Horseboxes & trailers

[Tink_87]

How much do you pay to keep them 'on the road'? Tax, Mot etc?

I'm looking into buying my own transport instead of always hiring off the YO, and am swaying towards a horsebox - mainly due to the fact one of my mares load & travel better in box rather than a trailer.

With trailers theres insurance and maintenance costs - is there anything else cost wise?

Any help would be appreciated!

 

[Caz89]

Just double check you can tow on your licence.... I have a 3.5T lorry because that's all I can drive without another test... tbh i would rather a trailer though

 

[Shazzababs]

Not sure when you took your test but don't forget you may need to take an extra licence to tow a trailer, or drive a box bigger than 3.5 tonne. You are unlikely to find a 3.5 tonne box to take 2 (leagally - however they are advertised) unless you have ponies.

Also with both types
- Insurance
- servicing + for a lorry MOT/Plate preparation.
- Recovery (Mine for a 7.5 ton was £126 a year)
- fuel costs
- Parking - Does your yard allow this\charge extra.
- With a trailer running an expensive 4x4 all the time, or the cost of the second vehicle

I budget £1000 a year for lorry repair, service and plating. Some years its more, but most about £500-600, but I find putting away £100 most months means there is enough to cover the bill when there is a problem. A smaller or newer lorry would be cheaper though.

I would also get yourself a mechanic lined up before you need them. There is nothing worse than breaking down and then having to worry about where to get towed to for fixing, and having to pay to have your box moved from your yard to a workshop at a later date.

There are some really good posts on here about the merits of the various options, and also recovery companies, and essential kit to carry in a lorry.