Hay crates, also known as hay boxes or hay feeders, are an essential tool for transporting, storing, and feeding hay to horses and livestock. Their sturdy wooden construction allows hay to be easily moved around the farm or stable. Many hay crates come with metal or plastic handles on the sides for easy lifting and carrying. While hay crates are rigid and sturdy by design, some models feature folding or collapsible attributes for convenient storage when not in use.
The Benefits of Foldable Hay Crates
Foldable hay crates provide a number of advantages over traditional fixed crate designs:
- Save space – Foldable crates can be collapsed down when empty, taking up far less room for storage.
- Easy to transport – Collapsing crates makes them quicker to load/unload and transport in trucks or trailers.
- Convenient handling – Folded crates are easier to carry and maneuver by hand.
- Versatile – Some foldable crates can double as feed troughs when opened up.
- Lower shipping costs – Foldable crates take up less space, reducing transport costs.
Considerations with Foldable Hay Crates
While foldable crates have their perks, there are a few things to keep in mind when using them:
- Durability – Folding joints and hinges may be vulnerable to wear and tear over time.
- Weight limits – Foldable crates typically have lower weight capacities than fixed wooden crates.
- Time investment – Folding and unfolding the crates takes extra time versus fixed crates.
- Stability – Foldable crates may be more prone to racking or distortion when loaded.
- Weather resistance – Long term exposure to rain, sun and snow can degrade folding components.
Foldable Crate Construction
Foldable hay crates come in a few different designs, but most work on a basic collapsible principle:
- Side panels – The four vertical side boards fold inwards along hinges or sliding joints.
- Bottom – Some crates have a fixed bottom panel while others fold down flat.
- Top rails – The top frame pieces fold down in the middle to allow side collapse.
- Hardware – Hinges, sliding locks, and metal support plates enable the folding.
When unfolded and locked into position, the crate regains its rigid box shape for loading. Well-built foldable crates use rugged hinges and hardware to handle frequent folding while still supporting heavy stacking loads when locked.
Popular Foldable Hay Crate Brands
Several equipment manufacturers offer folding hay crates suited for equine needs:
| Brand | Model | Capacity | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smith Hay Company | Folding Hay Crate | 6-8 hay bales | 59 lbs |
| Lewis Hay Company | Collapsible Hay Crate | 4-6 hay bales | 68 lbs |
| EquiTrailer | Portable Folding Hay Crate | 4-5 hay bales | 49 lbs |
When shopping for a foldable crate, look for sturdy pivot joints, thick side panels, and heavy duty hardware to ensure it will hold up to repeated use. The type of hay bales being stored will also determine the ideal size and capacity.
Using Foldable Hay Crates
Here are some tips on using foldable hay crates effectively:
- Unfold the crate fully before loading it with hay. All side locks should be engaged.
- Load bales in a staggered pattern to distribute weight evenly and prevent racking.
- Do not overload beyond the crate’s recommended capacity.
- When stacked, align crates vertically and interlock bottom and top lips.
- Fold up empty crates flat to minimize storage space.
- Check hinge pins and hardware periodically for wear and replace as needed.
- Consider covering folded crates outside to protect from weathering.
Hay Crate Alternatives
For those looking for a non-collapsible hay storage option, here are a few alternatives:
Plastic Hay Crates
– Molded polyethylene or polypropylene construction
– Resists weather, moisture, and wear
– Lightweight yet durable
– Ventilated to allow airflow
– Easy to sanitize and keep clean
Metal Hay Racks
– Galvanized or powder coated steel
– Rugged, corrosion resistant
– Range of capacities
– Integrated handle designs
– Can mount to walls or fences
Hay Bags
– Woven polypropylene or nylon
– Softer alternative for horse feeding
– Maintains air flow while containing hay
– Portable and hangs anywhere
– Not ideal for transporting hay bales
Key Takeaways
- Foldable hay crates offer versatility and space-saving storage when not in use.
- Look for crates with sturdy hardware and thick, reinforced sides to handle frequent folding and heavy loads.
- Proper loading technique and weight limits help prevent distortion or breakdown.
- Routine inspection and maintenance preserves performance and durability.
- Plastic crates, metal racks, and hay bags provide alternative non-collapsible options.
Foldable hay crates can be a convenient option for stable owners needing to efficiently transport and store multiple bales. Paying attention to quality construction and appropriate use will ensure the crates provide reliable service season after season.