The best time to teach a foal about float loading is while they're still small. Not because it's easier to force them in — but because a foal that learns the float is safe, before they've developed any anxiety about it, simply never develops that anxiety at all.
The foundation comes first
Before you go near a float with a foal, the early handling work needs to be done. The foal should be comfortable being touched all over, accept a head collar, and lead forward willingly. Without that foundation, float introduction will just add to the list of things they've learned to resist.
Assuming the groundwork is solid, you can begin float work much earlier than people typically think.
The cradle method for forward movement
With a helper holding the mare just a few metres away, position the foal so it's facing the mare. This is important — both animals stay calmer when they can see each other.
To teach forward movement, use a cradle position: one arm in front of the foal's chest, one arm behind the rump. Don't hold tightly. You're creating a gentle encouragement to move forward, not a restraint. Squeeze gently from behind and reward any forward step with a stop and a stroke.
This teaches the foal to move forward on cue — which is exactly the movement you'll need when it's time to walk up the ramp.
Introducing the ramp
Once forward movement is reliable, let the foal investigate the float from a distance. Don't rush it. Let them sniff the ramp, look inside, walk around it. A curious foal is a safe foal.
When they're comfortable near it, use the same cradle movement to walk them up the ramp. Keep the mare visible ahead. Stay calm — your energy absolutely transfers to the foal. The first time they step onto the ramp is a success worth rewarding properly, even if you don't go any further that day.
Building to the full load
Take it in stages. Walk up the ramp. Walk inside. Stand inside with the mare at the front. Close the back (with someone holding the foal, never tying them prematurely). Then move the vehicle slightly. Each stage is a separate lesson, each one building on calm acceptance of the last.
A foal that's been through this process before weaning will load as a weanling, as a yearling, as an adult horse. You'll never have a float loading battle, because the battle never had a chance to start.
The investment of a few sessions now prevents years of problems later. With horses, that's almost always the deal.