Buyer's Guide To Horseboxes
If you're looking into the prospect of buying a used horsebox, take a look at our brief guide which outlines essentials to look out for.
The information provided below is simply sensible recommendation to consider before you drive head-fist into the wrong horsebox.
Dealership or Private Sale?
Whilst browsing through the classified ads you’ll come across a myriad of horseboxes varying in size, type, age, price and location, but is there an advantage to buying from a dealer or would you be more sensible to buy privately?
Benefits of buying from a dealer
Often good quality stock
Likely to have a selection to choose from
You may be able to research customer reviews
As a buyer you will be covered by The Sales of Goods Act 1979 which means the trailer has to be sold ‘fit for purpose’. Should anything go wrong with the trailer you will have legal rights to return to the dealer and have the issues resolved.
Disadvantages
You will often pay a higher price
Benefits of buying from a private sale
Often pay less for your horsebox – get more for your money
The seller will often give you a history of its use and care
Disadvantages
No protection should anything go wrong
What To Look For
With such a wide variety of horseboxes available for sale you need to be a little careful when it comes to selecting a good buy. But what do you need to look out for?
Floor – Inspect for soundness; lift any matting to check for signs of rot or kick damage and look underneath for cracks. Pay special attention to the edges where the floor meets the horsebox walls.
Ramps – As with floors, lift the matting and check for rot and damage. Also pay attention to hinges for signs of wear and tear and make sure the ramps are easy to lift and secure.
In the cab – Check that gauges, lights, indicators, wipers, horn and warning lights all work correctly and check the play of the steering wheel.
Engine – Check for oil leaks on the ground, and ensure the engine is cold when you view as some issues may only be apparent when trying to cold start.
Electrics – Ensure that all the interior and external lights work.
Roof – Check the roof carefully for any signs of leaking which can, in turn, lead to rot. Check that any ventilation lights or windows are in working order and not leaking.
Tyres – Check that all tyres are in good condition and that there is a serviceable spare tyre. Check tyre wear – uneven wear could be a sign of horse trailer imbalance or suspension problems.
Weight – Check that the weight will not exceed legal limits when fully laden with your horses, tack, passengers and all supplies.
For details on VOSA regulations, browse the guide below:
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