Horsebox Insurance - A Complete Guide

Horseboxes and their cargo are not only expensive, but also precious. That’s why it pays to have a good insurance plan. Whether you’re a weekend eventer with a single pony, or run a professional stable, safely transporting horses is at the heart of responsible horse care.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why you need horsebox insurance, what it typically covers, how to choose the right policy, potential pitfalls to watch out for, and some of the UK’s most popular insurance providers.

Why get horsebox insurance?

Horsebox insurance is a legal requirement in the UK - any motorised vehicle on public roads requires insurance. Whilst there’s no requirement to have comprehensive cover - third-party is legally sufficient - you must have some level of cover.

Aside from being legally required, horsebox insurance offers protection against financial loss should you get into an accident. Even horseboxes at the lower end of the market represent a significant investment. Accidents, theft, or vandalism can cause significant damage, and insurance helps to mitigate repair costs whilst also providing peace of mind.

In addition to covering your lorry, some policies insure your horses whilst they’re being transported. Although well-maintained horseboxes typically offer comparatively great protection for your horse, horses can and do get injured when being transported, leading to potential vet bills.

What to look for in a horsebox insurance package?

There are three broad categories of insurance available to horsebox owners: third-party only (TPO); third-party, fire and theft (TPFT); and comprehensive.

• Third-Party Only: the legal minimum that covers damage to other vehicles, but not your own.
• Third-Party Only, Fire & Theft: covers third-party claims plus your vehicle if it’s damaged by fire or is stolen.
• Comprehensive: includes third-party, fire, theft, and damage to your own vehicle, whether you’re at fault or not. In most cases, comprehensive cover is the most sensible choice.

Horsebox insurance can go beyond covering the horsebox itself. You’re often able to include insurance for a horse trailer, your tack whilst in transit, as well as vet fees for injuries sustained during transit to your package. Breakdown cover is also often offered, which is particularly important when transporting livestock.

An item that’s often overlooked until it’s needed is overnight accommodation and recovery. If your horsebox breaks down far from home, a policy that covers overnight stabling for your horses and accommodation can be invaluable. If you’re intending to use your horsebox for commercial purposes, it’s important to ensure that activity is covered by your policy. Typically, business use is not covered by standard horsebox insurance intended for private use.

What to watch out for when taking out an insurance policy?

When taking out an insurance policy against your horsebox, pay attention to the small print. Having the wrong type of insurance can mean that you’re not insured at all!

Is your horsebox actually covered?

Although there are several factors to look out for when purchasing horsebox insurance, the most important is that your insurance is valid. You must have horsebox insurance, not van insurance. Often, people enter their registration into comparison sites, find an agreeable quote, and take out cover. Unbeknownst to them, the cover is actually for a van and does not cover use as a horsebox. Wherever you get a quote for your registration, ensure that it’s valid for a horsebox.

Mileage restrictions

As with any vehicle insurance policy, it’s important that the number of miles you intend to cover is reflected in the policy. If you exceed your mileage allowance, your policy could be invalidated. If you know you’re going to cover more miles than you previously thought, contact your insurer to ask about increasing the limit.

Claims excess

Excess is the amount you pay if you claim on your policy. The higher your excess, the lower your premium. Make sure you’re aware of your excess before taking out your policy.

How much will it cost to insure my horsebox?

When it comes to insuring your horsebox, the costs can vary significantly based on several factors. Chief among these is the type of coverage you choose. Additionally, the value of your horsebox, your driving experience, and where you live (postcode) can all play a role in determining your total costs.

Another factor to consider is whether you need any extra features or add-ons. For instance, breakdown recovery specific to horseboxes may increase your premium but can save you from significant costs if you find yourself stranded with animals in transit. Likewise, if you regularly travel long distances for shows or events, you might want to check for unlimited mileage options. Insurers often look at usage patterns - commercial versus personal use - as well. Commercial use policies tend to be more expensive due to the higher assumed risk and miles driven.

To get the best value, it’s essential to shop around for quotes from reputable insurance providers. Comparing policies side-by-side will give you a good sense of what’s included in the base price and what additional features might be worth paying a bit more for.

UK horsebox insurance providers

There are several providers offering horsebox insurance in the UK. However, most are underwritten by the same few providers. Here are a few popular providers:

NFU Mutual

NFU Mutual is well-known in the countryside community, offering comprehensive cover for agricultural and equine-related vehicles. They provide a personal, localised service and have a reputation for efficient claims handling.

SEIB (South Essex Insurance Brokers)

SEIB has a long history of specialising in equestrian insurance, including cover for horseboxes and trailers. They understand the complexities of transporting horses and will work with you to create a policy that fits.

With bespoke packages for both personal and commercial use, plus advanced breakdown and rescue services.

KBIS

KBIS specialises in equestrian insurance and has developed a range of horsebox policies for different needs and budgets. They offer flexible coverage, including standalone trailer insurance, and a straightforward claims process praised by customers.

Shearwater Insurance

With over 25 years in the equine insurance industry, Shearwater understands the needs of horse owners. They provide multiple levels of cover, from basic to fully comprehensive, including optional extras.

Towergate Insurance

Towergate is a broad insurance provider but has specific equestrian packages. They offer horsebox insurance for a wide range of vehicle types and can accommodate drivers of varying ages.

They offer options for extended breakdown cover, replacement locks, and personal accident coverage for riders and grooms.

Conclusion

Horsebox insurance might feel like yet another expense, but it is essential protection—both legally and for your own peace of mind. When selecting a policy, focus on comprehensive coverage that suits how you use your horsebox. Compare quotes from established providers, paying close attention to the fine print, breakdown assistance, and any extras like legal expenses or vet fees. By choosing the right insurer, you can enjoy traveling with your horses, confident that you and your beloved animals are covered.

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Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Always consult with a professional insurance broker or advisor to find the best policy for your specific needs.