B-Double Towing and Transport: What Brisbane Operators Need to Know

B-Double Towing and Transport in Brisbane

B-doubles are the workhorse of Australian freight transport. Two trailers behind one prime mover, typically 25-26 metres long and up to 68.5 tonnes gross combination mass. They run between depots, distribution centres, ports, and retail locations across Brisbane every day. When they break down, the size and weight of the combination creates specific towing challenges.

Towing the Prime Mover

If the prime mover has failed but the trailers are fine, the most common approach is to tow the entire combination to the nearest safe location where the trailers can be decoupled and a replacement prime mover can collect them. For short distances, this is efficient.

For longer tows, decoupling on site and towing the prime mover separately may be more practical. The trailers remain secured at the breakdown location until a replacement prime mover arrives.

Towing with Both Trailers

Towing a full B-double combination requires a tow truck with enough capacity to manage the weight and length. The articulation between the two trailers adds complexity during turning movements. Our operators are experienced with B-double handling and know the turning space requirements at intersections along common towing routes.

Loaded vs Empty

A loaded B-double at 68.5 tonnes is a different proposition from an empty one at around 20 tonnes. The loaded combination requires a tow truck with corresponding capacity, and the braking demands during towing are significantly higher. If the casualty vehicle's brakes are not functioning, the tow truck must provide all the stopping force for the combination.

Brisbane B-Double Routes

B-doubles operate on approved routes in Brisbane. The road network has specific B-double approved routes that accommodate the combination length and weight. When towing a B-double, we use these approved routes wherever possible. If the tow route needs to deviate from approved B-double roads, we plan the alternative route considering bridge weight limits and turning space.

The Key Decision

The key decision in any B-double breakdown is whether to tow the combination together or decouple and handle the components separately. We make this call based on the distance to the destination, the condition of the trailers, the availability of a replacement prime mover, and the road conditions along the tow route.

For B-double towing in Brisbane, call Delta Heavy Towing on +61 455 996 600.