What to Know When Purchasing a Livestock Trailer

Determine the Right Size

Size is one of the first factors you’ll need to consider when picking between trailers. The height, width, and length of your trailer will depend on the size of the livestock you are transporting, as well as the number of animals you plan to haul at any given time.

Additionally, you’ll need to consider the tow vehicle you will be using. Matching your livestock trailer to your towing capabilities is imperative to you and your livestock’s safety.

To determine which trailer size is right for your tow vehicle, consider the dry weight of the trailer combined with the estimated weight of the livestock you’ll be transporting. You’ll also want to give yourself a little extra leeway for the water, food, and equipment you’ll be bringing as well.

Smaller trailers typically make a better fit for SUVs, and tow vehicles with limited towing capabilities feature a bumper pull. These are simple to attach and are a good choice for moving livestock in small numbers.

Larger trailers are intended for hauling numerous animals at once or for transporting taller livestock and are usually equipped with a gooseneck hitch. Gooseneck connections offer more stability, but they do require that your tow vehicle has a gooseneck bed.

Look at Frame Options

Generally, most livestock trailers are designed with either an aluminum or steel frame. In some cases, a manufacturer might offer a combination frame style that implements both steel and aluminum.

Steel is a durable option but can be prone to rust. If you choose a steel frame, be sure to either buy a trailer that has already been painted to protect it against rust or plan to paint it after purchase. This is particularly important if you will be hauling livestock in areas where the roads are treated with salt or mag chloride.

Aluminum is a great lightweight, rust-resistant option for livestock frames. These are a bit more expensive, and over time, aluminum can be more prone to weakening than steel.

One of the best options is a livestock trailer that implements both materials, creating a robust and durable trailer.

Compare Flooring Choices

Most livestock trailers will feature either wood plank flooring or an aluminum floor. Additionally, rubber mats or other non-slip surfaces are often added to the flooring to ensure stable footing for animals during transport.

Wood flooring is often paired with steel frames, but keep in mind that if you choose a wood floor, you’ll need to inspect the wood frequently for deterioration. In wet climates, wood is particularly prone to rotting and may need to be treated.

Aluminum is more durable but is less comfortable for livestock as it doesn’t absorb the vibration from the road as well as wood. It can also create a hotter environment inside of the trailer. Wood flooring is cooler.

Choose the Right Wall Type

Livestock trailers feature either solid or slatted walls. Solid walls are a good choice in colder climates. This will help protect livestock from cold temperatures and inclement weather. Slatted walls are a good fit for hotter climates because the slats will allow for airflow. This is critical when transporting livestock in high humidity paired with hot temperatures.

For slatted walls, the trailer can either feature slats from the floor to the roof or a combination of a solid wall at the bottom of the trailer and slats closer to the roof.

Opt for a Step-Up or Ramp Entry

When choosing between livestock trailers, another important consideration is the point of entry. Livestock trailers can be equipped with a ramp for easier loading and unloading, or they can simply feature doors that open up, requiring livestock to step up into the trailer and down when exiting.

For livestock that can be difficult to load, a ramp is ideal. This is more comfortable for the animals and puts less stress on their joints. For livestock that are comfortable climbing in and out of trailers, a step-up entry may suffice.

Put Together a Rough Budget

Livestock trailers vary a lot in pricing. A simple, pull-behind bumper tow trailer designed for a small animal may only cost a few thousand dollars. A large, gooseneck livestock trailer equipped with living quarters and all the latest and greatest technology could cost significantly more.

Make sure to put together a rough budget before you head to the dealership. Keep in mind that many dealerships will offer financing options, which can allow you to purchase the right livestock trailer for your needs without worrying about those upfront costs.

Do Your Research

After you have outlined the type of trailer you need based on the components listed above, take some time to research your options. Look at inventory online and compare trailer specs. Make note of any questions that arise during your research and bring those questions to the sales staff.

Finally, schedule an in-person visit. You may want to take a trailer for a test drive, ensuring that it offers the stability and maneuverability you desire.

At Transwest, we are ready to work with you to find the right livestock trailer for your needs. We carry a quality inventory of trailers backed by leading manufacturers.

Come visit one of our locations to learn more or reach out anytime to discuss the right livestock trailer for your needs.