For many equestriennes, shopping for a new horse truck, sometimes referred to as a horse box, is the realisation of a lifelong dream. Getting ready to look for that dream vehicle is a time of great excitement, although usually tinged with a slight edge of trepidation, especially for the first time buyer. Purchasing even a small horse truck can require a significant financial investment so it is important that the right vehicle is chosen based on each individual’s own wants and needs.

There are two options when looking for a horse truck, buying new or buying secondhand. Purchasing a brand new horse truck has a number of benefits. Firstly, there are usually warrantees and guarantees associated with the purchase, as the seller will tend to be a registered horse truck business. If anything turns out to be faulty with the truck after getting it home, the company is normally obliged to replace it or fix the problem. If the truck is being commissioned to be built from scratch, there is often the opportunity to add extra features. That way the horse truck will be fully personalised, designed specifically for the purchaser and will provide everything the owner may want from it. There is no doubt that there are fewer risks when buying a new horse truck but do remember that the cost will be substantially higher than a used truck. Another thing to bear in mind is that many horse truck companies will offer used, ex lease or display vehicles, along with the new trucks that they have for sale. It is often possible to pick up a nice truck for a fraction of the price of a new one this way, with the peace of mind that can be gained from shopping with a reputable horse truck business.

Buyer beware is a sensible way to approach the purchase of a secondhand horse truck, if bought privately. The risks and pitfalls are far greater and there is not much protection at all for customers. If the buyer doesn’t have much experience with horse trucks or other vehicles, they should try to take a knowledgeable person along with them to viewings. Once a horse truck has been decided on, get it checked over by an organisation such as AA, who will give it the full once over and highlight any possible areas for concern. If it is not possible to take anyone along, take a long look at the brakes, lights, bodywork and wheels in particular. Keep an eye out for rust and any obvious holes and cracks. It is also very important that the floor is in good condition as horses can easily fall through a rotten wooden floor, with disastrous consequences.

Actually financing the horse truck can be quite a hurdle for many people. If buying new, most horse truck builders will be able to arrange finance for purchasers. Finance can also sometimes be organised through a bank or similar institution if buying a used horse truck. It is always a good idea to save up a portion of the cost as a deposit though and make sure the monthly or weekly payments won’t be too much of a strain. There is no point splashing out on a lovely new horse truck if there’s no money left over to enjoy it!

Owning a horse truck can bring a degree of freedom that has never been experienced before. Many horses prefer to travel in a truck and if there is adequate living inside, it can be comfortable place to stay in overnight at equestrian competitions. Following the few aforementioned guidelines will give the horse owner a greater chance of ending up with a reliable, well running horse truck that will provide them with hours of enjoyment for years to come.