When it comes to transporting horses, owners are faced with two main choices – horsebox or horse trailer. Both options allow horse owners to travel to competitions, shows, or training sessions. However, there are some key differences between the two, and understanding them can help owners decide which option suits them best.
A horsebox is a vehicle designed specifically for transporting horses. It has its own engine and doesn’t need a separate towing vehicle. Horseboxes range from smaller 3.5-tonne lorries that can be driven on a standard car licence to larger 7.5-tonne and HGV-sized lorries that require additional driving qualifications.
Larger horseboxes often come with built-in living quarters, providing accommodation for overnight stays. Depending on the size, a horsebox can carry up to seven or eight horses. Smaller 3.5-tonne horseboxes offer an easy-to-drive solution without the need for an additional towing vehicle but it’s important to check the payload – many 3.5-tonne horseboxes can’t legally carry two large horses once the weight of the driver, fuel, tack, and equipment is factored in.
A horse trailer is a separate, towable unit that attaches to a vehicle using a tow hitch. Because a trailer doesn’t have an engine, it’s a more affordable and lower-maintenance option. The number of horses a trailer can carry varies, but most standard trailers accommodate one or two horses, although some larger models can hold up to three or four.
In a trailer, horses can travel facing forwards, backwards, or herringbone depending on the trailer’s design, but the key issue is actually the towing capacity of the vehicle. Not all cars are capable of towing horses safely so it’s essential to check the maximum towing capacity of the vehicle and the payload of the trailer.
Of course, one of the biggest differences between a horsebox and a horse trailer is upfront cost. A trailer is generally cheaper to buy and maintain than a horsebox, however, owners need to ensure their vehicle has sufficient towing capacity otherwise it may mean an expensive vehicle upgrade.
The additional costs of a horsebox include road tax, MOT, servicing, insurance, and fuel, so running a horsebox is similar to running an extra car. Nevertheless, for those who regularly travel long distances, a horsebox can be a more convenient and economical option, especially if it includes living space for overnight stays.
Although a horse trailer doesn’t have an engine, meaning there is less that can go wrong mechanically, it still needs essential service and maintenance checks.
And for horseboxes, an older lorry can present problems as while they may offer more space, they often require expensive repairs. A newer, smaller horsebox may be a more reliable investment in the long run.
Storage is another important consideration when choosing between the two. A larger horsebox will need a dedicated parking space when it’s not in use – so a trailer may be easier to store as it can be kept in a driveway or yard.
Horseboxes are generally easier to drive and manoeuvre than a trailer so inexperienced drivers may find a horsebox a more practical, easier option, especially as they tend to perform better in high winds compared to trailers. It’s an important safety consideration for those who frequently travel in unpredictable conditions.
So how do you choose?
Choosing between a horsebox and a horse trailer depends on personal circumstances and needs. If you compete regularly and travel long distances, a horsebox may be the best option as it provides comfort, storage, and stability on the road. However, for less frequent travel, a horse trailer may be a more cost-effective and flexible solution.
A horsebox requires additional running costs and a suitable parking space, whereas a trailer is more affordable but requires a suitable towing vehicle.
Regardless of the choice, it is always advisable to have any horsebox or trailer inspected by a qualified technician before purchase to ensure safety and reliability. At Cheshire Trailers, from drop off to collection, our trailer experts will be on hand or at the end of the phone to offer advice and answer your questions.
