Things To Consider Before You Buy A Livestock Trailer

If you are shopping for a livestock trailer for the first time, there are quite a few things you need to know. You have to take several factors into consideration before you make the purchase. Your tow vehicle must be able to handle the trailer, first and foremost. However, there are many other things to think about as you shop for your trailer. Here is what you need to think about: 

Which Size Trailer Should You Get?

The size of the trailer will be one of the most important things to think about. The size of the trailer will determine the size of animals you can tow, how many animals you can tow, and whether or not you will have room for supplies. For example, if you want a horse trailer, you may want to consider one large enough to have a tack room. Ultimately, you want the animals to be safe and comfortable as you drive. Think about the biggest animal you plan to move and choose a trailer that will tow something at least that large.

What Hitch Do You Need on the Trailer?

The next thing to think about is the hitch. Gooseneck and bumper-pull hitches are the most common hitches on livestock trailers. A bumper-pull hitch will not tow as heavy a trailer, but this hitch may be better for your tow vehicle. A gooseneck trailer is easier when it comes to towing, but you need to have a gooseneck hitch installed on a truck large enough to handle it. A gooseneck hitch often provides additional space in the trailer towards the front. If you want a trailer that provides living space for you, a gooseneck may be the way to go.

What Should You Look for in a Roof and Floor?

When you are making a major investment in a livestock trailer, you should always consider buying one with a roof. Although there are trailers available with no roof and they tend to be more affordable, you will find that you will ultimately want to tow animals in all types of weather conditions. A roof on a trailer is safer for the animals and will keep them from possibly falling out as you drive.

The floor should also be safe. The floor of a livestock trailer should be made from rubber or at least come with rubber mats. Smooth floors can cause the animals to slip and fall. The rubber also helps to keep the floors at a more comfortable temperature. Metal floors can get too hot and harm the animals.

Contact a local livestock trailer service to learn more.