Before a caravan can be taken on the road, it must first be registered in the state where it is located. You can travel through other states and you’ll be fine unless you move to another state. In that case, you’ll have to start the process all over again.
To ensure that you don’t buy a rebirthed caravan, you can use the Queensland Government Van Aware tool
Do I need a safety certificate for my caravan?
A safety/roadworthy certificate is required for caravans weighing between 750kg (ATM), and 3.5 tons (ATM). A safety certificate is not required for caravans weighing less than 750kg (ATM), however you must complete a Queensland Transport Self Assessment Form.
A safety certificate is required in the following situations:
- Purchase a caravan or trailer that has not been registered.
- Change your address or transfer your registration from another country.
- Your registration has been inactive for more than three months.
- You are looking to buy or sell a caravan or trailer.
What is the weight limit for an ATM?
Maximum weight allowed for caravans when loaded is the ATM weight. This must not exceed the chassis capacity. It is the sum of GTM and BM.
Do I need a Gas Compliance Certificate for my caravan?
If your caravan is equipped with a permanent gas supply, a gas certificate will be required. This could include a fridge, stovetop, or water heater.
Your caravan must have the following features to pass the gas safety inspection:
The Gas Bottle’s Fuel:
Make sure the appliance is in good working order and is ready for inspection. Verify that the gas tank is still full and not expired.
Two-stage Regulator with OverPressure Protection, (OPP).
A two-stage pressure regulator with over-pressure protection is the best way to reduce cylinder pressure to safe levels for operating equipment and appliances. Two-stage gas pressure regulators reduce the cylinder pressure in two phases while single-stage regulators lower the cylinder pressure one-step.
Test Point for Gas Pressure:
You must place a test point in your caravan. The regulator will have a test point underneath it. This allows the user to check that the regulator is operating at a lower pressure.
Gas compliance plate, or gas fitters plate
A licensed professional gas fitter must issue a gas permit paper or a compliance plate to the caravan. A gas system compliance plate will show the history of gas installation as well as who performed it. Click to learn more about compliance plates.
Appliances certified for Australian use
Gas appliances must be approved for safe use in Australia. If your appliances were purchased from another country, ensure they meet Australian certification requirements. To pass inspection, each appliance must meet Australian standards.
You can check for AGA and QGA accreditation badges, or QLD Gas Association certification documentation regarding gas equipment. They must comply with AS5601, an Australian standard.
Checklist for Safety in Caravans:
- Plate for identification compliance
- Tail, stop, and clearance lights
- Indicators and reflectors
- Below 1.3m number plate height
- Good condition spare tyre and rims
- Rims
- Floors
- Bearings and inner bearing sealings
- Get out of the system
- Brakes – Operation and adjustment
- Drums and discs
- Brake shoes and pads
- Handbrake
- Suspension
- Safety chains
- Shock absorbers
- Coupling
- Load rated D shackles
- A Frame, A Frame
- Coupling and hook
- Brake components in drum
- Jockey wheel
How long is a Safety or Gas Certificate valid?
Private sellers can get safety/roadworthy certificates for up to 2000 km or two months.
A gas compliance certificate has a validity period of three months.
Who is authorized to issue Safety/Roadworthy Certificates
Only Queensland Transport-approved examiners can issue safety/roadworthy certificates.
Book a safety certificate today to save time and money. Queensland Transport has approved Queensland Transport inspectors and properly insured our mechanics. We will provide you with an easy-to-understand and detailed report that is clear and without ambiguity.
To know more about roadworthy certificates you may visit Apache Caravan showroom, our friendly and reliable sales team is there to assist you any time.
