Remember Me
forgot your password?

How to Pick a Trailer

Buying a trailer the first time can be overwhelming if you don't know anything about rigs. It's best to take a friend with you who hauls their own horses. Even then, you'll still have to provide information on your horse and truck to make sure you get the right trailer.

Where to Find a Trailer

Most people would rather not pay full price for a trailer if they don't have to. Look in the classifieds of your local newspaper; go to your local tack store. Both will have ads for trailers; the tack shop might have a photograph of the trailer which is always helpful. You can also ask the staff if they know the person selling the trailer, about the type of trailer, etc. You can also post an ad at the tack shop for a trailer which might quicken the process. It will take a while to find the right one, so be patient.

Used trailers can be found on websites, but you're always taking a chance if you buy off the web. It's better to buy the trailer off a lot - new or used - because you can check out the overall condition of the trailer; see if there are rust spots or other damage the seller hasn't fully disclosed. Make sure you get a warranty if one is available.

The necessary details

You'll need to know the length, width, height and weight of your horse to make sure you get the right size rig. They come in a few standard heights: 7 feet, 7 feet 4 inches, and 7 feet 6 inches. Most 15 to 16 hand horses will easily fit in a 7 foot tall rig, but the added height is an advantage if plan to get another horse in the future or want to haul someone else's' horse. If your horse is over 16 hands, you'd want to get the 7 foot 6 inch rig.

You need to know the weight capacity of your hitch and the towing capacity of your truck. And finally, you'll also need the gross trailer weight, which is determined by adding the weight of the trailer and the weight of the cargo you'll carry inside it. Don't forget to include all the other horse gear - saddle, show clothes, tack, water buckets, hay, and anything else you'll be carrying. Make sure you don't exceed the towing capacity of your vehicle or the weight capacity of your hitch. All trucks have labels and paperwork saying what their towing capacity is. Make sure you have this information when looking for trailers.

Slant Load or Straight Load Trailer

Most slant loads come with a dressing room which is great for horse shows or trail rides. Make sure to measure slant loads and well as straight loads since the dressing room may take up space for your horse and may then be too short and narrow.

Some manufacturers think slant loads are less stressful for a horse because they can lean on the dividers to rest if needed. You can also turn your horse around in a slant load and don't need to worry about backing them out if it's an issue for your horse.

The Material Choice

The majority of rigs are made of either steel or aluminum. Steel is stronger, heavier and will hold up in an accident or crash. A steel trailer will cost less, but you may need to spend more on upkeep later if the trailer rusts. Since the steel trailer is heavier, it will affect the towing capacity of your vehicle, so keep the weight difference in mind. An aluminum trailer weighs less then a steel trailer and will be more expensive. However, an aluminum trailer will hold its value better and want to trade up for a new or larger model. Aluminum trailers tend to dent easier, which could be a problem if your horse is restless when being moved and tends to kick.

Before you start looking for a rig, do some research. . Go to a horse expo, check out a truck dealership. Consider sharing your rig with a friend who also goes to horse shows. He/she can help with the gas costs and you'll have someone to go to shows when other people at your barn may be busy. Be safe, stay within your budget and have fun wherever you go!

Edna X Wilson
Edna X Wilson is a writer for www.HorseClicks.com, popular classifieds of horses for sale, horse property and trailers for sale.
Rate this Article: 0 / 5 stars - 0 vote(s)
Print Email Re-Publish


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-to-pick-a-trailer-487873.html
Add new Comment



Captcha

  • Latest Pets Articles
  • More from Edna X Wilson

The French Bulldog Used As A Show Dog

By: John Jackson | 06/07/2009
When choosing a French Bulldog as a show dog, it is important to be selective and choosy. The breed standard for the French Bulldog is very particular, so obtaining knowledge of the breed standard for show dogs is very important.

The Differences Between A Collie And Sheltie

By: John Jackson | 06/07/2009
Shelties are known as Shetland Sheepdogs when referring to their breed name. They are oftentimes confused with a Collie, and sometimes even called "miniature collies."

Chihuahuas: Urban Legends And Myths About The Breed

By: John Jackson | 06/07/2009
Urban legends are also known as folklore, often these tales are concocted by people of a bygone time period who have tried to offer up explanations about the unexplained.

The Australian Shepherd: A Show Dog

By: John Jackson | 06/07/2009
Australian Shepherds are commonly used as working dogs or as pets. There has now been an increase in purchasing this breed as a show dog.

Should You Crop Your Boxer's Ears

By: John Jackson | 06/07/2009
A highly sensitive topic in many boxer communities is ear cropping which was at one time considered to be a standard practice, but in recent times has fallen into disfavor because it is viewed as cruel and potentially dangerous to the dog.

Chewing, Exercise And The Miniature Pinscher

By: John Jackson | 06/07/2009
Even though the Miniature Pinscher is a small dog, as an owner, you must remember to provide enough exercise and stimulation to have a happy pet that doesn't decide to eat some of your favorite things. It would be an unfortunate error for you to think that this small dog will not require much exercise.

Proper Feeding For A Miniature Pinscher

By: John Jackson | 06/07/2009
When your Min Pin is old enough and ready to leave the breeder, you will most likely leave with your new pup and a sufficient amount of food for a least a week. You will have done your homework and will follow the breeder's instructions for feeding. Keep in mind that the dog's feeding needs will change as he dog gets older.

See If A Miniature Pinscher Is the Right Breed For Your Home

By: John Jackson | 06/07/2009
Some dog owners have decided that they like the size and appearance of the Miniature Pinscher. They get the Miniature Pinscher and then may be surprised when the dog behaves according to its nature, trapping and chewing on some items that should not be chewed.

How to Pick a Horse Trainer

By: Edna X Wilson | 17/07/2008 | Pets
When looking for a trainer, you need to decide what your goals are. They may change depending on what you and your horse decide to do, but at least have an idea of what you want to do. Do you want to show or just take lessons? Do you want...

The Fell Pony Breed Review

By: Edna X Wilson | 17/07/2008 | Pets
History The Fell Pony gets its name, FELL, from the Norse word meaning "hill." During the four centuries of Roman occupation on the border between England and Scotland, extra troops - French, Dutch, German, Polish, Spanish and eastern European cavalrymen -- were brought in to protect Hadrian's Wall which separated the...

How to Choose a Barn For You and Your Horse

By: Edna X Wilson | 17/07/2008 | Pets
Choosing a barn ought to be easy but it may take a few moves to find the right fit of cost, location, horse care and people. It's a tricky thing, finding the right place for you and your horse. If your horse and riding are a large part of your...

How to Prepare For a Horse Show

By: Edna X Wilson | 17/07/2008 | Sports & Fitness
When you're getting ready for a horse show, it's always best to have a list of things you need to take with you. Invariably everyone forgets something, so it's best if you have your own list of tings to bring and your trainer has his or hers. Don't depend...

How to Choose Your First Event Horse

By: Edna X Wilson | 17/07/2008 | Pets
To have a safe and enjoyable eventing experience, you need the right horse for the job. It starts with choosing the right horse to partner with for entry level eventing. If you already own a horse, these guidelines will help you decide whether he's a good fit for the sport....

Avoid Scam When Buying

By: Edna X Wilson | 17/07/2008 | Pets
Internet fraud is prevalent everywhere and the horse industry is no exception. If you can avoid selling your horse over the internet, do so. But if the Internet is your only option or you chose to buy/sell your horse or tack on-line be aware of the following inherent obstacles. Dubbed the...

Submit Your Articles Free: Signup


Article Categories




Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the Terms Of Use and Privacy Policy | User published content is licensed under a Creative Commons License.
Copyright © 2005-2008 Free Articles by ArticlesBase.com, All rights reserved. (0.27, 8)