Livestock Trailer Basics: A Guide to Livestock Trailer Types

Check out the most common types of livestock trailers to find the right one for your needs.

Livestock Gooseneck Trailer

One of the most popular styles of livestock trailers is a livestock gooseneck trailer. These trailers are an ideal choice for those who plan to transport large herds of livestock.

Gooseneck livestock trailers are designed with a long arm or neck that fastens to a ball hitch located in the bed of the towing truck. What makes this system superior for towing large amounts of weight is the added stability that the connection brings. The gooseneck trailer’s weight is also balanced over the rear axles instead of the frame, which creates a safer and more stable ride for your livestock.

The gooseneck style will also help cut down on sway on the road and make the trailer easier to maneuver. This trailer type offers improved stability in high winds and unfavorable weather conditions.

Gooseneck livestock trailers can be designed to haul almost any type of livestock. Additionally, they are designed in numerous sizes and with or without living quarters.

Gooseneck livestock trailers are often used to transport large herds of sheep, cattle, goats, llamas, and any large livestock.

Livestock Bumper Pull Trailer

Another popular style of livestock trailers is the livestock bumper pull. A livestock bumper pull can be quickly and easily attached to a standard ball hitch. This makes it a great choice for those who own a pickup truck or SUV that features this standard hitch style. No extra equipment is needed and hitching and unhitching are extremely simple and efficient.

Additionally, livestock bumper pull trailers are a lightweight option, which can be towed by many personal trucks or vehicles.

Bumper pull livestock trailers come in a variety of styles, makes, and models, making these a versatile pick. In most cases, a bumper pull livestock trailer is ideal for shorter distance drives and lighter livestock loads.

Often, these trailers are good for transporting show animals to an event, such as sheep, goats, or other small animals.

Livestock Trailers with Living Quarters

One popular choice for those who spend a lot of time on the road transporting livestock is the option of a livestock trailer with living quarters.

These trailers are designed with an area for your livestock and an area for your living space. The living quarters in a livestock trailer can vary based on the size of the trailer. Most livestock trailers with living quarters include the following amenities:

• A dedicated bedroom, often featuring a queen size bed
• Wardrobes, closets, cabinets, and overhead storage
• A living space with a couch, often doubling as a convertible sofa bed
• A dinette
• A kitchenette, usually equipped with a stovetop, sink, and fridge
• A bathroom with a toilet, shower, and sink

Opting for a livestock trailer with living quarters can make traveling to stock shows and other events a more comfortable and affordable experience. Rather than booking hotels during peak seasons, you can enjoy the luxury of a home away from home and camp on-site at events.

Stock Box

In some cases, towing an entire trailer is more than you need. In this case, a convenient solution can be a high-quality stock box.

A stock box is designed to haul smaller animals, such as a flock of chickens, a few hogs, lambs, or goats. These boxes simply rest in the bed of your truck, which makes them a convenient choice that is easy to set up and extremely efficient for transportation.

In addition to the ease of use, stock boxes can help you save money on fuel because you don’t need to tow an entire trailer for smaller livestock. They also make it easy to make short trips without any hassle.

Stock boxes are usually made from aluminum or steel and many models are equipped with insulated roofs, side slats, roof vents, and loading lights. These boxes are designed to be extremely durable and hold up against the elements.

In addition to their simplicity in use and ability to quickly adapt a truck bed into a livestock storage space, these boxes are also easy to maintain. They make a great choice for cutting down on maintenance costs and allow you to utilize your livestock trailer only as needed.

Pen System

Another common type of livestock trailer is a pen system. Pen systems are designed to ensure the safety and comfort of your livestock during transport.

Pen system trailers are often used to transport sheep, pigs, goats, and other animals that need to be penned in place during transportation. Most of these livestock trailers come equipped with side and rear ramps for easy loading and unloading. Additionally, many pen systems feature roof vents and insulation to ensure the trailer’s temperature remains safe and comfortable during transport.

Additionally, pen system trailers can be designed with or without living quarters, and they can be designed as either a bumper pull or gooseneck towing system. These trailers are manufactured by trusted brands, such as Cimarron, Featherlite, Logan Coach, Sundowner, and more.

Find Your Next Livestock Trailer at Transwest

If you are looking for a new or used livestock trailer, come visit our team at Transwest. We carry a quality selection of livestock trailers with something to meet any need. Whether you need a large gooseneck trailer capable of hauling cattle across the country or a small bumper pull designed to transport a couple of sheep, we can assist you in choosing the right trailer for your needs.

In addition to our premium inventory of livestock trailers, we also offer financing, maintenance services, and parts. We are your one-stop-shop for all your livestock trailer needs. Swing by one of our locations today to learn more.