Transporting horses can be quite an adventure, especially in a country as vast and varied as Australia. Heading to a weekend show? Moving to a new farm? Or simply taking your steeds out for a day in the bush? The right horse trailer can help you.
Horse trailers come in all shapes and sizes, but today we’re focusing on one particular type that has garnered quite a following: the gooseneck horse trailer.
What is a Gooseneck Horse Trailer?
You’re at a bustling horse event, and you see a sleek, well-balanced trailer hitched up to a large ute or truck. That’s likely a gooseneck horse trailer. Unlike bumper pull trailers that attach to the rear of the towing vehicle, these trailers connect via a hitch in the bed of the truck. The setup gives them a unique advantage in terms of stability and weight distribution.
The “gooseneck” part of the name comes from the trailer’s neck, which extends over the bed of the truck, forming a sort of inverted ‘L’ shape. The design not only improves balance but also provides additional space inside the trailer—perfect for housing tack, feed, or even a small living area.
In Australia, where long distances and rugged terrain are part and parcel of horse travel, gooseneck trailers have become increasingly popular. They offer a level of stability and comfort that many horse owners swear by.
Pros of Gooseneck Horse Trailers
Stability and Safety
The design of gooseneck trailers provides a notable edge for stability and safety. Because they connect to the bed of the towing vehicle rather than the bumper, the weight is more evenly distributed over the truck’s axle. Less swaying and more peace of mind.
Increased Space
Thanks to the extended neck and larger body, you get a whole lot more room to work with. This isn’t just about fitting in more horses—it’s about creating a mobile home-away-from-home.
Need a place to stash all your tack and feed? No problem. Want a cosy sleeping quarter for those overnight trips? Done. Many gooseneck trailers come with built-in living spaces that can be as simple or as luxurious as you like. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time traveller, this extra space can make all the difference.
Easier Towing and Maneuverability
Let’s talk towing. If you’ve ever tried reversing a bumper pull trailer, you know it can be a bit like trying to herd cats—frustrating and unpredictable.
Gooseneck trailers, on the other hand, are much easier to manage. The hitch design provides better control and tighter turning capabilities, making it a breeze to navigate tight spots or tricky terrain.
Compared to their bumper pull counterparts, these trailers handle like a dream. Imagine pulling into a packed event ground, deftly manoeuvring into a snug parking spot while your mates watch in envy.
With a gooseneck trailer, you can be the hero of the horse float scene, effortlessly showing off your top-notch trailer skills.
Cons of Gooseneck Horse Trailers
Pricing
Let’s get straight to the point: gooseneck trailers can be pricey. The initial purchase price is often higher than that of bumper pull trailers, and that’s just the beginning. Maintenance costs can also add up, particularly if you’re investing in one with all the bells and whistles like living quarters or extra storage.
That said, it’s worth considering whether these costs are justified by the benefits. For many Australian horse owners, the answer is a resounding yes. The added stability, space, and ease of towing can make a significant difference, especially on long journeys across our expansive landscape.
Still, it’s essential to weigh your budget against your needs, ensuring you’re making an investment that makes sense for you and your equine companions.
Towing Vehicle Requirements
Another factor to think about is the towing vehicle. Not just any ute will do; you’ll need a compatible truck or utility vehicle with enough power to handle the load. This often means upgrading from your standard vehicle, which can be another hefty expense.
If you’re not already driving a suitable truck, you’ll need to factor this into your budget. Upgrading can be costly, but it’s crucial for safe and efficient towing. For those already equipped with a capable vehicle, this may not be as much of an issue. However, for others, it could be a dealbreaker.
Size and Storage
Gooseneck trailers are big units, and with that size comes a few challenges. Parking and storing these trailers can be tricky, especially if you don’t have ample space at your property. They require more room to maneuver and park, which isn’t always available in suburban areas or smaller rural properties.
But don’t worry, there are ways to manage these challenges. Many Australian horse owners find creative solutions, such as renting space at local farms or storage facilities. Some even build custom shelters or parking areas on their property to accommodate the larger trailer. It might take a bit of planning and ingenuity, but where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Best Gooseneck Horse Trailer Models
When it comes to picking the best gooseneck horse trailer, there are several top-notch models available in Australia that stand out. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best options out there.
Imperial Floats 3 HAL Gooseneck
The “3 HAL Gooseneck” has made a triumphant return, and it’s better than ever. Imperial’s new gooseneck range marks a significant leap in quality and value, maintaining the brand’s reputation as Australia’s favourite. Loaded with features and exuding timeless elegance, this trailer is ideal for those seeking both luxury and practicality on the road.
Key Features:
- Sleeping Comfort:
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- Oversized double bed spacious enough for two full-sized adults, possibly three
- Dining table that easily converts into an additional bed
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- Bathroom Amenities:
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- Full-sized adult shower
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- Kitchen Facilities:
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- Kitchen equipped with hot and cold water
- Induction cooktop, fridge, and microwave
- 70-litre water tank (upgradeable to 140 litres)
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- Climate Control:
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- Reverse cycle air conditioning (hot and cold)
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- Entertainment:
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- TV and DVD combo mounted on a swing arm for flexible viewing angles, including outside
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- Outdoor Convenience:
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- Massive 3.5m awning
- Two external, fully lockable side tack boxes
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- Electrical Features:
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- Full 240V power package
- 5V and 12V USB charging ports for all your devices
- LED lights throughout the trailer
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- Horse Area:
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- Generous rear areas with oversized and fully adjustable bays suitable for the largest horses
- Full-colour wireless camera installed in the horse area for constant monitoring
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- Storage Solutions:
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- Large tack room with built-in shelving and saddle racks
- Full-length rug rack with twin spring locks
- Massive fully lockable swing-out tack box with top cage, accessible even when the float is locked up
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- Suspension and Wheels:
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- Double roller rocker suspension
- One-piece load-rated billet sports alloy wheels for a smooth and stable ride
Kara Kar Horse Floats Goosenecks 8′ Wide
The Kara Kar 8’ Gooseneck range stands out as the ultimate choice in horse floats, offering unparalleled space and customizability. The extra width of these trailers ensures a comfortable and spacious environment for both horses and humans, making them a perfect choice for extended trips across Australia.
Key Features:
4 Horse Longreach
- Spacious Interior: Designed to comfortably accommodate four horses with ample room.
- Customization: Highly customizable to provide all necessary amenities for you and your horses.
- Creature Comforts: Includes practical and luxurious features for extended trips.
- Towability: Suitable for towing with most late models 4×4 utes.
4 Horse Explorer
- Spacious Interior: The 8′ wide frame ensures a roomy environment for four horses.
- Customization: Extensively customizable to meet the highest standards of horse transport.
- Creature Comforts: Offers every possible amenity for comfortable and safe travel.
- Air Brakes: Air brake operated trailer for enhanced safety.
- Hydraulic Features: Includes a hydraulic tailgate and jack stands for ease of use.
Shadow Pro Series Gooseneck Trailers
The Shadow Pro Series Gooseneck Trailers are meticulously crafted to meet the highest quality standards. Built with pride and integrity by skilled craftsmen, these trailers are designed to cater to even the most demanding horse owners. The “Pro Series” boasts all-aluminium construction and an impressive array of standard features that are both practical and functional.
Whether you need a slant load or straight load trailer, a stock combo, or a living quarter, the Pro Series has you covered. Popular 3 and 4 horse models are available, along with larger options and several affordable colour choices. Depending on your trailering needs, the Pro Series models come in widths of 6ft. 9in., 7ft. 6in., and 8ft.
Built to last, the lightweight, all-aluminium Shadow Pro Series trailers offer solid, recognizable value. Innovative features include LED lighting, one key one lock system, large drop-down windows, sliding mid-tack, and a super-sized, collapsible rear tack.
Key Features:
- Coupler: 3″ ADR Approved Coupler
- Jack: Standard Single Speed (Two Speed select models)
- Axles: Two (2) Leaf Spring Axles with Centre Torsion Suspension & Electric Brakes
- Dress Room:
- Slant Loads: 30″ Short Wall, Saddle Rack, Mount Provision, Bridle Hooks
- Dome Light, Porch Light, 19″ x 53″ Slider Windows
- Horse Area:
- Slant Loads: Rubber Mats on Walls, Drop Down Feed Windows with Integrated Bars
- Dome Light(s), 2 Head Ties Per Stall, Vents
- 19″ x 53″ Slider Windows on Curb Side
- Floor: Interlocking aluminium with Rubber Mats
- Electrical:
- Exterior LED Lights: Stop, Turn, & Running, Tag Light
- 14 ga Wiring in Junction Boxes
- Safety:
- Self Charging Break-Away Switch and Safety Chains
- Rear Tack:
- On Slant Loads: Folding Rear Tack Wall, Swing-Out Saddle Rack Mounts, Bridle Hooks
- Escape Door: 38″ Wide, 24″ x 32″ Drop Feed Windows with Integrated Guards
- Rear Door: 50-50 with Window in Load Door, Rear Load Light, Full Width Bumper
Ironhorse Goosenecks
The Ironhorse Deluxe Goosenecks are a popular choice among Australian horse owners, offering a range of sizes from 19′ to 28′. These trailers come equipped with all the necessary accessories to ensure your stay away from home is as comfortable as possible for both you and your horses.
Key Features:
- Separate Living Area:
- Internal shower room (with space for a portable toilet)
- Power and Electrical:
- 240V/12V power with a double power point on the bench
- Electric cycle battery with DC charger
- Reversing and horse camera
- Comfort and Convenience:
- Full-length awning
- Wall-mounted TV with antenna (note that standard antenna may struggle for reception in remote areas)
- Reverse cycle air conditioning (heat/cool) with a ‘Dometic’ 3-year warranty
- 100L 240V fridge (upgrade to 12V/240V fridge available for an additional $2k)
- 20L microwave
- Stainless steel caravan sink with folding tap and glass cover
- Caravan door with security screen
- Horse Area:
- Drop-down windows in horse bays
- Lined roof with large vents
- Padded dividers with swinging stallion dividers (bays 700 x 2450)
- Swing-out 3-saddle tack box (standard size not suitable for larger Western saddles)
- Enclosed rug rack
- Water System:
- Underfloor poly water tank (95L) with external tap
- Lighting:
- 12V lights inside and out
- Suspension and Axles:
- Solid overlay 50 x 50 axles
- Fully greaseable load-sharing roller rocker suspension
- Recessed tie-ups
- Construction:
- Aluminium flooring over a galvanised chassis (SHS crossmembers 40 x 40 every 400mm)
- Rubber-lined floor and kick panels
- Gas strut tailgate
- Tyres:
- New light truck tyres with a spare
Conclusion
So, is a gooseneck horse trailer a good investment for an Australian horse owner? Absolutely. Take the time to evaluate your specific needs. Think about the number of horses you’ll be transporting, the types of trips you’ll be taking, and any special features that might make your life easier. With the information we’ve covered, you’re well on your way to making an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a gooseneck horse trailer?
A gooseneck horse trailer is a type of trailer that attaches to the bed of a truck via a hitch, providing more stability and weight distribution than traditional bumper-pull trailers. It’s ideal for transporting multiple horses and often includes living quarters.
Why should I choose a gooseneck trailer over a bumper-pull trailer?
Gooseneck trailers offer greater stability, and better weight distribution, and typically have more space, both for your horses and additional amenities like living quarters.
Can I customise my gooseneck horse trailer?
Yes, many manufacturers offer extensive customisation options. You can tailor your trailer to include features like larger living quarters, upgraded power systems, and specific configurations for your horses’ comfort.
How do I maintain my gooseneck horse trailer?
Regular maintenance includes checking the tyres, brakes, and suspension systems, as well as ensuring the hitch and coupler are in good condition. Cleaning the interior and exterior, especially the aluminium parts, will help prevent wear and tear.
How do I choose the right size gooseneck trailer?
Consider the number of horses you need to transport and the amount of space required for any additional gear or living amenities. It’s also important to factor in your vehicle’s towing capacity and any specific features you desire.
