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Side Load Horse Trailer: Gooseneck, Bumper Pulls, Living Quarters

Last updated December 20, 2024 by Brook Norris

A Side load Horse Trailer built by Double D Trailers enhances equine transport by addressing safety challenges and improving horse comfort. Our custom-built models feature a double-wide, low-incline side ramp to reduce strain and prevent slipping. Rear-facing stalls reduce travel fatigue, while a walk-through design eliminates the need for horses to back up during unloading. These innovations reduce stress and ensure safer, more efficient transport, setting a new standard for horse trailers.

SafeTack 3-Horse Gooseneck trailer featuring a side ramp and walk-through design, with reverse-facing stalls and enhanced loading convenience for horses.

We offer side load horse trailers in gooseneck and bumper pull configurations, as well as models with living quarters for added flexibility. With durable Z-Frame construction and innovative loading configurations, our side load horse trailers feature bright interiors with a white SafeBump roof made of leak-proof fiber composite material, large windows, and tubular head dividers for visibility and ventilation. The SafeTack compartment, a lockable storage area, swings out to keep entry and exit points clear, maintaining safety and convenience for both horse and handler. It also serves as a safety crumple zone to protect your horses in case of a rear-end collision. Additionally, the SafeTack compartment is fully enclosed, shielding your tack from dust and moisture, ensuring that your equipment remains in pristine condition.

 

Table of Contents

Side Load Gooseneck Horse Trailers

 

SafeTack 3 Horse Reverse Slant Side Load Gooseneck Trailer SafeTack 4 Horse Gooseneck Trailer With Double Side Ramp 2 Horse Straight Load Trailer With Side Ramp

SafeTack 3 Horse Reverse Slant
Side Load Gooseneck Trailer

SafeTack 4 Horse Gooseneck Trailer
With Double Side Ramp

2 Horse Straight Load Trailer
With Side Ramp

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Side Load Bumper Pull Horse Trailers

SafeTack 2 Horse Slant Bumper Pull Trailer SafeTack 3 Horse Slant Bumper Pull With Side Ramp 2 Horse Straight Load Bumper Pull With Side Ramp

SafeTack 2 Horse Slant
Bumper Pull Trailer

SafeTack 3 Horse Slant Bumper Pull
With Side Ramp

2 Horse Straight Load Bumper Pull
With Side Ramp

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Side Load Horse Trailers with Living Quarters

 

Weekender Small Horse Trailer With Living Quarters SafeTack Reverse 3 Horse Slant Trailer With Living Quarters

Weekender Small Horse Trailer
With Living Quarters

SafeTack Reverse 3 Horse Slant Trailer
With Living Quarters

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Side Load Horse Trailer: Unique Features From Double D Trailers 

1. Double-Wide Low-Incline Side Ramp

The double-wide low-incline side ramp improves safety and convenience. The ramp’s low hinges reduce the incline, minimizing strain on horses and preventing slips. Non-slip surfaces enhance footing, while dual-width ramps provide access to two stalls, simplifying loading. 

Additional side ramps allow direct access to middle and front stalls, avoiding unnecessary unloading. According to the article “Handling and Transport of Horses” by K.A. Houpt of Cornell University, gradual inclines are important for reducing horse stress during loading. 

Another advantage of a double-wide ramp is the open inviting space. Horses do not load well in small confined areas so having the double width makes loading much easier.  We have numerous client testimonials to attest to the fact.

Benefits of Double-Wide Low-Incline Side Ramp

FeatureBenefit
Low Hinge PlacementReduces ramp incline
Non-Slip SurfaceImproves footing
Dual Stall AccessSimplifies loading multiple horses
Additional Side Ramp• Allows direct access to middle stalls
• Makes loading effortless
• Inviting space for horses

 2. Full-Access Rear Doors and Front Escape Doors

Full-access rear doors streamline loading and unloading. Front escape doors provide emergency access, improving safety for handlers and horses. These features offer flexibility, ensuring quick and secure exits for both horse and handler.  

The side load horse trailer design by Double D Trailers has a number of exit points particularly for the handler in case a horse spooks and they need to get out of the way.

3. Spacious Walk-On-Walk-Off Interiors

Walk-on-walk-off interiors eliminate backtracking, reducing stress. Horses load onto rear-facing stalls through the side ramp, an arrangement shown to cut travel fatigue by 30%. Forward-facing stalls allow unloading through the side ramp without reversing, preventing injury and anxiety.

4. Durable Rust-Resistant Build Quality

Trailers built with Z-Frame technology and rust-resistant materials last longer while maintaining structural integrity. The entire structure of Double D Trailers is Z-Frame which is strong like steel, lightweight like aluminum, and doesn't rust. This construction quality provides the best of both worlds between steel and aluminum.

5. Patented and Exclusive Safety Features

Patented features like the SafeTack Reverse design and SafeKick wall system ensure superior safety. The SafeTack compartment eliminates protruding doors, while the SafeBump roof prevents injuries during transit.

Why Choose a Side Load Horse Trailer?

Side load trailers enhance safety, improve loading efficiency, and suit various horse sizes. 

An infographic displaying the benefits of side load horse trailers including improved loading efficiency with non-slip ramps, increased safety with multiple exit points, and spacious interiors for horses of all sizes.

How Does the Side Load Design Improve Loading Efficiency?

Side load trailers simplify loading with low-incline ramps and walk-on-walk-off layouts. These features reduce time and stress during transit, with studies showing a 30% efficiency gain.

What Makes Side Load Trailers Safer for Horses?

Safety features, including rear-facing stalls and padded interiors, lower travel-related injuries. Rear-facing stalls, validated by Dr. Barbara Padalino et al. in their study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, reduce stress by 30%.

Are Side Load Horse Trailers Suitable for Different Horse Sizes?

Adjustable partitions and spacious stalls accommodate all horse breeds, from ponies to drafts and warmbloods, ensuring comfort and safety.

Choosing Between Gooseneck and Bumper Pull Configurations

What is a Gooseneck Side Load Horse Trailer?

A gooseneck side load trailer is a horse trailer with a side door for loading and unloading horses and a gooseneck hitch attaching to a truck bed, offering greater stability and towing capacity. This configuration handles heavier loads over long distances.

How Do Bumper Pull Side Load Horse Trailers Differ From Goosenecks?

A bumper pull side load horse trailer connects to a vehicle's back hitch, which makes it more versatile since most tow vehicles have hitches. This configuration is ideal for transporting lighter loads since most bumper pulls are designed for up to three horses and the majority are a two horse while goosenecks can accommodate 4 or more horses.

Which Towing Configuration Is Best for Side Load Trailers?

Gooseneck trailers are best for heavy loads and long hauls, while bumper pull trailers work well for lighter weight trip needs. The choice depends on the number of horses and towing vehicle capacity.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Gooseneck vs. Bumper Pull Designs?

Gooseneck trailers provide stability and capacity but require larger vehicles. Bumper pull trailers are cost-effective and versatile. When towed behind an adequately equipped tow vehicle, a bumper pull horse trailer is just as safe as a gooseneck.

Side Load Horse Trailers With Living Quarters

Are Living Quarters Customizable in Side Load Trailers?

Living quarters can include kitchens, sleeping areas, and storage. Custom designs allow riders to enjoy comfort during long journeys while maintaining space for horses.

How to Find the Best Side Load Horse Trailer For You

• Bridge Functionality and Comfort

Side load trailers enhance horse safety and provide luxury for riders, balancing functionality and comfort.

• Consider Maintenance Requirements To Ensure Long-Term Use

Regular inspections of hinges, ramps, and flooring, along with proper cleaning, extend trailer lifespan and maintain performance.

• Customize for Safety and Specific Needs

Customization options like dual ramps, adjustable stalls, and advanced safety systems meet specific needs, ensuring optimal performance.

Side Load Horse Trailer Cost

Budget Considerations Before Purchasing

Consider initial costs, maintenance fees, and resale value. Investing in premium features increases upfront costs but ensures lasting value.

Warranty and Financing Options Available for Side Load Trailers

Manufacturers offer warranties and financing plans, making side load trailers accessible for buyers at various budget levels. At Double D Trailers, our warranty includes the following:

  • (8) Year on Structure
  • (2) Year bumper to bumper
  • (1) Year on non-Double D Manufactured parts

Side Load Trailers Cost Compared to Other Options

Side load trailers, though costlier than alternatives, justify their price with safety, efficiency, and customization.

Alternatives to Side Load Horse Trailers

Slant Load Trailer Versus Side Load

Slant load trailers are simpler and more affordable but may lack the spaciousness and safety of side load designs. The SafeTack reverse slant load horse trailer by Double D Trailers combines the advantages of slant load and side load configurations while addressing common dangers and pitfalls of other brands. 

Straight Load Horse Trailers Versus Side Load

Straight load trailers offer traditional forward-facing stalls but cannot match the stress-reducing walk-on-walk-off layout of side load models. For more comprehensive information on side load horse trailers, read our definitive Guide on Side Load Horse Trailers

Ready to start building your dream Side Load Horse Trailer?

 

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