Star Manufacturing vs Hughes Trailers: Livestock Trailer Face-Off

Hughes Trailers has served the livestock community for years. But how do they compare to Star Manufacturing? Here's what cattle ranchers need to know before buying.

Built Different

Star Manufacturing cattle trailers are built on a 5/16" thick, 3×5 heavy angle frame — seam welded wherever possible. Every component is laser cut and precision-fitted (tabbed and slotted) for structural integrity that goes beyond standard welded fabrication.

The Galvanizing Edge

Star Manufacturing offers hot dip galvanized finishing — full submersion in molten zinc. This isn't a spray, a coating, or a marketing term. It's the gold standard of corrosion protection, and it means your trailer handles Gulf Coast humidity, salt air, and washdowns for decades without rust.

Hughes trailers come in painted finishes — quality work, but fundamentally limited in corrosion environments.

Features That Come Standard

• Enclosed light boxes (no exposed wiring)
• Interior load lights + rear work lights
• Heavy-duty Jost jacks
• Cut gates that swing both ways
• Double bows at every gate
• Cleated washout grates every 4'
• 10,000 lb tandem axles with electric brakes

Configure and Price Online

Star Manufacturing is one of the only cattle trailer manufacturers with a real-time online quote builder. Pick your size (14'–40'), width, finish, and options — see your price instantly.

Call (979) 532-1486 to learn more or visit us in Wharton, TX.