Gooseneck Horse Trailers: Maximum Safety, Comfort & Capability

Gooseneck Horse Trailers: Important Considerations

The four main considerations when choosing a safe gooseneck horse trailer are as follows. 

1. Size and number of your horses: The most important factor to consider when shopping for a new gooseneck horse trailer is the size and number of horses you intend to haul in it. This should always be a decision based on a long-term strategy: for instance, if you have two horses now but are considering adding a third one, you should opt for a bigger trailer than a 2-horse gooseneck, as you’re likely to keep it for at least a decade, sometimes even way longer. Also, the size of your horses might require custom exterior and interior dimensions, alongside specific solutions and tweaks, meaning that a tailor-made trailer fabricated from scratch according to your needs is the only route to follow. This is why we build all of our trailers from the ground up based on our clients’ needs, requirements, and preferences.
2. Tow vehicle requirements: Goosenecks obviously require pickup trucks as tow vehicles. This means that you will either need to purchase one when you acquire a gooseneck horse trailer or confirm your existing truck is rated to tow it. Sometimes, you might need a gooseneck that your existing truck would never handle safely, so an upgrade would be inevitable. Given the fact that the average user replaces their pickup truck every 3-5 years, that shouldn’t be a problem. Still, this needs to be part of your budget considerations as a possible short-term expense. For more details related to towing safety and advice on how to pick the right truck, check out the free towing guides we’ve prepared to help you make the best choice. You can contact us for a consultation, too, but whatever you decide, make sure the truck you use to tow your gooseneck horse trailer is rated for it.
3. Safety and comfort: Finding a gooseneck horse trailer that offers unprecedented safety for you and your horses. This can be harder than it seems initially, but we can offer exactly what you’re looking for in terms of safety perks, perhaps even more. The whole Double D Trailers model lineup shares a unique combination of factors that make them stand out from the rest, and you must consider all of them when choosing your new gooseneck horse trailer:

• Innovative fabrication methods (such as the river-free bonding technology developed by 3M - VHB - that we use in our manufacturing process)
• State-of-the-art materials (like the Z Frame Technology we’ve developed - steel tubing with a zinc and chromate coating that results in lightweight, flexible, durable, and rust-resistant material for the chassis and stall dividers)
• Sturdy, ventilated, and insulated structure (we used pressure-treated lumber for the floor, large windows and roof vents for natural light and air inside the stalls, and insulation in the side and dress walls)
• Practical enhancements and exclusive features are what make the safest horse trailers stand out from the rest (our trailers, for example, boast numerous perks, all of which are patented or exclusive to Double D Trailers - the SafeTack swing-out tack compartment, the padded SafeKick walls, the leakproof SafeBump roof that doesn’t conduct heat, and more.

4. Practical and spacious living space: Do you want a horse trailer sleeping quarters? Spending hours or days at a horse show can be exhausting. One of the top advantages of a gooseneck trailer is the useful space that overhangs your truck bed. This ‘gooseneck’ space is the perfect place to take a power nap or spend the entire night to avoid the expense of a hotel. During camping trips, you can ditch the tent and stay close to your horses throughout the night. Of course, you can also opt for a full-fledged living area - and we’d be delighted to build one for you. Check our living quarters guide for more details and possible options. 

Why Choose Double D Trailers For Your Custom Gooseneck Horse Trailer?

Double D Trailers proudly offers the safest horse trailers on the market with decades of experience in horse trailer construction and unwavering commitment to achieving the ultimate safety and comfort levels. We continue to believe that these two factors should always be the top priorities when designing and building a horse trailer. In this section, you’ll find the many reasons why choosing a Double D Trailers model is the best option.

Uncompromising Safety: In our pursuit of unprecedented safety and comfort, we managed to come up with several patented safety features like 

• SafeTack®: This is the perfect solution for seamless loading/unloading without sacrificing tack space. The design of our fully enclosed, rear-mounted tack compartment allows it to swing out like a door and completely clear the rear entryway of the trailer so horses can go in and out without feeling intimidated by the typical narrow opening. If it takes hours for your horses to agree to board the trailer, then this is exactly what you need.
• Z-Frame® Technology: We use steel tubing coated with a blend of zinc and chromate that results in a material with unique qualities. It’s as lightweight as aluminum but it’s not brittle like it - quite the contrary - it’s flexible yet sturdy. Z-Frame is as strong as steel, too, but also not prone to rust. This is why it’s the best choice for fabricating the chassis and tubular dividers inside the trailer.
• SafeBump® Roof System: Our one-piece, fiber-composite molded roof boasts several advantages. It’s lightweight and, therefore lowers the trailer’s center of gravity. It also doesn’t conduct any heat, which reduces the temperatures inside. Being a one-piece structure, it’s also not prone to leaks, and it’s flexible composition absorbs the energy of an impact generated by horses’ heads and thus prevents light injuries. 
• SafeKick® Wall System: All of our trailers are equipped with a handmade, custom 2” padding meant to prevent bruises and other injuries in case a horse throws a random kick. This simple solution also helps dampen road noises and reduces vibrations.
• Rumber Flooring: The optional Rumber floors we offer combine the best factors - this solution uses recycled materials to create a durable, non-slip surface that provides plenty of grip and is resistant to contaminants and easy to clean. 

See the SafeTack in action below!

Our patented SafeTack Reverse design is perfect for horses who don't like to load. Remember, horses don't like to walk into a dark and confining space.  And, they REALLY don't like to back up to get off the trailer. Many of our customers appreciate the true walk-on-walk-off configuration of our SafeTack design.  It's helped horses across the country -- who used to take hours to load -- learn to load with ease. This video above is from our friend Penny. Her horses used to take "at least one full hour" to load.  Now, watch them load without fear -- in a matter of seconds!

Read more about Penny's story here.

Other features that set our gooseneck trailers apart from the competition: 

Fully Customizable Trailers: All Double D Trailers are made to order. We design and fabricate each unit based on the client’s specific needs and ideas. Thanks to the customizable dimensions and stall sizes, we can fit just about any horse inside the trailer you’ve been dreaming of. You can enjoy a tailor-made design from the ground up, including not only its size but also the complete layout, loading pattern, exterior and interior colors and finishes, safety and comfort features, specific equipment, and living area amenities. As a result of our extended list of customization options, you receive the best value money can buy and enjoy a one-off horse trailer that fits you and your horses with zero compromises, instead of having to adjust to a model bought off-the-lot that simply can’t cover all your specific demands.

Superior Towing Performance: Our gooseneck horse trailers come with the distinct V-Nose design as standard, which makes a big difference in maneuverability, especially when you’re using a short-bed pickup truck for towing. The V-shaped nose provides a greater turning radius and increases the gas mileage, too. At Double D Trailers, we also put a lot of effort into engineering our trailers for optimal balance and stability, which is why we carefully choose the axle placement and loading capabilities. Thanks to well-calculated wheel bases and proper weight distribution achieved through clever layouts, our trailers are easy and safe to tow, even when fully loaded. An additional perk we take pride in is the exceptional gooseneck clearance of all our models. This allows perfect clearance over the tailgate of your truck for an adequate towing level. No need to jack up the trailer anymore!

Quality & Durability: The quality of all Double D Trailers products is the result of a combination of factors. We use innovative solutions such as bonding panels instead of riveting them, which removes the risk of tears and cracks due to weakened material. We also use premium quality materials for the upright structure (e.g. Galvalite skin) and choose pressure treated pine for sturdy floors that would last indefinitely when maintained the right way. This is how we achieve enviable longevity because we know a horse trailer might and should last for 15, 20, or even 25 years.

Easy Loading and Unloading: Thanks to features such as the revolutionary SafeTack compartment that’s exclusive to Double D Trailers and options such as side doors and ramps, our gooseneck horse trailers allow for exceptionally easy loading and unloading that even the most stubborn horses would appreciate. The unobstructed access through the rear comes hand in hand with a bright, white-painted, well-ventilated, welcoming interior, a practical slant load configuration, possible forward or reverse-facing orientation (depending on the gooseneck model), and a “walk on, walk off” pattern that allows your horses to never have to back out of the trailer again.      

Expert Advice: Do you have questions about buying a horse trailer or choosing the best materials? Do you need help determining the hauling capacity of your tow vehicle and hitch? Just ask us! We’re glad to help. Our team of experts with decades of combined industry-specific experience will help you identify exactly what you need when you’re not sure about the layout, the size, or the additional perks.

Additional Perks: All Double D Trailers boast a myriad of miscellaneous seemingly small details and touches that make a big difference:

• Easy Window Latches: We’ve moved the latching mechanism on the trailer windows to a lower position so they can be more easily reached.
• Self-Watering Tank: Add a self-watering tank system to your trailer so your horses can stay hydrated throughout the trip.
• On-Board Cameras: Do you want to keep an eye on your horses during the trip? Add an onboard camera so you can watch them while you travel.
• No Rattle Interior: We’ve secured all loose components inside the trailer to cut down on noise and stress for the horses.
• Tail Lights: The trailer’s rear taillights have been moved to a higher position for maximum visibility for following traffic.
• Easy Lift Ramps: You won’t strain your back lifting our spring-assisted ramps.

Factory Direct Advantage: Purchasing a horse from a dealer’s lot is almost never the best approach to acquiring a new horse trailer. With us, you will work directly with designers and enjoy transparent pricing that eliminates any middlemen, thus resulting in exceptional value. Get more ‘bang for your buck’ with our custom-made horse trailers that feature exactly what you want, and therefore you avoid overpaying for equipment you don’t need. Plus, buying a horse trailer online is easy. It all starts with a free consultation from our experts.

Nationwide Shipping: Don’t worry if you don’t live close to our manufacturing facilities. We won’t make you drive cross country to pick up your finished trailer. Thanks to our Nationwide Flat Rate Delivery policy, you will receive your brand-new horse trailer directly at your most convenient location anywhere in the U.S for just $395. Plus, we can arrange for delivery if you live in Canada or Australia.

Customization Options

All of our trailers are fully customizable - front-to-back and top-to-bottom. Depending on the Double D Trailers gooseneck model you choose, you can opt for a dressing room or full-fledged living quarters.

If you’d like to indulge in high-quality rest and feel just like at home, then you can opt for living quarters fit for every preference. We can add hardwood cabinets, a bathroom, a cooktop, a full-size mattress, a shower, a dinette, and all the appliances and comforts you need so you never think about searching for a hotel or a restaurant while you’re on the road.

The sleeping quarters at the front of your gooseneck trailer will become a shaded retreat on those long and hot days at the show. Stock your area with cool beverages, a comfy mattress, and supplies to get you through your day.

As with the rest of your new trailer, this private dressing room is completely customizable. Many choose to add increased headroom over the gooseneck sleeping area. You can also add custom clothing hooks, storage compartments, or wall grid organizer panels to keep your equipment organized and clean.

If camping is your thing, you will love using the gooseneck area as a home away from home. You can leave the leaky tent at home and use the sleeping quarters for overnight trips. An interior access door back to the horse area will allow you to easily check on your horses.

Stay cool with an overhead powered roof vent that will create a pleasant breeze. Add an extendable awning to the side of your trailer to create a shaded area to enjoy the day.

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How to Get Started: Ordering Your Gooseneck Horse Trailer

All of our Gooseneck Horse Trailers come with a standard set of unique features. Our customers – and their horses – appreciate that we put so much emphasis on safety and comfort. You’ll be able to find the right model among the gooseneck horse trailers for sale on our website and safely and comfortably transport your horses and yourself. Here’s how to get started…

Step 1: Submit an Online Customization Request

Use the drop down menus at the top of this page to check out all of our gooseneck horse trailer models. Click ‘View and Customize’ on a particular model to learn more about its features.  Then click on ‘Customize Your Trailer’ to begin building your own personal design. It’s easy to select features on your wish list and few the estimated cost to stay within a budget. Submit the order with a few details about yourself and you’re on your way to a brand new trailer!

Step 2: Receive Your Custom Quote

Our design team will get back to you with a detailed pricing estimate to identify any potential problems with your submission.

Step 3: Collaborative Design Process

At this point, you will begin a detailed back-and-forth conversation with our experts to refine the design and establish final pricing. We can also discuss your truck’s towing capacity to make sure you can safely haul the trailer.

Step 4: Review Your Trailer Blueprint

Next, you will receive a detailed CAD drawing that will act as the blueprint for the trailer construction.

Step 5: Final Approval and Start of Construction

If everything looks good, you can give your final approval, and construction can begin. The trailer is now officially on order.

Step 6: Personalize Final Details

All of the final touches can be discussed after the trailer construction has started. This includes things like selecting final color choices and finishes that make your trailer one of a kind.

Step 7: Home Delivery and Final Approval 

One of the most exciting times for buyers is being connected with their delivery driver. They will drive your trailer right to your home for a flat rate delivery fee of $395. You get to give your final ‘thumbs up’ before the driver leaves.

Step 8: Ready for Adventure

Then it’s time to load up the horses and start having fun!

Why not see for yourself what sets our Gooseneck Horse Trailers apart? Watch our exclusive video tour below of the patented SafeTack Reverse Gooseneck model (3-horse configuration shown.)

Gallery

Gooseneck Horse Trailer Resources

Why Choose a Gooseneck Horse Trailer

2+1 Horse Trailer vs. 3-Horse Gooseneck Trailer

Gooseneck vs Bumper Pull Horse Trailer: Which is Better?

Horse Trailer Videos

Gooseneck Horse Trailer: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

Is a gooseneck horse trailer safer than a bumper pull?

Yes, in many cases, it is - especially if you want a living area for yourself and enough room for two or more horses. Bumper pull models with a 2H capacity or higher are too heavy when you add living quarters, and this often results in excessive tongue weight. This situation can lead to accidents. With goosenecks, about a fourth of the trailer’s weight is placed directly on a pickup truck’s rear axle, which is a prerequisite for a much safer towing experience. But at the end of the day, it all comes down to using a properly rated and fitting tow vehicle.

What are the disadvantages of a gooseneck trailer?

The main disadvantage of any gooseneck trailer is that it requires a pickup truck for towing. RVs and SUVs are not capable of towing a gooseneck. Also, in many cases, goosenecks are more expensive than bumper pulls with a similar capacity but they most often offer more value as well.

Do I need a CDL to pull a gooseneck horse trailer?

No, you don’t need a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) in most cases, as almost all gooseneck horse trailers’ GVWR is way below 26,000lbs, which is the threshold for obtaining a CDL.

Can a Ram 1500 (or similar half-ton truck) pull a gooseneck horse trailer?

Yes, you can, but it depends on the Ram model and drivetrain. If you choose the HEMI or the EcoDiesel versions, you can tow a gooseneck trailer with a combined weight of around 12,000 lbs.

Where can I find gooseneck horse trailers for sale (new & used)?

You can find gooseneck horse trailers for sale online. Start with the Double D Trailers inventory of horse trailers for sale on our website but you can also browse the internet for dealer platforms or visit a showroom to compare different models.

Do you offer specific sizes like small, 2-horse, or 3-horse goosenecks? What about living quarters?

Yes, we offer 2H and 3H gooseneck trailers based on your desired configuration and preferences. Double D Trailers' main advantage is that we can build any trailer spec you want, as long as it doesn't compromise safety - in such cases, we offer safer alternatives.

"Our Double D Safetack Reverse 3 Horse Gooseneck horse trailer, custom built to our specific needs, is the best horse trailer we've ever owned! We used it to haul 17+ hand warmbloods all over the country during our daughter's showing career. We ordered the trailer to be much wider and taller than normal. We added numerous convenience and safety features such as the hydraulic jack, Rumber flooring, side and rear ramps, and more. We also customized the stalls to be wider than normal. It comfortably hauled our huge warmbloods with room to spare. The entire trailer is made of materials and venting that keep horses so much cooler than traditional trailers. We have hauled close to 20 hours in very hot weather, with appropriate stopping of course, and our horses hardly broke a sweat. If you value quality and safety, Double D is the trailer to buy!" -

Susan H., Bentonville, AR

Design Your Dream Gooseneck Horse Trailer Today

Have you been looking for the perfect gooseneck horse trailer for too long? Look no further, as you’ve come to the right place. 

Thanks to our extended list of customization options, the variety of base models and layouts available, and the individual approach toward every new client, we create trailers that meet or exceed all expectations within a reasonable budget. 

The next one could be yours!

Send us an inquiry or book a call - this is a no-strings-attached way for us to determine what you need and suggest how we can turn it into a beautiful reality. Get in touch with us today to get started. 

Schedule a FREE video chat with our staff now