Type Base Top Ext
Plate Length (m) 2.9
Plate height (m) 2.0 1.0
Internal Width (mm) 0.3 0 - 1.83
Panel Width (m) 63
Plan Clearance Between Struts (m) 2.65
Clearance below rear strut (m) 1.5 N/A
Panel Weight (kg) 450 175
Assembled weight (kg) 980 387

FAQs

What is a Backhoe Drag Box?

The Backhoe Drag Box is designed for use with small capacity backhoe machines and excavators.


Which applications most suit a Backhoe Drag Box?

The Backhoe Drag Box is ideal for continuous pipe laying operations.


Is the Backhoe Drag Box a lightweight product?

Yes, this lightweight box weighs less than one tonne, making it easy to manoeuvre.


What size of excavation suit Backhoe Drag Boxes?

They are suitable for use in trenches from 0.43 to 1.96m wide x 2m deep in self-supporting ground.


Are top extensions available for the Backhoe Drag Box?

No, top boxes are no longer permitted to be used with Backhoe Drag Boxes.


What type of struts are used in a Backhoe Drag Box?

Simple pinned fixed length struts are used for Backhoe Drag Boxes.


Do Groundforce offer training courses?

Groundforce Training Services offer Industry leading accredited safety training primarily for those working in utilities, construction and civil engineering. From short duration health and safety awareness to more complex or specialist safety consultancy solutions.


Related Files

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Backhoe Manhole and Trench Boxes User Guide
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Backhoe Drag Box

Drag Box: Typical Installation Methodology

Groundforce Drag Box is lightweight and designed for use with small capacity machines and excavators. This box is ideal for continuous pipe laying operations in self–supporting ground up to 4m in depth.

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Our Backhoe Drag Box Sizes

 

Groundforce’s Backhoe Drag Box is a lightweight excavation support system designed for small capacity machines and backhoe excavators. Weighing less than one tonne, it is easy to handle and manoeuvre on site, making it the ideal choice for projects where access and lifting capacity are restricted.

Purpose-built for continuous pipe laying operations, the Backhoe Drag Box is designed for use in self-supporting ground to depths of up to 2.0 metres. 


The Backhoe Drag Box can be pulled along the trench as excavation progresses, reducing handling time and improving efficiency for continuous operations.

Explore Our Other Box Systems

Alongside our Backhoe Drag Boxes, Groundforce also supplies:

Backhoe Drag Box Applications

 

The Backhoe Drag Box is specifically designed for continuous pipeline and utility installation where a lightweight, easily moved trench shield is required. It is ideally suited to smaller plant and self-supporting ground conditions, making it a versatile choice for utility and infrastructure works.

Typical applications include:

  • Water, gas, and drainage pipeline installation in stable ground.

  • Continuous trench shielding for cable or pipe laying projects.

  • Utility works in restricted access sites where heavier boxes are impractical.

  • Short-run excavations requiring quick repositioning as works progress.

Its lightweight build and simple strut arrangement make it easy to reposition along the trench, helping to speed up installation and maintain productivity.

Backhoe Drag Box Safety & Compliance

All Groundforce Backhoe Drag Boxes are designed and maintained to meet rigorous safety and quality standards, ensuring reliability on site.

Key safety and compliance features:

  • Manufactured and maintained under ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001 quality frameworks.

  • Lightweight design minimises lifting risk and enables use with smaller plant.

  • Can be installed and repositioned without entering unsupported ground.

  • Supplied with technical user guides, loading data, and installation instructions.

  • Optional EdgeSafe and LadderSafe systems available for safer site access and protection.

Why Hire From Groundforce?

With over 40 years’ experience in excavation support, Groundforce provides reliable, safe, and cost-effective shoring solutions to suit projects of all sizes. Our Backhoe Drag Boxes are available for hire nationwide, backed by expert advice and quick delivery from our network of depots.

Benefits of hiring from Groundforce:

  • Over 40 Years in Construction: proven track record in trench support, delivering safe, compliant, and efficient solutions.

  • All-in-One Supplier: six specialist divisions covering training courses, shoring, piling, temporary bridges, pipe stoppers, cropping, and more.

  • Nationwide Coverage: 18 depots and a FORS Silver-accredited fleet for fast delivery and collection anywhere in the UK.

  • Expert Technical Support: in-house chartered engineers providing tailored designs with rapid turnaround.

  • Flexible Hire & Stock Availability: large nationwide stockholding with adaptable hire terms to suit changing project needs.

Backhoe Drag Box Delivery & Collection Information

 

Groundforce manages every delivery and collection in-house, ensuring your Backhoe Drag Box arrives safely and on time.

  • Trusted transport credentials: our fleet has held FORS Silver accreditation since 2016, ensuring compliance with CLOCS and Transport for London Work-Related Road Risk standards.

  • Skilled drivers: HGV Class 1 licensed, ALLMI-certified, and health & safety trained.

  • Nationwide coverage: with 18 depots across the UK, we provide quick delivery and collection wherever your project is located.

At the end of hire, our team will arrange safe, efficient collection to minimise disruption and keep your project moving.