Good horse transportation is vital to a horse’s health and well being. Owning a horse that requires you to transport them across the country or shorter distances should be taken seriously. Many horses can suffer injuries when being hauled incorrectly or for long periods of time without proper attention.

Whether you have a race horse or just need to transport your riding horse its best to find a company that is reputable if you can’t haul them yourself. Many people who own a horse also own equipment to transport them between ranches or shows. If you don’t own the necessary equipment there are companies that can transport your horse or horses.

There are different ways of transporting the horse; it could be by land using vehicles made for animals; it could also be by water using ship; or by air using an airplane. Whatever type of transportation you would need to transport your horse, always make sure that the company you will hire or pay for has all the license and permit to legally carry and do this kind of service.

To ensure the welfare and the comfort of your horse while in transport, check the transporting company that you are going to hire. Make sure that they are legally permitted to do this kind of service under the licensure of United States Department of Transportation.

Personally check the facilities and the vehicle they will use to transport the horse. Know every detail of the transportation, especially the condition of the horse inside their equipment.

It’s always good to ask what items you can ship with your horse, a blanket and a halter are considered standard items, and additional items may cost extra and be at the choice of the driver. You as the shipper are required to disclose any information that will benefit the drivers, failure to do so may void your paperwork. Health papers are also required before a horse transporter will pick up.

When choosing a carrier make sure they are legally licensed to haul, private or not they need to be operating under the (US DOT) United States Department of Transportation. If your horse will be traveling long distances ask what kind of transport they will be in. If it’s a goose neck trailer the trip shouldn’t be over 3 hours, this will cause pressure on the horse’s joints.

There are air-ride trailers available for long hauls so check to make sure which kind of trailer your horse will be riding in. If you ask a company general questions and they can’t answer them to your satisfaction then consider any company. You want your investment to be treated with care, choose a company that cares about your horse as much as you do.

Tags: Horses