for connecting the trailer's lights and costs extra labour hours.<\/p>\n

Will you have the tow bar fitted by an approved company?<\/h3>\n

It is highly recommended to have a towbar fitted by an authorised mechanic or dealer. They will ensure that the towbar is correctly attached to the vehicle's supporting structure and that the electrical connection works properly. An improperly fitted towbar can be dangerous and can also affect your vehicle's warranty.<\/p>\n

After mounting, in some cases the tow bar must also be reported to the RDW, so that the tow weight is correctly registered in the vehicle register. Always ask your mechanic about this, so you don't encounter any problems in the event of an inspection.<\/p>\n

Can you drive a small van with trailer with a B driving licence?<\/h2>\n

A B driving licence allows you to drive a small van with a trailer, as long as the combination of vehicle and trailer does not exceed a maximum authorised mass of 3,500 kilograms. In addition, the trailer may not exceed the driveable mass of the towing vehicle. If you meet both conditions, you do not need an additional driving licence.<\/p>\n

In practice, this means that a small van weighing, say, 1,800 kilograms on the road may allow you to tow a trailer of up to 1,800 kilograms, as long as the total combination stays under 3,500 kilograms. Small vans typically weigh between 1,400 and 2,000 kilograms on the road, depending on the model and equipment.<\/p>\n

When do you need driving licence BE?<\/h3>\n

Driving licence BE is mandatory if the trailer is heavier than 750 kilograms and the total combination exceeds 3,500 kilograms. For most users of small vans, driving licence B is sufficient, but if you regularly tow heavy trailers, it is wise to check whether you stay within the limits.<\/p>\n

If you drive with a combination heavier than permitted with driving licence B, you risk a fine and can lose your driving licence. So always check the driveable weight of your van and the total weight of the loaded trailer before you hit the road. You can find the technical data in the vehicle's registration certificate.<\/p>\n

Do speed limits apply to vans with trailers?<\/h3>\n

Yes, when driving with a trailer, lower speed limits apply in the Netherlands. On the motorway, a maximum of 90 kilometres per hour applies to a combination of passenger car or van and trailer. On motorways, 80 kilometres per hour applies. Outside built-up areas, you drive a maximum of 80 kilometres per hour, and within built-up areas the normal limits apply.<\/p>\n

These rules apply regardless of whether you have a B or BE driving licence. Keep this in mind when planning your driving hours, especially if you regularly travel longer distances with a loaded trailer behind your van.<\/p>\n

How we help you find the right van with towbar<\/h2>\n

With us, you will find a wide range of small vans suitable for use with a towbar. Whether you are looking to buy a small van with a towbar, a commercial van with double cabin or lease an electric commercial vehicle, we will be happy to help. Our Van den Hurk offer<\/a> is diverse and our advisers know the technical details of each vehicle on file.<\/p>\n

Here's what we can do for you:<\/p>\n