help please buying a horse box, what to do

[soulfull]

I have always had a 7.5t one, but only have one horse. Only go to local shows 3/4 times a month and maybe the odd training day

I am now looking again and just can't decide whether the smaller ones are worth the extra initial money?? Am I going to save this amount to warrant the difference in purchase price ??

seen a two in the last few days

R reg 6.5t £5000
or
R reg 3.5t £9000

then there are the van types

54 plate £9k

I am getting so confused, its supposed to be a happy thing to shop for

 

[lachlanandmarcus]

I think it would be worth the extra

o it will hold its value much better as more and more people in the horse world no longer have 7.5T on their licence as time goes on
o it is easier and cheaper to get MOTd as it can go to a normal garage and parts are easier and cheaper to get
o you will use less fuel
o some venues eg for endurance cant allow big lorries

It does go against the grain to pay more for less as you are sort of doing when downshifting from 7.5T to 3.5T but I would do it if you think its the best thing.

 

[soulfull]

thanks will keep looking then

 

[Abacus]

I loved my little 3.5 tonne, it was easier and cheaper in every way - parking, diesel, MOT and repairs, and just easier to drive. It was the van type and was absolutely fine for my 16.2 ISH, unfortunately now I have a 17hh who just is a bit long for it, so I'm back with a 7.5 tonne.

You should get a decent one for £9k if that is your budget; I sold mine for about £6k in perfect order, with ramps and floor tested etc, and it ws an 03 plate.

 

[Abacus]

PS meant to say, if you can, borrow one to make sure your horse loads and travels ok first. My old horse took a few times loading to get the idea of going in sideways and turning, but once he got the idea, travelled better than in anything else. But i do know of horses that just don't like them.

 

[amandaco2]

I'd just be careful with inspecting them....there are s few 3.5t that are botched jobs out there.
Also the van types tend to be quite low and suited to ponies or small horses, so bear that in mind too.