How to Choose a Horse Transport Company

Hiring someone to move your horse means handing over an animal that cannot tell you what happened. The industry ranges from meticulous professionals to people with a trailer and a truck, and the difference is not always visible from the advertisement.

Verify the paperwork first

Ask for the USDOT number, proof of commercial liability and cargo insurance, and what the per-horse coverage limit is. A professional will have these ready. Anyone who treats the question as an insult has told you what you need to know.

What to look for

• A trailer in visibly good repair, with sound floors and safe dividers.
• A clear plan for water, rest and checks on long hauls.
• Willingness to give you updates en route.
• A written contract covering delay, injury and what happens if a horse needs a vet on the road.

Health paperwork

Interstate travel generally requires a current health certificate and a negative Coggins test. Requirements vary by state and change. Confirm with your vet well before travel rather than the night before.

Questions that separate professionals

How many horses travel at once? Who drives on a multi-day haul? What happens if my horse goes down in transit? The answers should be immediate and specific.

Frequently asked questions

What insurance should a hauler carry?

Commercial liability and cargo insurance covering the horses. Ask for proof, and confirm what the cargo limit actually is per horse.

Is commercial hauling regulated?

Interstate commercial transport is subject to federal requirements including USDOT registration. Ask for the number and check it.

How often should a horse be checked on a long haul?

Reputable haulers check horses at every fuel stop and offer water. Ask how many hours between checks and whether the horse is offloaded on multi-day trips.

Should I sedate my horse for travel?

Only on veterinary advice. Sedation can impair a horse’s ability to balance itself in a moving trailer.