Buying a livestock trailer: what to look out for
Anyone looking to buy a livestock trailer quickly runs into a wide range of sizes, body styles and equipment options. Unlike a general-purpose trailer, it's not just about payload and deck space – it's above all about the safety and welfare of your animals during transport. This guide covers exactly what to check for cattle, calf and horse trailers.
Choosing the right size and payload
The most common mistake when buying a livestock trailer is undersizing the payload. Plan not just for your current herd but also for future growth or the occasional larger animal. A compact trailer like the VT 2700 suits occasional transport of single cattle or calves, while tandem-axle models like the VT 3500 or VT 4500 Maxi are built for regular, professional use with several animals. Always check the gross vehicle weight and the actual payload – both are listed in detail on every product page.
Flooring and slip resistance
A non-slip floor isn't a comfort feature, it's a safety feature: animals that lose their footing during transport can injure themselves or panic. Look for a textured rubber or chequer-plate floor that stays grippy even when wet or soiled, and that's easy to clean.
Ventilation and animal welfare
On longer journeys or in summer, good airflow is essential. Side vents, roof hatches and – on horse trailers – a panorama front hatch provide fresh air without direct draughts on the animals. Models like the PA 2000 horse trailer combine several roof vents with a bright interior, which also makes loading nervous animals easier.
Partitions and loading aids
Removable or adjustable partitions give you flexibility: a trailer can be adapted to different animal sizes and group compositions. A low, non-slip loading ramp significantly reduces stress when loading – a detail that makes a real difference with horses and young animals.
Registration and brakes
For professional or frequent animal transport, a braked axle and, depending on your tow vehicle, a 100 km/h approval are worthwhile. This shortens braking distance and reduces travel time on longer routes. See our separate guide for the exact requirements of the 100 km/h approval.
Conclusion
A good livestock trailer is an investment in your animals' safety and in your own time. Payload, flooring, ventilation and partitions are the four criteria that make the biggest difference. Our livestock trailer range spans compact entry-level models to professional tandem-axle trailers, with full technical specifications on every vehicle.