jesika ·
Updated November 12, 2024
A long trip or move can be stressful for you but even more nerve-wracking when your beloved equine is the one being transported. There are many factors to consider, like how much does it cost to transport a horse, if horse transport is safe, and if you can or should do it yourself vs hiring someone else.
Due to the high level of proficiency required, hiring experts can be a safe option when you need to get your horse across a significant distance or through several states.
When you’re wondering where to start and what options to consider with horse transportation, preparing beforehand can make the process more efficient and better for your horse. Whether you’re planning domestic or international transit, keep your horse and yourself prepared by knowing all the details.
Factors to Consider
When you’re considering transporting your horse, there are many factors to consider. From food and water to extra medication in case your horse gets anxious are all necessary to take into account.
When you’re hiring professional transporters to handle the process for you, you will only need to consider extra details like treats and equipment to go along with the horse.
If you’re hiring professionals, you need to ascertain beforehand what route they will be taking to your destination. Many horse transporting services give you the freedom to map out the course and plan any breaks needed for your horse’s comfort as well.
Whether To Do It Yourself or Hire Professionals
Depending on the distance you need to travel, you may be tempted to transport your horse without the help of an expert. Moving a horse without a trailer can be challenging, especially when your alternative is a moving truck that’s not suited to horse transportation.
Horses also tend to be poor travelers, mainly due to their sensitivity and large size. Lack of proper ventilation and light can also end up unnerving your horse and give them significant stress throughout the trip.
Renting a horse trailer can cost anywhere from $60 to $180 a day, depending on where you live and where you’re traveling. Hiring professional services can cost more, but also provide your horse with better services.
If you’ve never traveled or attempted horse transportation yourself, it’s better not to do it at all. Your horse can have developmental issues or be a victim of physical injuries when transportation isn’t done correctly.
Transporting a horse requires significant expertise and proper equipment, like a horse trailer, bedding, food supplies, and planned layovers. When you entrust this job to a professional service like CitizenShipper, you don’t have to worry about the horse transportation process itself but just the necessary preparations beforehand.
Extra Services Available
Owning a horse is no cheap endeavor, and when you’re planning on transporting them across a great distance, you need to ensure they have the best services available. From optimal food to bedding, everything needs to be catered towards the horse’s comfort.
With professional transporters, you may be able to find extra services like Pet Protection Coverage, which gives you peace of mind and your horse added protection while they’re traveling.
Background checks, routes, and transportation details are also crucial to know when booking horse transportation services. Knowing the difference between a horse shipping service, horse trailer transport service, and other transport methods is also ideal to look into when you’re paying for premium transportation for your horse.
Horse Transport Modes
Horses are usually transported through the following methods:
- Ship
- Horse Trailers
- Air
Depending on what distance the horse needs to be transported, the cost structure will be different. Horse transportation tends to be cheaper when they’re being transported by road as compared to by ship or air. You can also opt for horses to be transported for longer distances by getting a commercial hauler.
Ideally, you will need to book your horse transportation services as soon as you know your horse needs to be transported. The later you end up booking, the more expensive it will be.
By booking ahead of time, you also have time to look into different transportation and services available. Many people wonder how much does it cost to ship a horse, and it can end up costing anywhere between $1.50 to $3.00 per mile, depending on how long the journey is.
Type of Move You Need
Where you’re traveling and what kind of journey logistics you’re planning can also play an essential role in your overall costs. If you’re traveling for an equestrian competition and will need to travel both ways for the horse, you might find a round trip package deal with a transportation service.
Transporting a horse for long distances will require a professional driver who knows exactly how long each layover needs to be and whether your horse requires anything during these layovers. You can also pay extra to have a professional animal handler along for the trip.
Shipping a horse requires extensive planning that should include bedding, food, water, and any medications needed to keep your horse calm. Know what kind of move you need before you start contacting any transportation service.
Documentation Needed
Before you book your horse shipping service, you need to know what documentation will be required by the service and at the destination. You will need to check beforehand if a Coggins test is required by the state where the horse will be traveling.
The horse will also require a health certificate approving travel within 30 days after the certificate has been issued. The place of residence of the horse and the expected destination will also be clearly mentioned on the health certificate.
You can also check with the transportation service and your vet regarding what kind of health regulations and documentation are required for your horse before travel starts.
Need Horse Transporting Services? We Can Help
To ensure your horse the most comfort during their transportation, trust the expert verified transporters at CitizenShipper. From keeping you updated about your horse’s condition to providing optimal resting time, rest assured your horse will reach its destination happily. We provide transparency so you know what shipping a horse costs.
You can find out how much it costs to transport a horse and other details related to horse transportation when you reach out to us on our website! Get an instant transportation quote to start planning for your horse moving process.
nice info