Comparing Horse Float Brands Available in Australia: Features, Weights, and Global Options
- Loz
- Sep 12
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 13
Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Horse Float
When it comes to transporting your horse safely and comfortably across Australia, choosing the right horse float is crucial. With a wide variety of brands and models available, each with its own distinct features, it can be tough to know where to start. In this blog post, we’ll compare some of the leading horse float brands available in Australia, highlighting key factors like weight, design (straight or angle load), standout features, and online review ratings. We’ll also point you in the direction of reputable companies that can import floats from overseas if you’re after something a bit different.
Popular Horse Float Brands Available in Australia
In alphabetical order, here is what is currently available in the market:
Brand | Float Weight (Approx.) | Straight vs Angle Load | Additional Features | Online Review Rating (out of 5) |
850–2,700kg | Straight | Anodised aluminium panels, insulated walls, customiseable options | 3.4 | |
1,060–1,360kg | Straight & Angle | Polyethylene body (UV-stable, rust-proof), hot-dip galvanised chassis and floor, anti-slip rubber matting, fully enclosed tack boxes, swing-out saddle racks, aerodynamic design | 4.6 | |
1,420–2,150kg | Straight & Angle | Australian made, custom fit-outs, camper options, luxury interiors | 4.9 | |
1,700–2,300kg | Angle | SafeTack design, custom layouts, imported from USA | 4.6 | |
1,300–1,800 kg | Straight & Angle | British design, living accommodation options, aerodynamic body, rear and side ramps | 3.5 | |
1,700–2,200kg | Straight & Angle | Australian made, heavy-duty build, full custom options | 4.4 | |
1,500–2,000kg | Angle | Fibreglass body, Euro styling, adjustable dividers | 4.3 | |
1,200–1,800kg | Straight & Angle | French design, fibreglass construction, quick unloading | 4.1 | |
920–1,450kg | Straight | Aluminium body, galvanised steel chassis, parabolic leaf spring suspension, front unloading ramp, sliding windows, internal height up to 2.3m, suitable for horses up to 17.2hh | 4.5 | |
1,100–4,500kg | Straight & Angle | Aluminium composite or fibreglass, drop-down windows with fly screens | 4.3 | |
1,600–2,100kg | Straight & Angle | Galvanised chassis, fully sealed floors, custom paint | 4.4 | |
1,450-1,650kg | Angle | Aluminium flooring, electric brakes, swing-out tack box, rug racks, water tanks, fully padded bays, LED lighting, roof vents, optional overnighter and camper fit-outs | 4.4 | |
1,600–2,200kg | Angle | Luxury fit-outs, living quarters, extra height | 4.5 | |
1,400–1,900kg | Straight | Classic European design, timber or aluminium floor | 4.2 | |
1,350–1,790kg | Angle | Aluminium flooring, roller rocker suspension, 4-wheel electric brakes, marine carpet roof lining, LED lights, camper options | 4.5 | |
800–3,500kg | Straight & Angle | Designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and practicality for both horses and owners | 4.1 |
Other brands might be available, but these are the current market leaders with a significant existing customer base.
Key Features to Consider
Budget: your budget will play a significant role in your horse float purchase. So be ready to align your expectations to reality of your budget.
Weight: Lighter floats are easier to tow but may have fewer features. Heavier floats generally offer more stability and comfort for your horse; however, you need to have a vehicle that can safely tow the full weight of the float plus horses + gear/feed/water (it can get extremely heavy very quickly).
Straight vs Angle Load: Angle load floats can be more comfortable for horses on long hauls and often allow for easier loading/unloading. Straight loads are classic and may be preferable for some horses and drivers.
Vehicle Towing Capacity: Make sure your vehicle can safely tow the fully loaded float you choose. Failing to do so could compromise the safety of the horses, your safety, and the safety of others on the road, or lead to an expensive upgrade of your towing vehicle to meet these requirements.
Additional Features: Look out for things like living quarters, adjustable dividers, luxury fit-outs, and safety innovations like anti-sway technology or sealed floors.
Online Reviews: Checking customer reviews can help you gauge quality and after-sales service. Most reputable brands score between 4 and 5 stars.
Post-purchase Sales & Support: Verify with the re-seller or manufacturer regarding their after-sales support and warranty. Consider how accessible assistance would be, given your location relative to the re-seller or manufacturer. It’s advisable to obtain this information in writing to safeguard against potential future issues.
Ask Friends/Local Community: Consider seeking advice or experiences from online horse forums in your area or from horse friends you know. Word-of-mouth recommendations can often provide significant reassurance for such a major purchase.
Ordering Horse Floats from Overseas
If you’re after something unique or wish to import a float from Europe or the USA, several Australian companies can facilitate this process. Some popular options include:
Double D Trailers – US-based, but they ship to Australia and offer custom options.
Fautras – French floats known for their innovative fibreglass builds; available via Australian importers.
EuroFloat – European-style floats designed for the Aussie market; check with local dealers for import requests.
Ifor Williams – UK-based floats with simple, light and safe design in mind (Aussie dealers include East Coast Trailers & Horse Floats and The Float Centre)
Always check with your local state regulations regarding compliance and registration for imported horse floats, as standards can differ. Additionally, importing may take considerable time to manufacture and deliver to you in Australia, so if time is crucial, make sure you find out when ordering.
Secondhand Floats
Pros of Secondhand Floats
Cost-Effective: Secondhand floats are generally much cheaper than new ones, making them accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
Environmentally Friendly: Purchasing second hand helps reduce waste and promotes recycling.
Unique Finds: You may discover vintage or rare models that are no longer in production.
Cons of Secondhand Floats
Wear and Tear: Used floats may have signs of damage or deterioration that can affect performance and safety.
Limited Warranty: Most secondhand items come without a warranty, which could lead to additional costs if repairs are needed.
Unknown History: It can be difficult to ascertain how the float was used or maintained by the previous owner.
Things to Check for Safety and Build
Structural Integrity: Inspect for cracks, dents, or any signs of damage that could compromise the float's safety - particularly the floor (and sub-flooring structures).
Material Quality: Ensure that the materials used are durable and suitable for the intended use, particularly in water conditions.
Attachment Points: Examine any straps, handles, or other attachment points for wear, ensuring they are secure and functional.
Manufacturer’s Guidelines: If possible, refer to the original manufacturer's guidelines for safety standards and maintenance recommendations.
Local Serviceability/Repairers: Do you have a local service shop that can tend to your chosen float or would you need to take it significant distances to be seen (you need to get your float serviced annually).
My Top Choices
So, what did I decide on after my research? I chose the Ifor Williams HBX511 (from East Coast Trailers). It's lightweight and boasts impressive features such as the walk-off front ramp and excellent suspension/ride quality for my horses. Also, these floats come with built in trackers (you have to register them online via the UK but it is an excellent security feature). Since most of my trips are local, I didn't require luxurious accommodations. The CrisFloat was a close second choice.
If I ever wanted to consider a float with accommodation, I would explore customising the EquiTrek, Boekmann or a CrisFloat (as I find they are lighter and safer for towing and horses' welfare overall.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a rugged Aussie-built float, a luxury model with all the trimmings, or a unique overseas design, there’s a solution for every horse owner. Always prioritise safety, comfort, and after-sales support when making your choice. For more detailed specs and the latest reviews, be sure to visit the manufacturer websites listed in the table above – and happy travelling!
If you could choose any float for your horse, what would it be and why? Would you opt for the rugged Aussie-built design for its durability, a luxurious model for the comfort it offers, or perhaps a unique overseas design that stands out? Share your thoughts!
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