The DVSA has confirmed that most goods vehicles and trailers in the UK will have to be appropriately laden for their annual test from 1 January, 2023 onwards.

Any goods vehicles and trailers which are not laden (unless exempt, such as tri-axle semi-trailers or refuse collection vehicles) will be refused a test by Vehicle Standards Assessors (VSAs). This will mean the loss of the test booking and fee and another booking will have to be made and paid for.

Authorised Test Facilities (ATFs) are responsible for making sure that vehicles are properly loaded before the MOT starts. This normally means at least 65% of the vehicle design axle weight (DAW).

Details of how to prepare your vehicle for the laden brake test are available here.