Transporting hay for horses or livestock requires a rack that balances capacity, durability, and safety. We researched and compared seven top hay racks for trailers, evaluating manufacturer specifications, industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback. This guide highlights key differences in materials, mounting, and weather resistance to help you choose the right rack for your towing needs.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Tusco Hay Rack 72-Inch Heavy Duty Top Pick 72" length, 18" depth, 16-gauge steel, powder-coated black |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
K&H Manufacturing Hay Saver 48-Inch Best for Small Trailers 48" length, 12" depth, steel with black paint |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Priefert SQRH48 Square Hay Rack Most Durable 48" x 48" square, 1.5" square tubing, 14-gauge steel |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
BaleBuster BB-60 Hay Rack Best Value 60" length, 14" depth, steel with black powder coat |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
Shoof 1066 Hay Rack 66-Inch Lightweight Option 66" length, 12" depth, aluminum construction |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Tarter Farm & Ranch Hay Rack 48-Inch Budget Pick 48" length, 10" depth, painted steel |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Equestrian Hay Rack 72-Inch Heavy Duty High Capacity 72" length, 18" depth, 14-gauge steel, black powder coat |
8.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Tusco Hay Rack 72-Inch Heavy Duty: Top Pick
The Tusco 72-inch hay rack is a solid choice for horse and livestock owners. Its 16-gauge steel frame handles up to 300 lbs, and the powder coating resists rust. Owner feedback highlights easy installation with universal brackets, though some note the rack is heavy, which can be a challenge for solo setup.
However, the rack’s open design may allow smaller hay pieces to fall through. If you transport fine-cut hay, consider a model with a mesh bottom. This rack is best for those needing a durable, no-fuss solution for standard bales.
- Holds up to 300 lbs of hay bales or loose hay
- Universal mounting brackets fit most 2" receiver hitches
- Removable sides for easy loading and cleaning
Pros: Sturdy construction with reinforced corners; Easy to install and remove
Cons: Slightly heavy at 45 lbs
2. K&H Manufacturing Hay Saver 48-Inch: Best for Small Trailers
K&H Manufacturing’s Hay Saver is designed for compact trailers where space is limited. Its 48-inch length fits easily on short beds, and the sloped floor encourages hay to move toward the animal, reducing waste. Based on owner feedback, the rack is easy to install and works well for one or two horses.
However, the lower capacity and painted finish (not powder-coated) mean it may not withstand heavy daily use or harsh weather. Skip this if you need a heavy-duty rack for large bales or frequent hauling.
- Compact size fits small utility and horse trailers
- Includes mounting hardware for 2" receiver
- Sloped design reduces hay waste
Pros: Space-saving for smaller trailers; Sloped floor helps hay slide forward
Cons: Lower weight capacity (150 lbs); Paint may chip over time
3. Priefert SQRH48 Square Hay Rack: Most Durable
The Priefert SQRH48 is built like a tank. Using 14-gauge steel with a galvanized coating, it withstands years of outdoor exposure and heavy loads. Owner reviews frequently praise its durability, even with large round bales. The square shape allows efficient stacking.
On the downside, installation requires drilling into the trailer, which may not suit renters or those who prefer bolt-on solutions. It’s also one of the heaviest racks, adding significant weight. Best for permanent installation on a dedicated livestock trailer.
- Heavy-duty square design holds up to 400 lbs
- Galvanized finish resists corrosion
- Mounts to trailer wall or post
Pros: Extremely robust build; Galvanized for long life
Cons: Requires drilling for installation; Heavy (55 lbs)
4. BaleBuster BB-60 Hay Rack: Best Value
BaleBuster’s BB-60 offers a good balance of price and functionality. At 60 inches, it fits most trailers, and the folding design is convenient for storage. We compared owner feedback and found many satisfied users who appreciate the value.
However, the steel gauge is thinner than premium models, and a few owners noted weld cracks after heavy use. This rack is ideal for occasional hauling with moderate loads, but not for daily commercial use or extremely rough terrain.
- Moderate capacity for 2-3 bales
- Folds flat for storage
- Includes hitch pin and clip
Pros: Affordable price point; Folding design saves space
Cons: Thinner gauge steel; Some reports of weld failure
5. Shoof 1066 Hay Rack 66-Inch: Lightweight Option
The Shoof 1066 is an aluminum hay rack that prioritizes easy handling. At just 22 lbs, it’s simple to install and remove, and it never rusts. Owner feedback highlights its convenience for those who frequently remove the rack.
But aluminum’s lower strength means a maximum capacity of 120 lbs, and heavy bales can cause bending. It’s not suitable for large round bales or heavy loads. Best for light, occasional use with small square bales.
- Aluminum frame weighs only 22 lbs
- Rust-proof and easy to handle
- Slips into 2" receiver
Pros: Very lightweight; No rust concerns
Cons: Lower weight capacity (120 lbs); Aluminum bends under extreme load
6. Tarter Farm & Ranch Hay Rack 48-Inch: Budget Pick
Tarter’s 48-inch rack is the most budget-friendly option. It gets the job done for small loads and occasional use. We found many owners satisfied for the price, using it for a few bales on short trips.
However, the painted steel is susceptible to rust, especially in wet climates. The thin metal may warp under heavier loads. This rack is best for those on a tight budget with minimal hauling needs; skip it for regular or heavy use.
- Lowest price in our comparison
- Basic design for small bales
- Fits standard 2" receiver
Pros: Very affordable; Simple installation
Cons: Thin metal prone to rust; Small capacity (80 lbs max)
7. Equestrian Hay Rack 72-Inch Heavy Duty: High Capacity
This 72-inch rack from Equestrian is designed for large hay loads. With 14-gauge steel and a 350 lb capacity, it’s suitable for big bales or multiple small bales. The anti-rattle lock is a nice touch for quiet towing.
However, some owners noted that the bottom bars can sag under continuous max load, and a few mentioned sharp edges that needed filing. It’s a good choice for frequent heavy hauling, but inspect it upon arrival for finishing quality.
- Holds up to 350 lbs
- Reinforced bottom bars for heavy bales
- Includes anti-rattle hitch lock
Pros: High capacity for large loads; Anti-rattle design
Cons: May sag if overloaded; Some owners report sharp edges
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right size hay rack for my trailer?
Measure your trailer’s hitch receiver (usually 2 inches) and the available space behind the trailer. For small trailers, a 48-inch rack is adequate; for larger trailers, 60-72 inches offers more capacity. Also consider the weight rating of your trailer hitch.
Can I install a hay rack on a trailer without a hitch receiver?
Most hay racks require a 2-inch receiver hitch. If your trailer lacks one, you may need to weld or bolt a receiver tube. Some racks offer wall-mount options for trailers with solid sides, but these require drilling.
What is the best material for a hay rack: steel or aluminum?
Steel is stronger and more durable for heavy loads, but it’s heavier and can rust if not coated. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-proof but has lower capacity and may bend. Choose steel for heavy use, aluminum for occasional light loads.
How do I prevent hay from blowing out of the rack while towing?
Look for racks with sloped or enclosed sides. Some users add a mesh cover or netting. Towing at moderate speeds also reduces wind loss. Avoid overfilling the rack.
Are hay racks safe for towing?
Yes, when properly installed and not overloaded. Ensure the rack is securely fastened to the receiver and that the load is balanced. Check the hitch weight rating; a heavy rack plus hay can exceed tongue weight limits. Always use safety chains if applicable.
Our Verdict
For most trailer owners, the Tusco 72-Inch Heavy Duty Hay Rack is our top pick due to its robust build, universal fit, and strong owner satisfaction. If you need a more compact solution for a small trailer, the K&H Manufacturing Hay Saver 48-Inch is a reliable runner-up with its space-saving design and reduced waste.
