REAR facing travel in horse transportation is on the increase with the ever-growing popularity of the two-horse van.

The ease of driving a van coupled with all the conveniences of a truck make light work for any equestrian. Being able to drive a 3.5 tonne van on a European category B licence is key for seasonal staff in horse yards and anyone cautious of driving larger horse trucks.

Busy professionals now see the two-horse van as essential in the day to day running of their business with many yards having multiple vans on the road showcasing their logos and promoting them as they go. Amateur competitors love that there is no heavy lifting or coupling involved so they can concentrate on the task at hand.

JS Horsetrucks vans are ever evolving to suit the needs of the equestrian; however the one constant there is no compromise on is always strength and safety of the vehicle.

Owner John Scarff says: “we maintain very strong relationships with our customers. Two-horse vans are utility vehicles, there to serve a purpose so regular maintenance to a high standard will stand to the owner and ensure its longevity thus keeping the resale value at a premium when it comes time to upgrade.”

JS Horsetrucks take advantage of the latest innovations in materials. Personal preference

The latest change is the introduction of aluminium skinned high-density composite panels to replace traditional GRP which has been known to absorb moisture over time. The outer aluminium skin provides a super slick surface for painting.

“A strong partition and reinforced bulkhead is also essential. Everything else is down to personal preference and options vary widely. We have put in additional fans, cameras, safes, loading gates, more padding, more lighting, and even sound systems for the horse but all our vans function the same.

“We apply the same high standard in the making of the horse box regardless of price, whether the customer is an everyday user or an avid enthusiast. The horses are encased safely and separately from the driver,” says Scarff. Huge demand

Year on year demand has increased so too has supply, with JS Horsetrucks supplying top Irish showjumpers, leading racehorse trainers and premier stud farms.

“The biggest advertisement we could ever ask for is horse vans on the road. We built a number of big trucks in 2019 as well as the smaller vans and are coming close to 200 vehicles now on the road, which is no mean feat for a growing business” says Scarff.

JS Horsetrucks will be at the RDS Dublin Horseshow again for the fifth year in 2020.

“We see the Horse Show as an essential part of our calendar year as it brings together equine enthusiasts of all ages and disciplines. It’s a wonderful show for us in the heart of the city so we are excited to show everyone what we have to offer in 2020.”

Inquiries to info@jshorsetrucks.ie, or see www.jshorsetrucks.ie.