Top 10: Buying a Horse Trailer

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There's something about the onset of springtime that makes many of us want to trade in, or upgrade our trailers. Or, maybe you're about to purchase your first trailer. We've compiled our Top 10: Buying a Horse Trailer to provide a few pointers on what to consider when making a purchase.

1. Aluminum or Steel? Steel can rust. Aluminum won't and aluminum trailers are typically lighter, making them an easier pull. An aluminum trailer will hold its value longer, but it's usually a more costly initial investment. If you go with an aluminum trailer, make sure you get what you pay for. Some companies state they are an aluminum trailer, but actually wrap aluminum around steel making the rig heavier to pull and also susceptible to rust. A benefit of aluminum is not having to paint it to keep it looking sharp, but in general, a steel trailer is stronger and more rugged (provided it's not rusted through). The looks and life of a steel trailer can be greatly extended by keeping it dry (cleaning it out after hauling) and washing any road salt off after winter hauling, if you're in the north that is. Another note for people in the north: check to see if your state uses magnesium chloride to de-ice roads instead of salt, magnesium chloride will also eat away at aluminum.
2. How's the Warranty? If new, make sure your trailer comes with a satisfactory warranty.
3. Standing in Comfort. Pretty is nice, but only goes so far. You'll want to make sure to notice the floor mats and walls of the trailer. We recommend ¾ inch rubber flooring which will provide a nice cushioned ride and stable footing, reducing the risk of injury. Many new trailers offer air shock support which also reduces the stress on your horse, especially for long hauls. We also like to see a healthy amount of rubber padding on the walls with smooth edges; no exposed rough edges or rivets. An abundance of padding on the walls will also reduce the noise level in the trailer which can help keep your horse calm.
4. Wear Your Seatbelt. We're firm believers in tying your horse for travel in the trailer. We like plenty of welded tie rings in our rigs and, if possible, rubber coated ones. Again, this will cut down on the noise factor for your horse.
5. Give Your Horse Space. Dividers are an immensely important element when evaluating a trailer. They need to be easy to secure and release and well padded. Ideally the divider is one solid material that locks securely into a recess in the trailer wall so that it won't shimmy or make noise. A lock system that protrudes into the trailer area is just one more thing your horse can hit or injure itself on when entering or exiting the trailer. We feel trailers with white interiors give the appearance of more room and is a brighter option than other interior colors which will also aid in keeping your horse calm.
6. Breathing Room. Check out the amount of light and air that can enter the trailer. You want to have ample air flow. How big are the windows? Are they easy to open and close without awkward handles or cables? Is the feed door big enough with a solid seal? You want plenty of ventilation – especially in the hot summer months. Ideally there are ventilation vents down the center of the trailer to provide the best circulation of air. Make sure wherever the vents are that they're screened to prevent debris from entering the trailer.
7. Are you compatible? Make sure the trailer you buy fits the hauling requirements of your vehicle when fully loaded with horses and your stuff. We recommend hitching the trailer to your vehicle before you buy. Think about the brakes; does it have drum or disc? Consider whether surge brakes will suffice, or if you should upgrade to electric brakes.
8. Form and Function. Trailers hold your horses, but they also transport your stuff. If you're buying a trailer with a tack room take a look at how what you put in that room will be secured. Do you want an air conditioned tack room? Can you get at it easily on the road without having to disturb the horses? Where is the hay stored? If on top of the trailer, is it easily accessible for you? Are there enough dome lights? A good trailer should help keep you comfortable and well organized.
9. New or Used? We're all about practicality at U Rock ‘n Ride. You can find some great deals on used trailers out there, just make sure you consider your ability to care for a trailer with a few miles on it, and understand the true residual value before making an offer. We strongly recommend doing a “pre-purchase” on your trailer; have a professional at a local body shop check it out for soundness. Make sure the tires are in good shape and are trailer, not automobile, tires. Bring a gauge and check that the tire pressure is even; if it's not it could indicate a bent axle or other problems. Check tire tread for even wear. Uneven wear could mean wheel bearings are going, or just sloppy construction from the factory. Does it come with a spare tire? Check the tongue jacks for proper functionality. Most smaller to mid-sized trailers have a hand crank to raise or lower the tongue; make sure the handle cranks easily, causing the tongue to raise and lower with minimal effort. Wiring in older trailers can sometimes be a little challenging. Make sure wiring is enclosed and the connections are good, especially from the trailer to your vehicle so all lights work properly.
10. Shop Around. Whether you're looking for a new or used trailer, there are plenty on the market right now. If you're going new and don't see exactly what you want, the dealer can probably custom order a model for you without too much additional expense. Be particular about what you want and what's best for both you and your horses.

Did we miss anything? Share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences by posting a comment below.

Comments  

Posted On

May 02, 2008

Posted By

nater77

Comments about this article can be posted here.

Posted On

May 02, 2008

Posted By

tattooed reiner

Great article, with plenty of helpful information.

Posted On

May 04, 2008

Posted By

pifee

Great article, I liked the tips :-). How do you feel about mangers?

Posted On

May 05, 2008

Posted By

Appaloosa

Woo

My Family just bought a 4H trailer with LQ! Its amazing!!
nice article!!

Posted On

Jan 22, 2009

Posted By

sticktoyhorse

Thanks for sharing alot of great info!

Posted On

Feb 04, 2009

Posted By

friesiansownme

I just bought my first trailer! I got a GREAT deal on a used 2004, XT/XW. Looks brand new! I pretty much followed the same things you discussed in your article! Nice job, and thank you!

Posted On

Mar 25, 2009

Posted By

SKI

HEY YA'LL, GO FIGURE, NOT ONLY AM I NEW TO THE SITE, BUT I'M BUYING MY FIRST HORSE TRAILER THIS YEAR. THE ARTICLE COVERED EVERYTHING THAT I WANTED AND NEEDED TO KNOW , WHEN I NEEDED IT. I WILL POST PICTURES IN AUGUST WHEN I PICK IT UP AND PUT IT TO USE.

Posted On

Apr 02, 2009

Posted By

Nami

I too bought my first trailer last year I researched a lot . And decided with the price of gas ( looks like it will hover around 2.00 in Mn. this summer ) to go with something Euro .. They come out of Texas but the frame is from Belgium .. Compare them all to each other, then compare to a Brenderup . Nam seems to love it and it is so easy to use !! I can do it myself .. No husband

Posted On

May 06, 2009

Posted By

kent

One other thing to take in to consideration is if you have 2 horses you may want to get a 3 horse because it never fails you will need to haul an extra horse specially if you have a mare. I opted for a steel frame and aluminum sided trailer

Posted On

May 17, 2009

Posted By

Jerzy Cowgirl

Thanks for the info.;-) I will keep it in mind when I start looking for a trailer.;-)

Posted On

Jun 12, 2009

Posted By

haley34

I bought a Lakota trailer last year which was new last year. I really waas happy about this purchase. Here in Wyoming it is a pull type which travels well and you don't even know that it is there. It has all the things mentioned in the article and I compare it to a Caddy for my horse.

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