A horsebox is a significant investment, but for many owners it can spend far more time parked than it does on the road. Finding somewhere safe and suitable to keep it between competitions, shows, events and journeys is therefore an important part of horsebox ownership.
Professional horsebox storage provides a practical alternative to keeping your horsebox at home, at a yard or parked outside in an unsuitable location. From improved security and weather protection to freeing up valuable space, dedicated storage can help protect both your vehicle and your investment.
In this guide, we look at the benefits of horsebox storage, the different options available and what you should consider when searching for horsebox storage near you.
What Is Horsebox Storage?
Horsebox storage is a dedicated space where horseboxes, horse lorries and other equestrian transport vehicles can be kept when they aren't being used.
Storage options can range from secure outdoor compounds to covered parking and fully enclosed indoor facilities. Some providers can accommodate smaller horseboxes and converted vans, while others have space specifically designed for larger horse lorries.
Because horseboxes can be considerably larger and taller than conventional vehicles, finding the right facility is particularly important.
Why Store Your Horsebox Professionally?
Horseboxes can be expensive vehicles containing valuable equipment, fixtures and fittings. Leaving one parked outside for extended periods can expose it to weather, deterioration, theft and accidental damage.
A professional secure horsebox storage facility can provide a dedicated place to keep your vehicle between uses.
For owners who don't have sufficient space at home or at their equestrian yard, storage also provides a convenient solution without having to permanently sacrifice valuable parking or yard space.
1. Improve the Security of Your Horsebox
Security is one of the main reasons owners look for specialist horsebox storage.
Horseboxes can be valuable vehicles in their own right and may also contain expensive equestrian equipment. Keeping them in a dedicated storage facility can provide additional security compared with leaving them on a driveway, roadside or open yard.
Depending on the facility, security features may include CCTV, gated access, perimeter fencing, lighting, access controls, alarms or on-site personnel.
Always check the individual security arrangements offered by a storage provider before booking.
2. Protect Your Horsebox From the Weather
Horseboxes are designed to operate outdoors, but that doesn't mean prolonged exposure to the elements is ideal.
Rain, frost, snow, sunlight and changing temperatures can gradually affect bodywork, seals, paintwork and other components. Moisture can also contribute to corrosion, particularly when a vehicle remains stationary for extended periods.
Covered horsebox storage or indoor horsebox storage can provide additional protection from the weather when your vehicle isn't being used.
For horseboxes that are only used occasionally or seasonally, this can be particularly beneficial.
3. Free Up Space at Home or at the Yard
A horsebox takes up a considerable amount of space.
Keeping one permanently on a driveway may restrict parking for other vehicles, while space at an equestrian yard can often be put to better use.
Using a dedicated horsebox storage facility allows you to move the vehicle off-site while still keeping it accessible when required.
This can be especially useful for people living in residential areas where parking a large horsebox at home isn't practical.
4. Reduce the Risks of Leaving a Horsebox Unused
Vehicles can develop problems when left unused for extended periods.
Batteries may discharge, tyres can lose pressure and mechanical components can deteriorate. Damp and condensation can also become an issue inside the horse area and living accommodation.
Before putting a horsebox into long-term storage, it's worth properly preparing the vehicle and checking it periodically.
Some specialist vehicle storage facilities may offer additional maintenance or inspection services, although these will vary between providers.
5. Ideal for Seasonal Horsebox Storage
For many owners, horsebox use changes throughout the year.
You might use your horsebox frequently during the competition or showing season but significantly less during the winter months.
Long-term horsebox storage provides somewhere secure to keep the vehicle during these quieter periods.
Rather than leaving a valuable horsebox sitting outside throughout winter, you can choose a storage option appropriate to your vehicle and budget.
What Types of Horsebox Storage Are Available?
There are several ways to store a horsebox, and the best choice will depend on the size and value of your vehicle, how frequently you use it and your budget.
Outdoor horsebox storage is often the simplest option. Your vehicle is kept in an outdoor compound, ideally with appropriate security and controlled access.
Covered horsebox storage offers additional protection by keeping the vehicle underneath a roof or canopy while remaining relatively easy to access.
Indoor horsebox storage provides the greatest protection from the elements, with the horsebox kept within an enclosed building or warehouse.
Not every indoor vehicle storage facility can accommodate a large horse lorry, so always check height, width, length and weight restrictions before booking.
Horsebox Storage vs Horse Trailer Storage
Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, horseboxes and horse trailers have different storage requirements.
A horse trailer is towed by another vehicle and will generally be smaller than a motorised horsebox or horse lorry. A horsebox is a vehicle in its own right and can range from relatively compact conversions to substantial HGV-based horse lorries with living accommodation.
If you're looking for storage, make sure the provider knows exactly what type of vehicle or trailer you have.
Providing the overall length, width and height of your horsebox can make it much easier to establish whether a particular storage space is suitable.
What Should You Look for in Secure Horsebox Storage?
When comparing horsebox storage near you, there are several factors worth considering.
Security should be high on the list. Ask about CCTV, access controls, fencing, lighting and how the facility is monitored.
Accessibility is equally important. If you regularly attend early-morning competitions or return late from events, check when you can access your vehicle and whether advance notice is required.
You should also confirm that there is sufficient room to manoeuvre your horsebox safely. Large horse lorries require considerably more turning and parking space than cars.
For indoor storage, check entrance dimensions carefully. A building may be suitable for cars and vans but unable to accommodate the height of a larger horsebox.
Preparing a Horsebox for Long-Term Storage
If your horsebox will be stored for several weeks or months, preparing it properly can help prevent problems.
Start by thoroughly cleaning the horse area and removing bedding, feed and other materials that could attract pests or retain moisture. Ensure the interior is dry and consider removing valuable equipment rather than leaving it inside the vehicle.
Check tyre pressures, fluid levels and the condition of the battery. Depending on the vehicle and storage arrangement, a suitable battery maintenance system may also be worth considering.
Living areas should be cleaned, food removed and water systems prepared appropriately for the expected storage conditions.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your particular horsebox and its equipment.
How Much Does Horsebox Storage Cost?
The cost of horsebox storage varies depending on several factors, including location, vehicle size, storage type, security and any additional services provided.
Secure outdoor storage will typically be more affordable than covered or indoor storage, while particularly large horse lorries may cost more because of the amount of space they require.
Rather than comparing providers purely on price, consider the value of your horsebox and the level of protection you require.
Is Horsebox Storage Worth It?
If you don't have a suitable place to keep your horsebox at home or at your yard, dedicated storage can be an excellent solution.
It can help free up valuable space while providing a more appropriate environment for a vehicle that may represent a substantial investment.
For owners of larger or more valuable horseboxes, choosing a secure storage facility with suitable access and security can be particularly worthwhile.
Find Horsebox Storage Near You
Finding suitable storage for a horsebox can be more difficult than finding conventional car parking. You need sufficient space, suitable access and a facility capable of accommodating the dimensions of your vehicle.
That's where Store My Ride can help.
Store My Ride brings vehicle storage providers together in one place, making it easier to discover and compare storage options based on your location and requirements.
Whether you need secure horsebox storage, outdoor horsebox storage, covered horsebox storage, indoor horsebox storage or long-term horse lorry storage, you can search for providers offering suitable space for your vehicle.
Find horsebox storage near you with Store My Ride and give your horsebox a secure place to stay between journeys.