Top Tips For Purchasing A New / Used Horsebox.

when purchasing a new or used horsebox, a reasonable amount of due diligence should be observed.

I would always be inclined to HPI the vehicle to make sure that you are purchasing a vehicle with a clear title.

Free of any finance also clear of any large accident damage.

For the mechanical side of the cab chassis a simple PMI (pre ministry inspection) from a local commercial garage.

Should tell you what condition the vehicle is in this inspection and a sound test drive to throw up any inherent mechanical problems. Likewise, you can get mechanics that specialise on pre-purchase inspections.

I would always suggest to buy new or used from reputable brands/ names.

This should ensure good value for money and some sort of written warranty.

Buying privately owned horseboxes can be great purchases, however the words  “caveat emptor“ spring to mind.

If you purchase from a private individual and something goes wrong there is no redress.

Buying well-known brands such as Oakley, Whittaker, Equicruiser, Sovereign or PRB means that you will be buying a well-built body that will have a great residual value. (subject to you  looking after the horsebox)

I could ramble on…but this would be the bare bones of this part.

How to look after your horsebox
Having the vehicle serviced and ministry motd each year is a start.

Find a reputable engineer that will inspect repair/service and mot your vehicle try and use the same mechanic year on year as they will know the vehicle.

For the more horse box body side of it go to a well-known brand for a health check.

They will check the flooring/partitions general structure and check that the appliances are all working.

The vehicle is subject to their fit but can be winterised for the winter and de winterised in the spring.

Just general care of these vehicles and keeping them up together will protect your investment.

Horsebox licence and requirements
Don’t just assume you will have the correct licence find out via DVLA Swansea.

They have a website and if your patient you can call them and they will answer in English.

They have been really helpful in the past just explaining what you can and can't drive.

Most younger people, when they pass their car driving test, will qualify to be able to drive up to a 3.5tt vehicle. 

If they want to tow a trailer with a car there is now a test for that as well.

For the older generation that have passed their car test pre 1997/8, they will qualify for something called grandfathers rights to enable them to drive up to 7.5t's. These laws are evolving and changing so please check your eligibility to drive certain vehicles. This couldn’t be more important, as if you were involved in an accident and you weren’t entitled to drive said vehicle, your insurance would be void. You would face criminal charges.

Sound advice
my best tip would be to go and get some driver training to drive the vehicle that you are likely to buy.

This will set you up ready to drive you and your horse as safely as you can.