The following guide answers the popular question – What type of livestock trailer is best for me?
There are two main types of livestock trailers: Bumper Pull and Gooseneck. In this article we are going to discuss the differences, pros and cons, and help you decide which livestock trailer is best for your needs.
Bumper Pull Livestock Trailer
Bumper pull trailers are the most common style of a livestock trailer out on the market. They connect to the tow vehicle with a basic bumper hitch.
Pros
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Easy to hook up
- Easy to pull and maneuver
- Affordable
- Good gas mileage
- Can be pulled with a normal truck
Cons
- Limited interior space / typically smaller
- Not suitable for larger animals or more than a few animals
- Less stability while towing
- Ideal for shorter trips
Gooseneck Livestock Trailer
If you have multiple animals or larger animals to transport, a gooseneck trailer may be a better option.
Pros
- Come in various sizes, up to 36 feet in length
- More stability on the road
- Smoother ride for your animals
- Ideal for long distance transport
- Safer and more secure
Cons
- Need a truck with a truck bed hitch
- More costly
- Decreased fuel efficiency
Which option is best for you?
The size and quantity of your livestock and the distance of travel are the two most important factors in your decision to purchase a bumper pull or gooseneck livestock trailer.
If you only need to transport smaller animals such as sheep, goats, pigs, small horses or ponies across town, a bumper pull trailer is the best option for you.
If you need to haul multiple horses or cattle longer distances without having to take multiple trips, the gooseneck trailer is the best option for you.