Buyers’ Guide
Hit the road Trailers and horseboxes are a big investment, so here’s how to buy with confidence and get the right deal for you and your horse
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ou may well be looking for a new form of transport for your horse, but before you rush out and buy the first bargain you see you need to take a few
moments to stop and think about what you want to use your transport for, what your driving experience is, where you’re going to keep it – and what you can afford.
Trailer vs horsebox Buying a trailer is usually the cheapest option, as running costs are low and they don’t take up much room at the yard. But you do need a suitable vehicle to tow it, and if you passed your driving test after 1997 you’ll need to take a towing test before you can legally tow a trailer. Horseboxes on the other hand, especially the smaller 3.5 tonners, are proving extremely popular at the moment, mainly because you can drive them on a normal
driving licence. Compared to a trailer you’ll have a few more running costs – as well as the usual insurance they also need taxing, just like a car and need an annual MOT, all of which will add to your annual running costs. Basically having a horsebox is like running another vehicle so you’ll need to be prepared for any additional mechanical costs if needed.
expert tip You can take the trailer towing (or category E) test as soon as you’re 17. Contact the Driving Standards Agency to find a test centre near you, call 0300 200 1122. The test fee will set you back around £115.
While trailers are cheaper to buy and run, you will incur the running costs associated with a suitable towing vehicle
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july 2013 your horse