How to Choose the Right Style & Size of Horse Float
Choosing the ideal horse float or horse trailer involves navigating various options tailored to meet different needs. The perfect horse float must ensure the horse's safety, comfort, and well-being while on the road.
In this comprehensive guide, delve deeper into how to choose the right style and size of horse float to meet various needs and preferences. It is crucial to have sufficient knowledge of the diverse horse trailer configurations and assess the horse's specific needs to make an informed decision.
What size horse float do I need?
The first step to consider when choosing the right style and size of horse float to be purchased is how many horses it would accommodate and the size of the horse. While most manufacturers offer each style of horse float in different sizes, it is crucial to ensure that there is plenty of room for the horses so they avoid developing an aversion to travelling in horse floats.
What Makes a Good Horse Float?
A good horse float must be easy to tow and allow handlers to load and unload the horse smoothly without any issues. Moreover, it should create a secure and reassuring environment for travel and accommodate any extra gear and equipment that the horse may need.
Choosing the best horse float that meets specific needs and preferences is an intricate process. It involves a combination of a detailed understanding of engineering, comfort, usability, and style.
What To Look For When Buying a Float?
Shopping for a horse float can be a daunting experience as there are various aspects to consider, such as the following:
The Vehicle's Towing Capacity
The vehicle that will be used to tow the horse float must be able to pull the weight legally. To start with, it is crucial to check the vehicle's ATM or Aggregate Trailer Mass. Some manufacturers include the GTM or Gross Trailer Mass instead, which is always lower than ATM. It is also vital to consider the weight of the horse that will be transported.
Suspension Style of the Horse Float
Various suspension options are available in the market. The suspension styles help limit the amount of shaking and jolting that the horse experiences while being transported from one place to another. Some horse owners prefer rocker roller suspension in their horse trailers, while others prefer torsion suspension.
Ramps and Doors
Many horse floats for sale usually have ramps for easy loading and unloading of horses. Typically, the horse enters from the rear or side of the horse float, where they step up or walk on a ramp into the trailer. Moreover, the horse float has escape doors that enable quick access during emergencies.
Horse Float Flooring
The flooring of a horse float is typically made from materials that provide good traction and are easy to clean. Some horse floats have rubber mats that offer added comfort and safety. Meanwhile, others have treated wood, aluminium, or rubber floors.
Some horse floats also use heavy-duty pressure-treated wooden floors that must be replaced over time. For horse owners who are considering buying a horse trailer, it is crucial to check the flooring and ask when it was last replaced.
Ventilation in the Horse Float
Horse trailers usually have increased ventilation to ensure constant fresh air flow for the horses. It helps regulate the temperature in the horse float and keeps the horses comfortable while being transported, especially in hot and humid weather conditions.
Ventilations in horse floats may include drop-down windows with screens or bars and large sliding windows. The horse trailer must also be well-ventilated so the horse does not overheat while travelling. Overheating can result in the horse catching a chill in cold weather, dehydration, and other health issues.
Height and Size
Horse trailers are usually taller and wider than other cargo trailers, so they can accommodate the height of the horse and enable them to stand comfortably. The size of the horse trailer depends on the number of horses that it is designed to transport from one place to another. Seven ft.–7.6 ft., with 10–11 ft. stalls, is an ideal height range for horse floats.
What are the Different Types of Horse Floats?
Horse trailers come in different types, such as:
Living Quarters Horse Float
A horse float with living quarters is a combination of a trailer and accommodations. This type of horse float is designed for those who want the convenience of having a living space on board. The size and layout of the living quarters may vary, as some have slide-outs that expand the living space while it is parked.
Straight Load Horse Float
In straight-load horse floats, the horses are loaded and unloaded in a straight and forward-facing orientation. The design usually has individual stalls or compartments for each horse. Straight-load horse floats are prominent for transporting one to three horses at the same time.
Angle Load Float
Horse owners can consider an angle-load horse float to load and unload a horse conveniently. In this type of horse float, the horses are loaded at an angle, and the stalls are positioned diagonally. The angled design provides more space and enables the horses to travel comfortably.
Extended Angle Load Horse Float
An extended-angle load float can be a viable solution for transporting larger horses or those that require additional storage space. This type of horse float has an extended length that can accommodate bigger horses and provide extra storage room for different equipment and other necessities.
Gooseneck Horse Float
A gooseneck horse float is a fantastic choice for horse owners who want a luxurious and spacious option when transporting multiple horses. This type of horse float is larger and has a raised section over the towing vehicle called the gooseneck.
Ensure Safe Transit For Your Horse Today With EuroFloat
Horse floats are essential for horse owners who want to transport horses from one place to another. This transportation solution comes in various designs that cater to different horse sizes and travel needs. The right horse float can provide a comfortable and stress-free environment for horses when travelling, which enables them to arrive at their destination in optimal condition.
If you are looking for the best horse float, EuroFloat is a reputable supplier of a wide range of horse floats in Australia. Our products are based on advanced European-influenced designs that fit the rugged Australian environment. With over 20 years of experience with importation, distribution, and sales, we can proficiently deliver your float and accommodate after-sales queries and support.
References:
https://www.acaloans.com.au/blog/horse-float/10-things-to-consider-horse-float/
https://www.farmhousetack.com/blogs/barn-blog/how-to-choose-the-right-style-size-horse-trailer
https://horseyanswers.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-horse-floats-what-they-are-and-why-you-need-one/
