How Do Towing Laws Affect Horse Float Finance?
Towing laws in Australia vary by state, and lenders may require proof that your tow vehicle meets legal requirements before approving horse float finance. If your vehicle isnโt suitable for towing, you may need to:
โ๏ธ Upgrade your vehicle before applying for finance
โ๏ธ Check state weight limits to ensure legal compliance
โ๏ธ Confirm insurance coverage for both the float and tow vehicle
๐ก Tip: If you're financing a large horse float, check your vehicleโs towing capacity before applying for a loan to avoid compliance issues.
๐ฆ Towing Laws by State & Their Impact on Horse Float Finance
Each state has specific towing laws that can impact loan approval and insurance requirements.
| ๐ State | Towing Law Overview | How It Affects Finance |
|---|---|---|
| ๐ฆ๐บ QLD | Tow vehicle must comply with Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) & Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) | Some lenders check tow vehicle suitability before loan approval |
| ๐ฆ๐บ NSW | Floats over 2,000kg ATM require electric brakes | Insurance and finance may require brake system upgrades |
| ๐ฆ๐บ VIC | Towing vehicles must not exceed manufacturer limits | Lenders may ask for proof of tow vehicle compliance |
| ๐ฆ๐บ WA | Floats over 750kg ATM require brakes | If upgrading brakes, finance may be affected |
| ๐ฆ๐บ SA | Requires towing mirrors if float is wider than the tow vehicle | Lenders may require proof of compliance for insurance |
| ๐ฆ๐บ TAS | Towbars must be rated for the floatโs ATM | Some lenders check towbar ratings before finance approval |
| ๐ฆ๐บ NT | Maximum towing capacity is defined by vehicle class | Insurance and finance may require additional certifications |
| ๐ฆ๐บ ACT | Horse floats over 4.5 tonnes require a heavy vehicle license | Lenders may not approve loans for heavy floats if driver lacks the required license |
๐ก Tip: If you need to upgrade your tow vehicle, some lenders offer bundle financing for both the horse float and vehicle.
๐ What This Means for Your Horse Float Loan
If your tow vehicle doesnโt meet state laws, it can delay your loan approval. Some lenders require proof of:
โ๏ธ Your vehicleโs towing capacity before approving horse float finance
โ๏ธ Electric brakes and safety upgrades for larger floats
โ๏ธ Valid driverโs license and compliance for heavy horse floats
| ๐ Situation | How Towing Laws Affect Finance Approval |
|---|---|
| ๐ Towing an unbraked horse float | Some lenders may not approve finance if your tow vehicle isnโt compliant |
| ๐ Buying a float over 2,000kg ATM | You may need electric brakes installed before loan approval |
| ๐ฐ Financing both a tow vehicle and float | Some lenders offer bundle financing for vehicle and float upgrades |
| ๐ Using a business vehicle for towing | You may qualify for a chattel mortgage with GST benefits |
๐ก Tip: Before financing a heavy horse float, check if you need a special towing license to legally drive it.
๐ Pros & Cons of Towing Laws Affecting Horse Float Finance
โ
Pros:
โ๏ธ Ensures your tow vehicle and float are legally compliant
โ๏ธ Helps you avoid fines, insurance issues, or rejected loans
โ๏ธ Some lenders offer finance options for vehicle upgrades
โ ๏ธ Cons:
โ Loan approval delays if tow vehicle doesnโt meet legal limits
โ May require extra costs for brakes, mirrors, or towbars
โ Heavy floats may require specific towing licenses in some states
๐ณ Why a Finance Broker Can Help If Towing Laws Affect Your Loan
A finance broker can:
โ
Find lenders that consider towing capacity when approving loans
โ
Secure financing for tow vehicle and float together
โ
Help with insurance and compliance requirements
๐ Final Thoughts
Towing laws impact horse float finance approval, insurance coverage, and safety compliance. Before applying for finance, ensure your tow vehicle meets legal requirements for your state. If needed, a finance broker can help you secure a loan that covers both your horse float and necessary towing upgrades.
๐ Need horse float finance that meets towing laws? Get expert advice today!
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DISCLAIMER
The information provided on this website is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your financial needs, circumstances and objectives and should NOT be construed as financial, taxation or legal advice. For more information, get in touch with our experienced partner brokers today.