Horsebox Trailer Tyre Laws: UK Requirements Explained

Photo of Author Verified
Researched, written and verified
Verified
Our methodology focuses on accuracy first.
Research is carried out using primary manufacturer data, official guidance, and trusted industry sources. Where appropriate, content is cross-checked against real-world fitting practices and common customer queries to ensure it is practical as well as technically correct. Articles are reviewed periodically and revised when regulations, standards, or best practices change.
 by Chesca D
Photo of Author
Chesca D is a Content & Editorial Coordinator at Tyres.co.uk and is responsible for researching, coordinating, and producing accurate, up-to-date tyre guidance for our Knowledge Hub.
Each article is created using manufacturer specifications, recognised industry standards, and current UK regulations, and is reviewed internally to ensure clarity and technical accuracy. Content is updated regularly to reflect changes in tyre laws, safety guidance, and product specifications.
Fact-checked by the Tyres.co.uk editorial team
Published June 17, 2026
Article Image

When it comes to transporting goods, including livestock in a dedicated trailer, many drivers pay most of their attention to the condition of their driving vehicle and fail to undertake the correct checks on the trailer itself.

Ensuring you have the right tyres, properly inflated and inspected, ahead of travel is crucial for safety and for comfort. And when your travel concerns the movement of livestock, both of these are equally important. Here’s all you need to know about horsebox trailer tyres specifically, so you can always ensure a safe, comfortable, and legally compliant ride for your horse.

What Kind of Tyres Does a Horsebox Need?

It is recommended that, when shopping for a horsebox, drivers choose ST tyres.

ST tyres are Special Trailer tyres, that boast several characteristics that ensure they are strong and durable enough to be towed behind a driving vehicle. The common features to look for include a reinforced sidewall design and construction, stiffer design to counter any swap when cornering, an aggressive tread pattern to maximise traction, and superior load capacity to handle the weight of the trailer.

Opting for ST tyres ensures that you give your horsebox trailer the best and most supportive tyres on which to travel.

But what else do drivers need to know about these tyres to ensure adequate maintenance and compliance on the roads?

Article Image

How to Maintain Horsebox Tyres to a High Standard

In order for horsebox tyres to be recognised as compliant and road legal, they need to be maintained to a high standard.

As with any tyre on any vehicle, that means regular inspections, measuring the tread depth, and ensuring that the tyres you fit are suitable for the terrain you’re driving on.

For a horsebox or similar style of towing, tyres need to have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm – the same as regular tyres on a passenger car. The tyres also need to have sufficient load rating to handle the weight of the horsebox and should not display any signs of damage or excessive / uneven wear.

Other regular checks include the tyre pressure and alignment of the tyres, ensuring that they are fully responsive when being towed and that they can handle the terrain and conditions you are driving in.

Which Brands Make the Best ST Tyres?

With all that in mind, where can you get the best ST tyres to keep your horsebox safely on the road?

Brands like Transeagle and Wanda specialise in tyres for trailers and other towing vehicles, with these tyres much smaller in size but with superior strength and durability.

Free Country also specialises in trailer tyres for mixed terrain, while Durun provides leading Chinese innovation and design flair on the commercial trailer tyre market.

Opting for any of these brands will ensure peace of mind when it comes to quality and reliability – though as with any tyre, it is proper maintenance that underpins safety and performance and keeps your horsebox legal on the road.

If you need specialist advice on how to pick the best trailer tyres for your horsebox, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experts – or you can browse our extensive range of tyres for all vehicles and occasions online.

Back to Knowledge Hub