Top Tips For First-Time Horsebox Owners

Horseboxes are the best way to safely transport your horses. If you’re new to horse ownership, or just new to needing to transport them, this large piece of equipment can seem overwhelming. If you’re buying your first horsebox, use these handy tips to choose and use the horsebox.





Know The Law

If you opt for a standalone horsebox, rather than a horsebox with a driver cabin, you should double-check the laws and requirements for towing. Make sure your towing vehicle is suitable for pulling the weight of your horsebox when it’s fully laden. Check your car’s handbook to see what it can tow.


Don’t be tempted by offers of red diesel for your horsebox. Red diesel is not taxed for road use, so it should only be used on vehicles off-road at your stables. Tests are often carried out at shows, so don’t risk it. Red diesel or gas oil are great options for farm vehicles though, so read about it there to check it out.

Choose The Right Horsebox


There’s a lot of makes and models of horseboxes, all designed for different purposes and budgets. Research before you decide what to buy to decide which is the best for you and your horses.


A single horsebox is the best option for individual horses or horses that won’t travel in company. These are also lower weight, so can often be towed by a normal car. Multiple horse options can carry up to five ponies, but due to weight restrictions, most shouldn’t carry more than two large horses. For longer distances, some horseboxes have more space for a tack room, so you have room to transport other things that you think you might need.

Get To Know Your Horsebox


Your horsebox is a large piece of equipment. Just like you would with a new car, you need to get to know all the functions and features, so you can use it correctly and avoid any potential issues. Most horseboxes will have lockable doors, windows, ventilation, and a ramp. Each horse float will be slightly different, so always check the user handbook.

Before every journey, you need to check your lights are working properly, the brakes are off, and is properly attached to the towing vehicle. Check your tire pressure, and make sure you’ve fixed your vehicle registration number to the horsebox.

Horseboxes will need some general maintenance to keep it in good condition, to prevent rot and rust which could cause a lot of damage.

Insure Your Horsebox

It’s smart to insure your horsebox for damage, theft, and breakdown. Call your car insurer, and see what’s covered under your standard insurance. You might be able to extend your insurance to cover your horsebox, or it may need a separate policy. Get a few quotes before you commit to a policy to make sure you’re getting a competitive quote that covers everything that you need.

Protect your horsebox even more with hitch locks, tongue locks, coupler locks, trailer-wheel locks, alarms, and tracking devices.

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