Transporting a horse from one location to another can be a complex and challenging task. There are various options available, each with its own advantages and considerations.
In this guide, we will explore five different methods of transporting horses: trailers, air travel, ships, horse moving services, and horseboxes.
Let’s get started.
1. Trailer
If you travel often and have means of attaching a trailer to your vehicle, then it may be worth investing in a trailer to transport your horse. They are going to be cheaper to insure than a lorry and the horse will be easier to load. You can also fit a few horses onto a trailer depending on the size of the trailer and the horses.
Trailers can however be unstable during travel and are risky if you have an accident. A trailer can also be difficult to drive if you aren’t used to hauling anything which can make it more dangerous for the driver. Bigger horses may also feel trapped inside of the trailer, making them stressed.
Your horse also won’t be able to sleep, so you will need to pull over and let your horse rest so that it has adequate time to relax in between the stressful move.
2. Air
Flying your horse is going to be the fastest way to get your horse from point A to point B. It does however cost quite a bit, and you should expect to pay between $2,000 and $10,000 domestically depending on the size of the horse and the distance traveled.
You are also required to travel with your horse which will add to the cost. It may not make sense to fly your horse if you are traveling only a few states away, but on such short notice, it can be your best option. It may come as a surprise, but FedEx specializes in the shipment of horses and cattle.
3. Ship
You’re not going to likely use a ship to transport a horse unless you’re moving overseas. Moving services may also be apprehensive to put a horse on a ship because horses are prone to sea sickness and they may not have the means to take care of an ill horse on a ship.
Another aspect to consider is that a horse is going to take a while on a ship to travel, and that means it will have to stay inside of its stall the entire ride. This can mean days when your horse is in a tiny space, which isn’t going to be ideal for its mental health.
4. Horse Moving Service
Instead of buying a trailer and worrying about all of the details, you can go with a horse moving service. A service like A1 Auto Transport will be able to transport your horse anywhere domestically (and overseas, but will drive up the price considerably).
If you are transporting more than one horse, you may be able to get a discount. A horse moving service is going to be your best choice if you have many tasks to complete during your journey and you don’t have the means of hauling your horse (or aren’t comfortable doing so).
5. Horsebox
A horsebox is a van or trailer specifically made for carrying horses. Horseboxes can be fairly expensive, but if you are traveling often with your horse, it may be a good investment for the long term. Your horses will also be more comfortable as they even will have windows for them to get fresh air during stops and feel less isolated.
Depending on where you live, you also won’t need a special license to drive your horsebox. You can also get a horsebox that has its own living space, so you can stay on the road without having to spend more on accommodations and sleep in rest areas between your trips.
Conclusion
When it comes to transporting your horse, there are several options to consider. Each method has its own advantages and drawbacks, and the choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and circumstances.
If you frequently travel and have the means to attach a trailer to your vehicle, investing in a trailer may be a cost-effective option. It allows for easier loading and can accommodate multiple horses, but it can be unstable during travel and requires careful driving skills.
Air travel is the fastest way to transport a horse, but it can be expensive, especially for shorter distances. If time is of the essence or if you’re facing short notice, flying your horse may be the most practical choice. Companies like FedEx specialize in shipping horses and cattle, providing professional services.
Ships are typically reserved for overseas transportation, as horses can experience sea sickness and may require special care. Additionally, extended periods in a confined space can impact a horse’s mental health, making this option less favorable for long journeys.
Horse-moving services offer a convenient solution without the need to worry about the logistics of transportation. These services can transport your horse domestically or even overseas, although the cost may increase significantly. It’s a suitable choice if you have multiple tasks to handle during your journey or lack the means or comfort in hauling your horse yourself.
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