Q: Is the horse transporter properly registered and insured?

Commercial horse carriers must be registered with the DOT if they travel interstate (between states). Many states require carriers operating intrastate (within one state) to register with that state's Public Utility Commission. A properly registered carrier must meet stringent safety standards and carry liability and cargo insurance. Unless you contract with a properly registered carrier, your own horse insurance may not be valid.  

Q: Will my horse be transferred to another carrier mid-trip?

Since many carriers are regional, it is common practice to transfer an animal to another carrier during the trip if the horse is traveling a long distance. Since this must be arranged In advance, make sure you know what carrier(s) will be handling your horse, where any layovers (horse motels) are located, what the total charges are, and how you can contact the appropriate carrier(s) if need be. You should also supply your carrier with pertinent information such as your phone number, directions (to pick-up and delivery points, if necessary), emergency numbers, and phone numbers at destination.

Q: Cost considerations?

The rates charged for service are determined by several factors, including the amount of miles, stall space utilized, and the number of horses shipped. A larger stall will allow your horse more space for movement on long trips. Particular needs should be discussed with carrier. If you have the flexibility to travel at "carrier's convenience" (when he has other horses going to your destination), you may save money. Payment for services rendered is due when the horse is delivered to the carrier for shipment, unless credit arrangements have been made in advance. Owners of horses are responsible for payment of shipping charges if the person making the shipping arrangements fails to pay the carrier.

Q: To what services am I entitled?

Your carrier will supply the vehicle and the driver(s). He will not, unless requested or specifically included, supply an attendant, hay, fees, or bedding. Some carrier’s recommend and attendant, particularly if you are shipping young or fractious horses. You and your shipping agent should be prepared to load your horses. The driver will periodically (every 3 to 5 hours) stop and check the horses, offer water and refill hay nets. Any special feeding requirements or care if a layover is required should be discussed in advance with the carrier. Note: if a carrier supplies an attendant, at your request, you will be charged an attendant fee. If the carrier stops at a layover barn, you will be charges a reasonable and customary rate for the time your horse is in the barn. Likewise, if during shipment your horse requires veterinary or other medical attention, these charges will be passed on to you. Attempts will be made to contact you if your horse needs medical attention.

 Q: What health certificates are required?

Check with your veterinarian and/or carrier to determine what health requirements must be fulfilled prior to travel. A negative Coggins test is a must. The certificate is valid for not more than one year, or 6 months in Canada. It takes at least one week for the papers to be processed, so don't leave testing until the departure date. All states require a health certificate; these are usually good for a limited time, so have these signed (legibly) and dated as close to the departure date as possible. The driver must carry the originals, and you must maintain copies. Remember, health inspectors permit only originals or, in some cases, notarized copies.  

Q: Can I also send other horse paraphernalia?

If you are sending anything with your horse - a trunk for instance - make sure it is noted on the carrier's bill of lading so it will be off-loaded with your horse. (The bill of lading is your shipping contract and should be carefully read by you and your shipping agent.) Keep a record of the contents of the trunk, as your homeowners insurance may cover any loss. If you are sending buckets, lead lines or hay nets "loose" with your horse, try to make sure these are expendable; your carrier usually supplies these items for the trip, but check first. If you are sending quantities of hay and grain through "agriculture" states, you may have to demonstrate these are free of disease by producing invoices.  

Q: What if I have a "problem horse" that does not ship well?

If your horse is a problem shipper, tell your carrier. Make sure "studs" are removed from shoes prior to loading, since these pose a kicking hazard as well as being potentially damaging to van flooring which is there partially to protect your horse. Your carrier cannot administer drugs and will not wrap or rewrap your horse. If your horse has been given drugs, please inform your carrier. It's best if you can send an attendant with animals who require medication. Advise your carrier of all injuries and illnesses affecting your horse. These will be noted on the bill of lading.  

Q: Do I need insurance?

Properly registered carriers ship horses with minimal declared values to coincide with low shipping rates. The declared value for each horse should be noted on the carrier’s Bill of Lading. You may declare a higher value for the horse, but it will substantially increase the shipping rate. Make sure you inquire about the carrier’s declared value limitations. If it is not sufficient, contact your insurance agent in advance of shipping about insurance for the trip.