Finding a horse trailer that feels safe is harder than it should be. I used to think all trailers were built the same until one winter, the door latch froze shut mid-haul. I had to pry it open with a crowbar, while my horse panicked inside.
That moment still sticks with me. Since then, I’ve talked to dozens of manufacturers, visited plants, and asked the questions I didn’t know to ask before.
If you’re looking for a trailer that’s built well, protects your horses, and won’t leave you stranded, you’re in the right place.
This article covers 7 horse trailer manufacturers who stand out for their build, service, and safety features. You’ll walk away with the information you need to make a smart decision—without the mistakes I had to learn the hard way.
Let’s start!
Quick Comparison
Sometimes a quick comparison is all it takes to point you in the right direction. Here’s your cheat sheet before we dig into the deeper stuff:
Manufacturer | Country | Specialty Trailers | Known For | Sales Channel | Warranty Highlights | Custom Options |
Sundowner Trailers | USA | Horse, Gooseneck, Living Quarters | Long-lasting aluminum builds | Through dealers | 3-year hitch-to-bumper, 8-year structural | Some customization |
Featherlite Trailers | USA | Horse, Cargo, Flatbed, Living Quarters | Lightweight all-aluminum trailers | Dealer network | 10-year structural, 3-year general | Wide selection |
Rhinotrail | China | Semi-trailers: container, dump, tanker, low-bed | Strength, stability, and country-specific builds | Direct & OEM | Quality checks, pre-shipment inspections | Fully customizable |
Cimarron Trailers | USA | Horse, Livestock, Combo, Cargo | Custom-built aluminum trailers | Dealers only | Multi-year (check with dealer) | 250+ configuration options |
Böckmann Fahrzeugwerke | Germany | Horse, Horse Trucks, Utility | European design, high safety, compact builds | Global dealer network | TÜV certified, long-term reliability | Yes, for EU markets |
Ifor Williams Trailers | UK | Horsebox, Livestock, General Duty, Plant, Tipper | Durability and UK farming use | UK & EU distributors | Built in-house, galvanized chassis | Some models |
Lakota Trailers | USA | Horse + Living Quarters, Toy Haulers, Livestock | Living space built in-house | Authorized dealers | 8-year structural, 2-year interior, 1-year bumper | Yes, with layout options |
This table is just the start. Let’s move on and break down each manufacturer in detail.
1. Sundowner Trailers
You’ve probably heard the name before, and for good reason. Sundowner Trailers has been building aluminum trailers since 1976. Based in Coleman, Oklahoma, they’ve grown from a small operation into one of the most recognized horse trailer manufacturers in North America.
They focus on building long-lasting trailers that keep horses safe and make life easier for owners like you. Whether you’re hauling a single horse across town or managing a larger transport job, Sundowner offers a variety of options.
I’ve personally seen their trailers hold up through tough weather, long drives, and muddy rodeo grounds. It’s the kind of brand people come back to, not just because of reputation, but because the trailers work when it matters.
Track Record
Let’s look at how they got here.
Sundowner started out as a small, family-owned business. Over time, they built trust by listening to real-world feedback and improving their builds. Today, their trailers are found across the U.S. and Canada. They’ve become a top pick for ranchers, haulers, and individual buyers alike.
Their long history in the business tells you one thing: they know how to build trailers that last.
Core Offerings
Wondering what type of trailers they make? Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Bumper pull trailers: compact and easier to tow, especially for shorter trips
- Gooseneck trailers: more stable and spacious, better for long hauls or rough terrain
- Living quarters trailers: combines transport space with living amenities for multi-day travel
No matter which type you’re looking at, they focus on:
- Easy-to-use loading systems
- Well-ventilated stalls
- Strong flooring and adjustable dividers
If you’ve ever struggled with unloading a nervous horse on a steep ramp, you’ll appreciate the small touches Sundowner includes to make that easier.
Standards and Reliability
Quality can be hard to judge until you’ve used something for a while. But Sundowner gives you some peace of mind upfront.
They offer:
- A 3-year hitch-to-bumper warranty: covers general trailer components
- An 8-year structural warranty: covers the main frame and body
These warranties show that they stand behind their builds. You’ll also find that many dealers and shops are familiar with their parts. That makes maintenance and repairs easier and faster.
Support Channels
Let’s say you’ve got questions, need service, or want to see a model in person. What comes next?
Sundowner has a wide dealer network across the U.S. You can use their dealer locator on the site to find someone nearby. Their team is reachable by phone or email for tech support, warranty help, and general questions.
And if you’re working with a dealership, you’ll often get walk-throughs and help with choosing the right configuration.
Key Takeaway
If you’re looking for a well-built trailer that feels safe and reliable on the road, Sundowner is worth considering.
I’ve met people who’ve hauled the same trailer for over a decade with minimal repairs. Others like the fact that they can choose from different layouts without overcomplicating the decision.
Sundowner is a good fit if you:
- Haul frequently and need something dependable
- Want something comfortable for your horse
- Appreciate having parts and service easy to access
Is it the cheapest brand out there? No. But if you’re thinking long term, it might be one of the smartest investments you make.

2. Featherlite Trailers
Featherlite Trailers has been building lightweight, all-aluminum horse trailers since 1973. They’re based in Cresco, Iowa, and were one of the first companies to make the switch from steel to aluminum. Why does that matter for you? Aluminum is lighter, which helps with fuel economy and reduces the weight your vehicle has to pull. It’s also resistant to rust.
Over the years, they’ve built for rodeo professionals, ranchers, and even pro sports teams. That variety shows they’re not locked into one idea of what a trailer should be. They listen, adapt, and build to meet real needs.
I first noticed Featherlite when a friend pulled up to a trail ride with one. It looked clean, functional, and built to last. We talked, and she mentioned she’d owned it for over eight years without a single major issue. That stuck with me.
Track Record
Let’s step back and look at how they earned that reputation.
Featherlite made waves in the early 70s with their first all-aluminum gooseneck livestock trailer. At the time, most trailers were still built from steel. Switching to aluminum wasn’t just about weight. It changed how trailers handled, how long they lasted, and how easy they were to maintain.
Since then, they’ve kept growing. Their trailers are now found across North America, and they’ve expanded beyond just horse and livestock to custom builds for medical teams, motorsports, and more.
That kind of reach doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from building trailers people come back for.
Core Offerings
Wondering what types of trailers they offer? Here’s a quick list:
- Bumper pull trailers: shorter and easier to tow, good for quick hauls or smaller loads
- Gooseneck trailers: more stable and balanced on long drives or uneven roads
- Living quarters trailers: part trailer, part camper, with space to sleep, cook, and rest
Their designs include:
- Solid stall dividers
- Wide rear ramps or swing doors
- Ventilation and airflow setups
- Built-in storage and tack rooms
If you’ve ever had to haul horses through hot summers or muddy trails, you’ll know how valuable good airflow and smart storage can be.
Standards and Reliability:
So, what kind of support do you get once you buy?
Featherlite offers a:
- 10-year limited structural warranty: covers the frame and main build
- 3-year hitch-to-bumper warranty: covers general components
These aren’t short-term patches, they’re long-term coverage for what matters most. You’ll also find that most service centers know Featherlite parts and layouts, which can make repairs simpler.
Support Channels:
Need help or want to see a trailer up close?
Here’s how you can get support from Featherlite:
- Dealer locator: Use the tool on their website to find authorized dealers near you
- Phone support: Call them at 1-800-800-1230 for technical questions, product details, or warranty help
- Email: Reach out through the contact form on their website for follow-ups or documentation
- Walk-throughs and demos: Many dealers offer in-person tours, so you can see layouts and features before buying
- Parts and service: Most dealers carry replacement parts and handle service requests on-site
Key Takeaway:
Featherlite trailers are lightweight, strong, and built for the long haul. They’ve been in the business for decades and keep improving with feedback from real owners.
This brand makes sense if you:
- Care about reducing trailer weight without losing strength
- Want something that lasts and holds its value
- Prefer a company that offers service and answers when you need them
Are they the flashiest trailers? Maybe not. But if you want function, reliability, and a name people trust, Featherlite is worth your time.

3. Rhinotrail
If you’re looking for strength, stability, and serious hauling power, Rhinotrail is a name worth knowing. Based in Liangshan, Shandong, China, Rhinotrail has been manufacturing semi-trailers for over 12 years. The name says a lot: it combines “rhino” and “trailer,” signaling their focus on strong, reliable builds that are built to perform under pressure.
Their factory sits in Quanpu Town Industrial Park, one of China’s most active logistics hubs. From there, they supply trailers across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.
I came across Rhinotrail while sourcing equipment for a client in the construction sector. The team was responsive, the specs were clear, and the pricing? Surprisingly competitive for the level of customization offered.
Track Record
Let’s talk about experience.
Over the past decade, Rhinotrail has developed into one of China’s leading semi-trailer suppliers. They’ve built long-term relationships with logistics firms, manufacturers, construction companies, and agricultural businesses.
What sets them apart is how focused they are on custom solutions. They don’t push a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, they work directly with buyers to design trailers that match their local regulations, road conditions, and load requirements.
For international buyers, especially those unfamiliar with China-based manufacturers, that hands-on approach can make a big difference.
Core Offerings
Rhinotrail focuses on customized semi-trailer manufacturing. Their lineup includes:
- Container chassis trailers (skeletal trailers): used for transporting shipping containers
- Flatbed trailers: ideal for bulk cargo and general freight
- Dump trailers: suited for mining, sand, gravel, or demolition waste
- Low-bed trailers: built to carry heavy equipment and oversized loads
- Tanker trailers: designed to transport liquids or fuel
- Refrigerated trailers: temperature-controlled units for perishable goods
- Fence and warehouse trailers: used for livestock or goods that require side panels
Each trailer type can be adjusted for payload, axle count, suspension type, and regional compliance. This flexibility is a big plus if you operate in different climates, terrains, or regulatory zones.
Standards and Reliability So how does Rhinotrail keep quality consistent across so many trailer types?
They rely on:
- Automated welding and laser cutting equipment for precision builds
- High-tensile steel and reinforced chassis designs for better load resistance
- Pre-shipment inspections and quality control teams to catch defects early
Rhinotrail also adapts builds based on country-specific safety and transport laws. That means fewer delays at customs or port inspections.
In my experience, this saved a client weeks of red tape when importing units to East Africa. The trailers arrived ready for road use, without needing modifications.
Support Channels
If you’re interested in working with Rhinotrail, here’s how to get started:
- Official website: www.rhinotrail.com
- Phone: +86 12312341234
- Direct inquiry: Use the contact form or email to request product specs, pricing, or customization
- Factory location: Quanpu Town Industrial Park, Liangshan County, Jining City, Shandong Province, China
- OEM/ODM support: They accept branded trailer requests and provide export documents for customs clearance
Their sales and tech teams speak English, which helps if you’re buying internationally. Expect answers within one business day.
Key Takeaway
Rhinotrail is a solid choice if you’re looking for:
- Custom-built semi-trailers that match specific use cases
- Strong and stable trailer frames for heavy loads
- Manufacturing support that understands local and international shipping standards
It’s a great fit for companies in:
- Construction and mining
- Bulk logistics and container transport
- Agriculture and refrigerated supply chains
If you need more than just a catalog option and want a manufacturer that will work with your specs, Rhinotrail is worth your attention.

4. Cimarron Trailers
If you’re looking for strength and custom options in an aluminum trailer, Cimarron Trailers is worth your time. Based in Chickasha, Oklahoma, Cimarron has been building high-quality aluminum trailers since 2000. They focus on combining durability with comfort, both for animals and drivers.
What really caught my attention about Cimarron was the craftsmanship. I walked through one at a livestock event a few years back. The welds were clean, the dividers slid easily, and even small features like drain holes and vents were thoughtfully placed. You could tell someone who actually hauls horses helped design it.
Track Record
Experience matters, especially when you’re transporting livestock or horses over long distances.
Cimarron may not be the oldest name on this list, but in just over two decades, they’ve built a loyal customer base across the U.S. Their growth has been steady, thanks to a strong dealer network and customer-first mentality.
They’ve also stayed flexible. Instead of locking into fixed models, they offer build-to-order trailers with over 250 customization options. That kind of range can make a real difference when you need something specific for your animals or operation.
Core Offerings
Cimarron focuses on several core trailer types:
- Horse trailers: available in slant or straight load, bumper pull or gooseneck
- Livestock trailers: designed for durability and airflow, with solid floor options
- Cargo and combo trailers: for gear, tack, and mixed loads
Their trailers often feature:
- Aluminum flooring with rubber mats
- Adjustable stall dividers
- Removable rear tack or swing-out saddle racks
Have you ever tried reorganizing a poorly designed tack area in the dark? I have. Cimarron’s layout makes those long nights on the road a little less frustrating.
Standards and Reliability
So what are you really getting with a Cimarron trailer?
Each unit is made from aircraft-grade aluminum. That means lighter weight without giving up strength. The brand also uses interlocking extruded flooring, which helps reduce corrosion and adds structural support.
While I couldn’t find warranty info listed clearly on their site, many dealers offer a multi-year limited warranty. It’s always smart to confirm warranty terms with the dealer directly.
Support Channels:
Cimarron does not sell directly to the public. You’ll need to purchase through one of their authorized dealers.
Here’s how to contact them:
- Dealer locator: Use the dealer search tool on their website to find your nearest authorized dealer. This is the only way to buy a Cimarron trailer.
- Phone – Local: 405-222-4800
- Phone – Toll-Free: 877-286-8757
- Fax: 405-222-4844
- General Email: [email protected]
- Parts Department Email: [email protected]
- Physical Address: 1442 Highway 62 East Chickasha, OK 73018 Located 1.5 miles east of the I-44 Turnpike, on the north side of Highway 62
- Business Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM (Central Time)
- Email response time: Most inquiries receive a reply within 1 to 3 hours during business hours.
If you prefer phone calls, you’re encouraged to call the toll-free line during business hours. A team member will connect you to the right department or help you with general questions.
Key Takeaway:
Cimarron is ideal for buyers who:
- Want an aluminum trailer that’s both strong and customizable
- Need options that match specific livestock or horse setups
- Value long-term use and accessible service
If you’re running a business where animals and gear need to move safely and efficiently, Cimarron gives you the flexibility to build the trailer you actually need.

5. Böckmann Fahrzeugwerke
Looking for European craftsmanship with a focus on comfort and safety? Böckmann, based in Lastrup, Germany, has been building horse trailers since 1956. Family-owned and widely respected, they’ve sold more than 750,000 trailers worldwide.
You can spot one a mile away. I saw a Böckmann at a competition in France once, and the details were unmistakable. From the aerodynamic shape to the rear step and ventilation—it was clear this wasn’t just about moving horses. It was about making the trip easier for everyone involved.
Track Record:
Böckmann brings over six decades of experience to every trailer they make.
Their trailers are sold in over 30 countries. That global reach doesn’t just mean popularity—it shows they’ve learned to meet different road laws, weather needs, and user habits around the world.
They’re especially known in the EU for high standards in build quality, safety features, and lightweight trailer design.
Core Offerings
Böckmann produces a wide range of trailers:
- Horse trailers: from single-axle to tandem axle, with models like the Portax and Traveller
- Horse trucks: small to mid-size trucks for multiple horses, often used for long hauls across Europe
- Utility and cargo trailers: suitable for general transport or personal use
Key design features include:
- Rubber torsion suspension for smoother rides
- High-grip loading ramps with low angles
- Aluminum and polyester roof combinations for better insulation
If you’ve ever driven with a trailer in icy conditions, you’ll appreciate those extra touches in handling and safety.
Standards and Reliability
So how do they keep their quality consistent?
Böckmann trailers are built under Germany’s strict vehicle manufacturing guidelines. Their team uses automated weld systems, weatherproof sealing, and non-slip flooring. Many models come with a TÜV certification—a standard of quality and safety widely accepted across Europe.
They also focus on long-term function. Most models are designed for easy maintenance, with parts and accessories readily available through their dealer network.
Support Channels: Need help or want to see one up close?
Here’s what to do:
- Use the dealer locator to find a local seller
- Contact their support team for manuals, sizing info, or parts
- Ask about trailer demos through partner events or local shows
Their multilingual support team and detailed brochures make international communication easier if you’re not based in Europe.
Key Takeaway
Böckmann is the right fit if you:
- Need a premium trailer with advanced safety features
- Transport horses long distances and want smoother rides
- Appreciate German engineering and clean design
They may not be the cheapest, but if you value comfort, safety, and style, Böckmann is a reliable pick that balances performance with long-term use.

6. Ifor Williams Trailers
If you’re based in the UK or Europe and looking for a trailer built to handle wet roads, narrow lanes, and heavy use, Ifor Williams is a name you’ll run into often. The company started in 1958 in North Wales and has grown into the UK’s largest manufacturer of trailers under 3,500 kg gross weight. That’s about 7,700 pounds.
You’ll see their trailers on farms, job sites, and highways across the UK. I’ve used one of their livestock trailers before and was impressed by how stable it felt on winding roads. That kind of confidence is hard to measure until you’ve driven with something that doesn’t feel right.
Track Record
So how did they become such a trusted name?
With more than six decades of experience and over 500,000 trailers built, Ifor Williams has earned their reputation through reliability and consistency. Their trailers are sold through more than 50 distributors across the UK and in countries around Europe. That wide reach makes it easier to get support, service, and spare parts.
They also listen to their customers. Many of their features like their signature rear loading gates or galvanized chassis come directly from real-world use cases.
Core Offering
Ifor Williams offers a wide range of trailers for different needs. Here’s what you’ll find in their lineup:
- Livestock trailers
- Horsebox trailers
- General duty trailers
- Tipper trailers
- Flatbed trailers
- Car transporters
- Box vans
- Plant trailers
If you ever had to make one trailer do too many jobs, this kind of variety helps you get a better match for what you really need.
Standards and Reliability
Every trailer is made at one of their four facilities in North Wales. They use hot-dip galvanizing to protect the chassis from rust and build most trailer frames from high-grade steel. Galvanizing is a coating process that adds corrosion resistance.
Their trailers are known for withstanding heavy loads and frequent use, especially in farming and construction settings. From my experience, their axles and couplings handle long-term use better than many others in this category.
Ifor Williams sells trailers through an official distributor network. You’ll need to go through an authorized distributor for purchasing and service.
Support Channels
Here’s how to get in touch with them:
- Email: [email protected]
- Dealer locator: Visit the “Distributor” area of their website to find your nearest authorized dealer
- Brochures and price lists: Available on the website through the “Brochure & Price List” section under Products
- Sales Contacts: 01490 412527
- Customer Care Contacts: 01490 412626 (Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM)
- Head Office Reception: 01490 412626
f you’re overseas, they also have an export team that can help with documentation and specs for your local road laws.
Key Takeaway
Ifor Williams is a strong fit if you:
- Need a tough, all-weather trailer for daily work
- Want access to local service in the UK or Europe
- Prefer a brand with decades of testing in real-world conditions
Are they fancy? No. Are they functional? Absolutely. If you’re looking for a practical trailer that holds up under pressure, this is one worth checking out.

7. Lakota Trailers
If you want a horse trailer that feels like home on the inside, Lakota is one to watch. Based in Bristol, Indiana, Lakota specializes in living quarters horse trailers. That means trailers that include beds, bathrooms, kitchens, and more while still hauling horses safely.
They’ve only been around since 2005, but they’ve made a strong impression. At a rodeo I attended a few years ago, someone gave me a full tour of their Lakota trailer. I remember thinking, “This feels like an RV with stalls.” Everything had a clean layout. It just made sense.
Track Record
Lakota may be newer than some brands, but they’ve grown fast. Today, they’re one of the top-selling brands of living quarters trailers in the U.S.
One reason? They build the trailer and the interior under one roof. A lot of brands outsource the living quarters to other companies, which can lead to fit issues or delays. Lakota keeps that process in-house, so the final product fits and functions as one unit.
Core Offerings
Here’s what you’ll find in Lakota’s trailer lineup:
- Bighorn Edition: higher-end living quarters trailers, available in sizes from 11 to 18 feet
- Charger Edition: mid-range living quarters trailers, between 9 and 16 feet
- Livestock trailers: built tough for hauling cattle, goats, and other animals
- Toy haulers: trailers that combine living space with room to carry ATVs, bikes, or gear
What stands out is their use of smart layouts. Each model has storage options, full bathrooms, and optional slide-outs to add floor space when parked.
Standards and Reliability:
So what kind of coverage do you get?
Lakota trailers come with:
- 8-year warranty on the aluminum structure
- 2-year warranty on the living quarters interior
- 1-year hitch-to-bumper warranty covering general craftsmanship
In addition to the warranty, many buyers like that Lakota’s support team is based in the U.S. You don’t have to go through layers of resellers to get help or ask questions.
Support Channels
Here’s how to connect with Lakota:
- Dealer locator: helps you find nearby authorized sellers
- Phone and email: listed on their site, with different contacts for sales, support, and service
- In-person tours: many dealers will walk you through available units and help with custom orders
Their team is known for fast responses. I reached out once for floor plan details and got a full packet by email the same day. That kind of responsiveness can save you time during planning.
Key Takeaway
Lakota is a great match if you:
- Need a trailer with built-in living quarters
- Want all-in-one construction for smoother operation and design
- Are looking for a comfortable setup for long hauls or extended stays
If you’re hauling horses across states or staying on-site at shows or ranches, having a place to rest and recharge can make all the difference.

Conclusion
You’ve just explored seven horse trailer manufacturers that stand out for quality, safety, and long-term value.
I shared what I’ve learned through trial, through mistakes, and through asking hard questions before handing over cash.
Now it’s your turn.
Whether you’re hauling for work, competition, or peace of mind, the right trailer isn’t just equipment. It’s protection. It’s peace of mind.
So what do you need most, comfort, strength, or support? What kind of trailer would make your life easier?
Start now. Contact the manufacturer that speaks to your needs.
Still unsure where to begin? Contact us today. We’ll help you take the next step.