Once you have gained the HGV licence you need to transport horses if you don’t already have a suitable vehicle you may start looking into purchasing your own horsebox. We have provided you with some information on the vehicle requirements to make sure you have the knowledge needed to find the perfect vehicle to transport your horses safely and start enjoying your freedom.

Any vehicle used for horse transportation must be designed, maintained and operated correctly to avoid injury and suffering of the horses as their safety is the number one priority.

The truck must protect the animals from all types of weather, extreme temperatures and changes in climate as well as ensuring a good amount of air quality. There should be sufficient space in the compartment to ensure adequate ventilation above the animals when standing in their natural position.

It should be secure to prevent animals from escaping or falling out and provide partitions strong enough to withstand the weight of the horses and the stress of movement.

There should be easy access and sufficient lighting to allow inspection of the animals and ensure all fittings are designed for quick and easy operation. You must make sure the vehicle is constructed and maintained to minimise the leakage of urine and faeces and to allow appropriate cleaning and disinfection.

Ideally the vehicle will have anti slip flooring and carry suitable equipment for loading and unloading.

All vehicles used to transport horses must be clearly and visibly marked to indicate the presence of live animals and keepers must carry a horse passport for each animal transported, with some exceptions.

Once you have found the perfect horsebox to meet the requirements, Twinway LGV offer a service where we can come out to your premises at a date and time to suit and take a lesson in your own vehicle. This will enable you to get used your new truck, go out on the roads in your area do some real life reversing and manoevering so that you feel safe and confident to then drive out independently. We have many past equestrian pupils who have taken advantage of this service and are now on the roads daily enjoying their independence.

Happy Horsebox shopping!!!!!