A question of transport

Can't decide whether a 3.5t will suffice or you need something bigger? It helps to consider the long term.

- Bethany Stone consults those in the know

WHAT'S your dream car?” It’s a question we’ve all mulled over. For the average person, it’s likely something sleek and sporty. For the equestrian? It’s probably stalled for four and has a swish and spacious living.

Most riders investing in a transport solution must balance their vision with a number of practical considerations, not least of which is budget. But what about a more long-term view? What maintenance and running costs are there to consider? What does the resale market look like? What happens when your Pony Club kids become teens and your multi-equine cargo suddenly exceeds 14.2hh?

LARGER vehicles frequently give the impression of lots of weight to play with – 3.5t sounds sufficient, 7.5t like boundless capacity.

But Jordan Whittaker of Whittaker Coach Builders advises thinking about the amenities – and lifestyle – that different weights will afford you.

“If you compete several horses and need a living area, I wouldn’t advise a 7.5t,” she says, as despite being stalled for three or four, you might struggle to accommodate more than two plus all the necessary kit within the payload.

“We could build you something without a living, but otherwise, I would recommend a 10t minimum.”

Similarly, parents of junior riders may find that a 3.5t doesn’t fit the bill for long.

“They have no problem with two ponies, but as soon as it’s horses, you’re down to one,” Jordan adds.

Worried about parking space? A 10t or 12t box doesn’t have to take up extra room.

“It’s the same truck, same height and length, but we build it on a different chassis,” explains Jordan. “All that happens is an increase in your weight capacity.”

When it comes to manoeuvrability, she adds: “We have clients who have issues with gate width and turning circles, so we have to match the wheelbase to the angle of that turn. I’ve done an 18t on the same chassis length as a 12t in the past.”