Ford UK built the Thames Trader between 1957 and 1965. The distinctive cab, which sets it apart from other British commercial vehicles of the time, was a semi-forward control design and the Thames Trader model covered a much wider weight range than the existing or previous Ford UK trucks. The earlier models had been based on Ford of America designs; the new Thames Trader was the first heavy commercial to be designed by Ford of Britain although there are styling cues from The US Ford C Series.

The Thames Trader model range covered weights from 2 to 7 tons, powered by either petrol or diesel engines in four- or six-cylinder guises. A Mk 2 version was introduced in mid-1962, the Vanguards model is of the Mk.2 truck.