Are you on the quest for a unique carrier for your horse? But do not know where to start or what to consider? Afraid that you might be taken “for a ride”? Then you are on the right page. If you need expert advice before purchasing that used trailer you’ve been eyeing, then we’ve got you covered!
For many horse owners, buying an expensive new horse trailer solely isn’t an option, especially when there are so many deals to be had in the second-hand market. But of course, you will prefer something protected and durable as well as budget-friendly.
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1. Take a Quick Research
Are you already done with your intensive research?
It is better to know what you exactly need before purchasing one. It pays off to take a closer look at the trailer you are contemplating. The security and comfort of your horse are vital when it comes to venturing in used horse trailers, but you will also need them to be compatible with your towing vehicle. Have adequate storage for all your junk, and fit into your equestrian lifestyle.
With such a wide variety of styles, models, quality, and brands of horse trailers in the market, It can be confusing in search for the perfect example. That is why it is so crucial on the time your inquiring to find what is satisfactory for your needs and budget.
All trailers will have their pros and cons and some will fit your necessities better than others. Understanding the models will make it easier for you to spot conceivable problems.
Flip through reviews from trusted sources and consult around to find out what serves other people in the same situations as you. Moving a horse can be a stressful experience, both for you and your equine friend, but having the right kind of trailer will make things so much more effortless.
2. Check The Weight
Is your vehicle capable of towing this trailer?
With a wide spectrum of used horse trailer sizes on offer, recognising your needs and the towing ability of your tow vehicle is essential. Before the viewing, inspect if the trailer and towing vehicle are suitable and that the hybrid does not surpass the legal weight limits. Double-check in the manufacturer’s handbook for both your towing vehicle and trailer. Many of these are easily available online.
It is against the law for a towing vehicle and its trailer to surpass the maximum weight limit as prescribed by the manufacturer. The maximum weights for your towing vehicle should be displayed on a manufacturer’s plate or sticker usually fixed to the inside of the passenger door frame.
3. Review Your Driving License
Does your driving license allow you to tow this trailer?
When running on public roads, towing a horse trailer can impose a different type of driving license. Relying on the vehicle and trailer combination you might even need to take a further driving test to drive legally.
See Different Horse Trailer Types
4. Know The Dimensions
Is it the right size trailer for your horse?
Fundamental as we know, but it can be a simple mistake to arise, particularly if you are getting a trailer for the first time. Looking for used horse trailers can get tiring and if you are in a hurry you might make a disastrous decision.
Know that during transport, it is vital that your horse can keep their balance. If not, a defect to the trailer and serious injury to your horse could happen. To balance, your horse needs to be able to stretch its legs and use both its neck and head for stability.
Horses like to take different stances when being carried, whereas some manufacturers only consider the peak of a concave roof as its maximum length. Look for a trailer so that no issue where your horse stands, it will have plenty of headroom.
5. First Impressions Matters
Is it in good overall condition?
When you first have to look at a horse trailer it is all too easy to get overwhelmed, but first impressions do count. Whether through pressure or excitement it is easy to ignore early warning signs.
Double-check the description in the ad, how precise is it? If the seller has been less than forthcoming with the truths in the advert, other alarming surprises might you uncover further along the road.
How does the trailer look in general? Is it neat and well maintained? While faded paint can be anticipated, the owner who has not made the slightest effort to keep the trailer looking decent might not have maintained the more important mechanical and electrical systems either. On the flip side, a freshly coated trailer could be a sign of the owner making a step to conceal something more sinister.
6. Check the Security Marks
Stealing equine property such as tack and horse trailers is an unfortunately popular risk of owning a horse. So, once you have entirely scanned the trailer for sale and you are contented it is in a roadworthy state, then you will need to check if it is not stolen.
Horse trailer heist is all too common in the UK. So, if you are looking for a used horse trailer, the possibilities are some of the ads you see might be for stolen trailers. It is always reasonable to find out now because if a trailer is subsequently revealed to be stolen it could be seized by the police or an insurance company.
7. Reassess the Title
Does the seller have proof of ownership?
Ask the seller for proof of possession such as a purchase invoice, instruction book, safety instructions, and so on. Another thing to consider is where are you viewing the trailer?
Never view, buy, or meet the salesperson in a public place away from their home or dealership premises. If you find yourself in a car park, lay-by, or service station then alarm bells should be ringing.
8. Take a Stroll
Take any used horse trailers for a test drive to examine if they tow evenly.
If feasible, there is nothing better than taking a trailer for a test drive before buying. Begin at around walking speed to check if everything seems precise. Slowly boost your speed to around 10mph and see if there is any drag or unstable pull.
Push the brakes to check stopping power. Does the trailer move from side to side when driving or braking? Now raise the speed to around 40mph and check for stability or swaying. Does the trailer follow directly behind your vehicle? Finally, slow down and stop. Did you notice any problems stopping or controlling the vehicle or trailer?
9. Inspect the Maintenance History
Does the trailer have promising service? When was the trailer last repaired? What maintenance work has been done on the trailer? Does the seller have any invoices or paperwork to endorse that? If the used horse trailer sounds very cheap, be cautioned.
10. Ask For Receipt and Warranty
Some used horse trailers can be almost new. If so, is there a manufacturer’s warranty still in effect, and can it be transferred to you? Always demand a signed receipt that contains the address of the seller.
These are some of the most significant facets to assess before acquiring a second-hand used horse trailer. A detailed systematic approach to analysing trailers and you will not regret using it. It might even save you from an expensive mistake in the foreseeable future.
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