ECE-approved reflectors and retro-reflective markers for trailer, truck, caravan and tractor

Reflectors and retro-reflective markers for trailer, truck and caravan

At Magsan you will find the ECE-approved reflectors required to comply with signalling regulations for industrial, agricultural and recreational vehicles. Reflectors — also known as retro-reflective markers or reflex devices — are mandatory road safety components that reflect the headlights of approaching vehicles without requiring electrical power, ensuring visibility in night-time or low-light conditions.

Select the correct colour and position according to regulations:

• White reflector — front of the trailer or vehicle (forward reflection)
• Amber reflector — sides of trailer, semi-trailer or platform
• Red reflector — rear of any vehicle (trailer, caravan, truck)
• Reflective warning triangle — rear of light trailers, caravans and recreational vehicles

All our reflectors are ECE approved and suitable for passing periodic vehicle inspection.

Types of reflectors by vehicle and position

Trailer reflectors — side and rear

Trailer reflectors are the most commonly required. Regulations require red reflectors at the rear and amber reflectors on the sides of the trailer, installed between 250 mm and 900 mm above ground level. For trailers longer than 6 metres, side reflectors must be spaced every 3 metres. All models in our range comply with these requirements.

Agricultural trailer and tractor reflectors

Agricultural trailer reflectors follow the same regulations as road trailers: red at the rear and amber on the sides. As agricultural machinery often operates at night or on poorly lit roads, correct installation of approved reflectors is critical for road safety. A reflective warning triangle is mandatory on slow-moving vehicles used on public roads.

Caravan and motorhome reflectors

Caravans and motorhomes must be fitted with red rear reflectors and, if exceeding 6 metres in length, amber side reflectors. The reflective warning triangle is commonly installed on the rear of caravans, combining the mandatory reflector and trailer identification function in a single approved unit.

Truck and semi-trailer reflectors

Trucks and semi-trailers must be equipped with approved reflectors at the rear (red) and along the sides (amber), distributed across the full vehicle length. Vehicles over 6 metres and semi-trailers are also required to use ECE-approved reflective contour tape (Class C / ECE 104) to enhance side visibility at night.

What do regulations say about reflectors?

European regulations precisely define which reflectors are mandatory, where they must be installed and the approval standards required. The reflectors in our range comply with ECE approval (United Nations Economic Commission for Europe), the recognised standard across Europe for passive signalling devices.

Installing non-approved reflectors or positioning them incorrectly may result in inspection failures and legal liability in the event of an accident. All products in this category carry the approval marking code directly on the reflector, ensuring full traceability and compliance during roadside checks or inspections.

Frequently asked questions about trailer reflectors

How many reflectors does a trailer require?

A light trailer requires at least two red rear reflectors (one on each side). If it exceeds 6 metres in length, it must also have amber side reflectors. Many trailers also feature a rear reflective warning triangle centrally mounted. Always check the applicable regulations for your specific trailer type and dimensions.

Are reflectors fitted at the front or rear of a trailer?

Position depends on colour. White reflectors are installed at the front. Amber reflectors are fitted on the sides. Red reflectors are fitted at the rear. The reflective triangle is always installed at the rear.

What is the difference between a reflector and a retro-reflective marker?

In everyday language, both terms refer to the same road safety device that reflects light back toward its source. In technical regulations, the term “retro-reflective device” is commonly used, while “reflector” is more informal. Equivalent terms include retro-reflector and reflex reflector.

Are reflectors mandatory for vehicle inspection?

Yes. Reflectors are mandatory under European regulations for all vehicles towing trailers. During periodic inspection, authorities verify their presence, correct positioning and valid approval marking. Our reflectors are ECE approved and fully compliant for inspection.

Where is the reflective triangle installed on a trailer?

The reflective warning triangle is installed on the rear of the trailer or caravan, centrally positioned, between 250 mm and 900 mm above ground level. Its purpose is to clearly indicate the rear extremity of the vehicle combination. Our reflective triangle model complies with standard ECE dimensions for trailers, semi-trailers, caravans and motorhomes.

Related categories

• LED rear lights — active rear lighting for trailer and truck
• Marker lights — LED side marker lighting for trucks and semi-trailers
• Connectors and adapters — electrical connections for trailer installations