Purchasing a horse float is a significant investment for any horse owner, whether you’re a professional equestrian, a hobbyist, or a breeder. Your horses’ safety and comfort during transport depend largely on the quality and suitability of the horse float you choose. In Australia, with its unique climate and often rugged terrain, there are several important factors to keep in mind when shopping for a horse float.
This guide will explore the Top 5 factors to consider when buying a horse float in Australia. By paying attention to these essential elements, you can ensure that you’re making a well-informed decision that will serve both you and your horses for years to come.
1. Safety Features: Prioritizing Your Horse’s Well-Being
When buying a horse float, the safety of your horse should be the top priority. Transporting horses can be stressful, not only for the animals but also for the owner, knowing that even minor flaws in the float’s design or construction could result in injury. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a horse float equipped with robust safety features.
a. Reinforced Construction
One of the key safety features to look for is reinforced construction. The frame, walls, and roof must be sturdy enough to withstand impacts or accidents. Strong materials like galvanized steel or aluminum ensure that the float is durable and can endure the Australian climate, whether it’s the scorching summer sun or torrential rains.
b. Non-Slip Flooring
A non-slip floor is another essential safety feature. Horses often shift their weight while traveling, and a slippery surface could result in the horse losing its balance, leading to serious injury. Look for a horse float with anti-slip mats or rubberized flooring to provide your horse with stable footing throughout the journey.
c. Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation helps keep horses cool and comfortable, particularly in Australia’s warmer regions. Poor ventilation can cause horses to overheat, which may lead to stress or heat exhaustion. Ensure that the float is equipped with windows or vents that allow for sufficient airflow without exposing the horse to harsh winds or rain.
d. Padding and Dividers
Dividers and padding are important for securing horses within the float. Dividers should be adjustable and sturdy enough to prevent horses from moving into each other’s space. Proper padding on the walls and dividers ensures that horses won’t injure themselves if they lean or rub against the sides of the float during transit.
2. Size and Capacity: Ensuring Ample Space for Comfort
Choosing the right size horse float is critical to your horse’s comfort and safety. Horses are large, sensitive animals, and they need enough room to stand, move slightly, and balance themselves without feeling cramped. The size and capacity of the float should match both the number of horses you’ll be transporting and their size.
a. Horse Height and Length
The height and length of your horses are important factors when determining the appropriate size of the float. If the float is too short or narrow, your horse could feel confined and stressed, which may make loading and unloading more difficult. As a general rule, the horse float should be tall enough for your horse to stand comfortably without touching the roof, with extra room at the front and back.
For larger breeds such as Thoroughbreds or Warmbloods, you may need an extra-tall or extra-wide float, while smaller breeds like ponies can comfortably travel in a standard-sized float.
b. Number of Horses
Consider how many horses you’ll be transporting on a regular basis. If you typically travel with one or two horses, a standard two-horse float may be sufficient. However, if you transport more than two horses regularly, you’ll need a larger float with multiple bays.
Some horse floats come with options for additional bays or configurations that allow more than two horses to be transported in the same trip, but it’s important to ensure that the float’s weight distribution and towing capacity are still safe.
c. Adjustable Dividers
Adjustable dividers are useful for providing enough space between horses, especially if you’re transporting horses of different sizes. Some horse floats offer adjustable-width bays, which can be configured based on the number and size of horses you’re transporting. This flexibility ensures that your horses remain comfortable and safe, regardless of their size.
3. Towing Vehicle Compatibility: Matching the Right Float to Your Vehicle
One often overlooked factor when buying a horse float is whether your towing vehicle can safely and effectively tow the float. The weight of your horses, combined with the weight of the float, must fall within the towing capacity of your vehicle. Failure to match the right float with your vehicle can result in unsafe driving conditions and potential damage to your vehicle.
a. Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM)
The Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) refers to the total weight of the float, horses, equipment, and any additional cargo. It’s essential to ensure that the GVM of the float doesn’t exceed your vehicle’s towing capacity. Overloading your towing vehicle can strain the engine, brakes, and suspension, leading to unsafe driving conditions.
Before purchasing a horse float, check your vehicle’s towing capacity in the manufacturer’s manual or consult with a mechanic. You’ll want a vehicle that can not only handle the weight of the float and horses but also provide a smooth, stable ride, even on rough Australian roads.
b. Electric Braking Systems
Larger horse floats may require an electric braking system for added safety. These braking systems are designed to work in sync with your vehicle’s brakes, providing additional stopping power, which is especially useful when towing a fully-loaded float.
If your float has an electric braking system, ensure that your vehicle is equipped with the necessary brake controller to operate the system effectively. This will provide smoother, more controlled braking, reducing the risk of accidents.
c. Tow Bar and Hitch
The tow bar and hitch on your vehicle must be rated for the weight of the horse float. Make sure to have your tow bar inspected regularly to ensure it remains in good condition and can handle the weight of the float. A mismatched or faulty tow bar can cause dangerous situations on the road.
4. Budget and Cost Considerations: Finding the Best Value
Buying a horse float is a significant financial investment, and it’s essential to consider your budget carefully. Horse floats vary widely in price, depending on factors such as size, material, age, and additional features. Understanding your budget and what you’re looking for in a float can help you find the best value without compromising on quality.
a. New vs. Used Horse Floats
One of the first decisions to make is whether to buy a new or used horse float. New horse floats come with the advantage of being in pristine condition, often with the latest safety features and warranties. However, they tend to be more expensive and may not always offer the best value if you’re working within a tight budget.
On the other hand, used horse floats can be a more cost-effective option, provided they have been well-maintained. At reputable dealerships like Netto Anna Horse Float, used floats are thoroughly inspected and serviced to ensure they meet safety standards. Buying a used horse float from a trusted seller can save you money without sacrificing safety or reliability.
b. Financing Options
Many dealerships offer financing options, which can make purchasing a horse float more affordable. If you’re buying a high-end or custom-designed float, financing can help spread out the cost over time, making the investment more manageable.
It’s worth discussing financing options with the dealership and understanding the terms, such as interest rates, repayment periods, and any additional fees that may be associated with the loan.
c. Insurance Costs
When budgeting for a horse float, don’t forget to factor in the cost of insurance. Horse floats, like any vehicle, should be insured to cover potential damages, accidents, or theft. The cost of insurance will depend on the age and condition of the float, its value, and how frequently you use it.
Consult with your insurance provider to get an accurate quote for insuring your horse float and include this in your overall budget considerations.
5. Additional Features and Customization: Tailoring the Float to Your Needs
Many horse floats come with a range of optional features and customizations that can enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. These additional features can significantly improve your horse’s traveling experience and make your life easier, especially if you frequently transport horses.
a. Storage Compartments
Storage compartments are a practical feature to look for in a horse float. These compartments provide space to store gear, tack, feed, water, and other essentials, keeping everything organized and within easy reach. Some floats even come with built-in saddle racks or bridle hooks, making it easier to access your equipment at any time.
b. Living Quarters
For those who travel long distances with their horses, horse floats with living quarters can be a game-changer. These floats come equipped with small kitchens, sleeping areas, and sometimes even bathrooms, allowing you to rest comfortably during long trips or competitions.
While horse floats with living quarters tend to be more expensive, they offer unparalleled convenience for those who spend a lot of time on the road with their horses. If you travel frequently for competitions, investing in a float with living quarters could be worth the extra cost.
c. Camera Systems
Another modern feature that enhances the safety of horse floats is the inclusion of internal camera systems. These cameras allow you to monitor your horse while driving, ensuring that they remain calm and safe throughout the journey. Some camera systems also provide rear-view assistance for parking and reversing the float, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
d. Suspension and Ride Quality
Horse floats with advanced suspension systems offer a smoother ride for both your horse and your towing vehicle. Poor suspension can cause a bumpy, uncomfortable journey, which could lead to stress or injury
