How stupid is your horsebox?
We build and sell 2-stall horseboxes in Scotland.
As a result, we see a lot of trade-ins, so we are constantly looking at the way other manufacturers build theirs, and asking ourselves — is this what the customer really wants?
The same question often comes up at management and production meetings, because we need to be sure, before the first drawing is drawn, or the first pop-rivet popped.
How many times have you looked at your horsebox, or trailer, scratched your head, and wondered “what were they thinking?” If you have, you’ll know exactly where I’m coming from.
So here’s the $64,000 question. Would you be willing to share with us your pet peeves, those things you wish they would have done better, AND all the great features your horsebox offers too, of course? Because, if you would, you can help us create your perfect horsebox, which, new or second-hand — who knows — you may just want to own one day.
Please leave me a message below with your personal perspective, or use the contact form; or maybe just send an email to [email protected]. I’m not asking you to criticize the manufacturer; just tell me what works for you, what doesn’t, and what you need from a horsebox. OK?
I was reminded just the other day that there are still horsebox manufacturers out there building horseboxes with wooden floors https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhAu-yAu9kA
These days I see most of the top horsebox manufacturers are using aluminium planking, with rubber mats. The planking is lighter than steel and stronger than marine ply, because there’s an incredible strength which comes from how the planks lock together.
But there’s also real weight saving to be had by not using rubber mats on the floor, walls and ramp, and spraying a liner instead.
These lining materials look really fantastic! They coat your horsebox or trailer floor and provide a cushioned surface on which your horse can stand. They are a professionally applied spray-on product designed to protect and preserve both the floor and walls, while providing a clean and smoother surface.
I know many horsebox owners dread moving mats regularly in order to wash and dry out after use. So the combination means just one less thing to worry about. Plus, if you use aluminium planking and a sprayed liner together, you’re probably talking about a payload gain of maybe 150Kg – 200Kg.
Not too shabby at all!
Why do Horsebox companies have seating for three people but sleeping for only two! Doesn’t make sense!
Hi Kathryin,
Thanks for your question.
I think it’s primarily a question of payload.
The three seats arrive courtesy of the vehicle manufacturer and are pretty much standard, whichever doner vehicle you use.
There are several overseas manufactures which include a second row of seating and effectivey stretch the cabin back into the horse compartment and even put beds overhead. All of which moves the horse(s) –and therefore the centre of gravity — towards the rear and changes the handling characteristics of the vehicle substantially.
Not only that, but these boxes sometimes struggle to reach a payload of 800-900 Kg, which in my view is a) not enough, and b) is asking for trouble, as the fines for overloading are substatial.
Terence.
I hate the dual back doors on my horse van!
Why not have it made into a single over-size back door? An oversize rear door comes as standard on Fotheringham horsebox, by the way.