PBS Combination Trailers

PBS combination trailers are specialised trailers designed under the Performance-Based Standards scheme, which allows for higher productivity and safety through innovative vehicle design and engineering. These trailers exceed standard dimensions or weights, optimising capacity and efficiency under controlled conditions.

Industries that handle bulk goods or require heavy haulage stand to benefit greatly. These include mining, construction, agriculture and logistics. PBS trailers are particularly advantageous in these sectors due to their increased capacity and ability to navigate various terrains while adhering to safety regulations.

Midland offers extensive customisation for PBS trailers, including variable chassis configurations, axle groupings, and suspension types to suit different load and road conditions. Additional custom features can include specific tire sizes, tailored braking systems and advanced coupling systems.

Safety is a priority in the design of our PBS trailers, which include features like advanced braking systems, electronic stability control, and high-visibility lighting. Each trailer also undergoes stringent testing to ensure it meets all safety standards before it hits the road.

Maintenance for PBS trailers involves regular inspections and servicing to ensure all components, such as brakes and suspension systems, function optimally. Due to their specialised nature, following a tailored maintenance schedule based on the specific components and usage patterns of the trailer is crucial.

PBS trailers contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the number of trips required to transport goods, thanks to their higher capacity. This reduction in road usage decreases fuel consumption, emissions, and road wear, contributing positively to environmental goals.

Unlike standard trailers, PBS trailers are subject to a rigorous assessment process that ensures they meet higher safety and performance standards. They often allow for greater payload due to their innovative designs, which can include longer lengths, higher masses, and more axles. This results in improved transport efficiency and reduced operating costs.

No, PBS trailers are authorised to operate only on approved networks specified by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR). Each trailer is assessed for its suitability on certain road networks based on its design and the machinery that it is intended to carry.

Our trailers are constructed using high-quality Australian steel, which is known for its durability and strength. This not only supports local industry but also ensures that our trailers can withstand all Australian weather conditions.

The approval process involves several stages, including design, simulation and physical testing. The proposed trailer design is assessed against 16 stringent safety standards and four infrastructure standards to ensure it poses no greater risk than conventional vehicles. Approval is granted when a trailer meets all regulatory requirements.

To get a PBS trailer approved, we must submit a design proposal to the NHVR, detailing the trailer’s specifications and intended use. The design will then be assessed for safety and performance compliance. If approved, a Vehicle Approval Number is issued and the trailer can be registered for use on approved road networks.

Our expert team at Midland is available to provide detailed information and assist with your specific requirements. You can contact us via our website to get more information or to start the discussion around the requirements and design process for your PBS trailer.

PBS Level 2 is a network-specific access level under the Performance Based Standards scheme. A Level 2 PBS vehicle has been assessed and approved to operate on roads designated as Level 2 under the NHVR network classification — typically state highways and arterial routes. Level 2 approval unlocks higher mass limits and longer combinations than standard vehicles are permitted.

PBS approval timeframes vary depending on the complexity of the design and the NHVR's workload. A straightforward PBS application typically takes 8–16 weeks from lodgement to approval. Complex or novel designs requiring additional modelling or specialist review can take longer. Midland guides customers through the full six-step PBS approval process — contact us to discuss your project timeline.

PBS trailers typically cost more than standard trailers due to engineering certification fees, PBS assessment costs, and the custom nature of each build. However, the investment pays off through higher payload capacity and improved productivity. The exact cost difference varies depending on configuration and payload requirements — contact us for a quote tailored to your operation.