Cattle Trailers with a Center Divider: One Trailer, Two Compartments
Sometimes you need to haul two groups of cattle that can't ride together — a bull separated from cows, a mixed consignment headed to two different buyers, or animals that just don't get along in close quarters. A center divider solves that by permanently splitting the trailer interior into two separate compartments, front and back, each with its own load. Star Manufacturing builds cattle trailers with a fixed center divider on request, on the same 5/16" seam-welded frame and full hot dip galvanized finish as every trailer we build in Wharton, TX.
A center divider is a different feature from our slider gate trailers. Slider gates are movable interior gates used to adjust compartment size or sort cattle on the fly during a haul; a center divider is a fixed partition built into the trailer at a set point, permanently separating it into two compartments. Some operations order both — a fixed center divider for the main split, plus slider gates within one or both compartments for finer sorting.
Center Divider Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Configuration | Fixed center partition, bumper pull or gooseneck |
| Available Lengths | 20' to 40' (shorter trailers rarely have room to justify a permanent split) |
| Best For | Separating bulls from cows, mixed consignments, incompatible groups |
| Frame | 5/16" thick, 3x5 heavy angle iron, seam welded |
| Finish | Full hot dip galvanized |
| Compare To | slider gates (movable, for on-the-fly sorting) rather than a fixed split |
When a Fixed Divider Makes Sense
- Bull operations: Hauling a herd sire alongside cows or other bulls without a permanent barrier is asking for injuries. A center divider keeps him isolated for the whole trip, every trip.
- Sale barn and auction consignments: See our auction barn livestock trailers page — haulers moving lots for multiple consignors or buyers need a reliable way to keep groups apart.
- Order buyers and commercial haulers: Check our order buyer trailers page — a fixed divider is standard practice for anyone regularly combining loads from different sources.
- Rodeo and show stock: Separating bucking bulls from other stock, or keeping show animals apart from commercial cattle on the same trip, is easier with a permanent partition than trusting loose gates.
Built into the Frame, Not Bolted On
Because the divider is planned into the build from the start, it's laser cut and welded into the frame the same way the rest of the trailer is — not a bolt-on afterthought that can work loose. Combine it with solid side panels on one or both compartments if you're hauling animals that shouldn't see each other at all, or leave it bar top for maximum airflow to both sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a center divider to an existing trailer?
We build dividers into new trailers at the time of manufacture. Call our team to discuss options if you're working with an existing trailer.
Does a divider reduce how much I can haul?
It splits the interior into two compartments rather than reducing total capacity, though the two sides won't be perfectly equal in every length — we'll spec the split to match your typical load ratio.
Can I get both a center divider and slider gates?
Yes — many operations order a fixed divider for the main split plus slider gates within a compartment for finer sorting. Tell our team both requirements when you order.
How do I price a trailer with a center divider?
Use our online quote builder for a starting estimate, or call (979) 532-1486 to spec the exact divider placement with our team in Wharton, TX.
See the full lineup on our cattle trailers page, or contact us directly.