Most people would agree that there are numerous advantages to owning a horse float.
They offer a certain degree of freedom, allowing the owner to load their equine up and take them to competitions, the vets or simply to a different location for a ride, whenever they want.
There is no doubt that having a horse float or trailer parked within easy reach is infinitely more convenient than having to hire or borrow one off a friend.
Purchasing a horse float for sale can be a very exciting time.
However, with all the options available nowadays, the horse transport market can be a difficult one to traverse.
A few simple points should be kept in mind to make the purchasing process easy, enjoyable and ultimately successful.
The first thing to think about is the kind of float that is required.
If one small pony is the only animal that will be travelling, a double or even a single float will suffice.
However, if the equine family is slightly larger, the owner might want to go for a triple angle loader, which will carry up to three horses, with plenty of extra room for gear and equipment.
Do remember, if buying a large float, that there is a restriction in New Zealand on how much weight can be towed on a Full Drivers License.
If the car, horses and float exceeds the 4.
5 tonne limit (gross weight), the driver will need to upgrade to a Class 2 License.
After the basic style of float has been decided on, the smaller details can be examined.
For example, is a float with electric brakes required or can the owner manage one without brakes? Brakes are generally recommended.
Without brakes, the float will push against the tow vehicle every time its stops, and if there is a sway, the horse float can jack knife because there is nothing to control it.
However, floats with brakes cost more and some people do feel that they can do without them, especially if they are only towing small, light horses or ponies.
Other optional extras can include water tanks, tack boxes, awnings, hay racks and even a full blown kitchen and shower.
The more accessories a horse float for sale has, the more expensive it will be, so the number of additions will depend on the depth of the budget.
Once all the research and deliberating has been done, it is time to start shopping.
If the budget is limitless, head to a professional float building company or distributor.
They will have a wide variety of brand new floats on offer, with all the latest mod cons.
Many of these businesses will also be able to custom-make floats, ensuring the purchaser ends up with a product that provides everything that they need.
The size, colour, and number of additional accessories will all be tailored to the owner and their horse or pony.
If the budget won't stretch to a new horse float for sale, decent quality second hand versions can usually be found for a reasonable price.
Online auctions and magazine classifieds are both good places to start the search.
It is also worth bearing in mind that float hire companies sometimes sell off second hand stock for discounted prices.
If buying second hand, it is worth taking someone that is knowledgeable with vehicles along to view the float.
They will be able to check for things such as wood rot or metal fatigue in the floor and ramp, damaged suspension and faulty electrics.
Also, ask them to look at the condition of the metal chassis and to examine the roof for leaks.
If the above points are taken into account, the horse owner will soon find the perfect float for them and their equine friends.
There are plenty of horse floats for sale out there, of all shapes, sizes and price.
It's simply a case of understanding what to look for and then heading out and finding it.
The reward is the freedom of being able to travel with their horse, whenever and wherever they want.