Are you looking for the best transportation options for your horse that won’t break the bank? Whether you’re preparing for an international competition or relocating, transporting horses is a major responsibility that comes with significant costs. If you’re wondering how much it costs to ship a horse, it’s essential to understand the horse transportation costs involved. This can have a significant financial impact on you as an owner, especially if you need to ship your horse overseas.
Transporting a horse involves a range of considerations, both logistical and financial. Personal experience has shown me that these costs can escalate further based on the size of the horse, the type of trailer used, and any specialized services like overnight stays or veterinary checks during transport. When I first needed to move my horse, I found it essential to obtain quotes from multiple transport companies to compare prices and services offered. This proactive approach helped me budget effectively and ensured my horse received safe and comfortable transport. While transporting a horse can be expensive, the assurance of professional care and the smooth transition to a new location makes it a valuable aspect of responsible horse ownership.
So, how much does horse transport cost? Costs for transporting horses can vary significantly depending on the destination, mode of transportation, and additional services like pre-flight tests. On average, hiring a licensed equine transport company can range from $0.75 to $3 per mile. For international transport by air, costs typically start at $2,000 and can exceed $10,000 for a one-way flight. According to the American Horse Council, these costs fluctuate based on factors like the horse’s size, the type of trailer utilized, and specialized services such as overnight stays or veterinary checks during transit (American Horse Council, 2023).
But what is the most cost-effective mode of transportation for your horses, and how much does horse transport cost? Additionally, how can you ensure that your horse will arrive safely? We’d love to help you find the answers in this article, so let’s dive right in.
How To Transport Horses
There are four ways to transport a horse; each method costs differently and has different advantages and drawbacks. Listed below are the most common ways to ship a horse.
Four Horse Transportation Choices:
Traveling via Airplane
If you must transport your horse overseas, airplane travel is the easiest and fastest way. Therefore, you have to work with companies specializing in equine transportation. A one-way international flight can cost around $2,000 to $10,000, but you can expect to pay more or less depending on your destination.
Horses travel through special cargo planes, usually placed inside a stall. No stewards or flight attendants are on a cargo plane; therefore, you must prepare food for yourself and your horse. You must also keep your horses hydrated and feed them little but often during long flights.
Transporting by Boat
If you can’t ship your horse through an airplane for some reason, traveling by sea can be an alternative. Before horses were transported via plane, boats were used to ship horses. However, like other animals, a horse can suffer from seasickness due to uncertain and changing sea conditions. And it can be more severe for horses due to their inability to vomit, leading to colic.
On top of that, transporting horses via boat can take a long time, and there are potential delays before you’re allowed to board the ship.
Traveling by Road
Since traveling by boat isn’t the best option, you can transport your horse by road instead. It’s a better choice, especially if you won’t need to cross an expanse of water to bring your horse to another country. Equine transportation companies typically charge $0.75/mile to $3/mile, and there are additional fees for layovers and extra care services for your four-legged companion.
Transporting via Rail
Another efficient way to transport horses is via rail, unlike traveling by road or sea, where the horse won’t be able to sleep and suffer from seasickness. Research has shown that horses are more likely to suffer from motion sickness when traveling by road than rail because the speed and direction of a railway are more progressive. This way, horses can nap and won’t have to rebalance themselves while traveling.
Average Cost of Transporting a Horse Internationally
Bringing your horse overseas via air can be more complicated than it may seem. You must consider the pre-flight bloodwork and testing fees and the mandatory quarantine period. The cost of transporting horses by airplane can range from $2,000 to $10,000 for just a one-way trip, depending on the destination locations and additional fees for some tiers of care and comfort during the flight. This is the most common mode of transportation for equines because it is a quicker and more comfortable option to transport your horse abroad.
The Process of Shipping a Horse Overseas
Transporting a horse overseas involves various processes, and each stage will cost you a lot. Here’s a quick guide to help you determine the cost.
Isolation
Before the exportation, horses need to be transported to a USDA-approved facility and isolated for 30 days, and it can cost you around $1,000 to $3,000.
Vaccinations and bloodwork
Exporting a horse requires additional bloodwork because it has to undergo a Coggins test to check if it has Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) antibodies. A USDA-approved veterinarian should do it, and costs approximately $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the horse’s age, gender, and other health issues.
Pre-boarding
Before boarding the flight, your horse will be transported to the airport, which must undergo an additional 5-hour quarantine. The cost will vary significantly depending on the distance from the isolation facility to the airport.
The Flight
During the flight, you must load your horse into an approved and inspected container, which you can rent for about $1,500. It would be best if you also got an attendant for your horse because it cannot travel alone. The shipping cost can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on your chosen airline and the destination.
So that’s what your horse has to go through before it gets exported across other countries. However, as mentioned above, it should be done correctly to avoid adverse effects on the horse’s health. Consider the following tips to ensure your horse will arrive safely.
Transporting a horse involves more than just moving it from point A to point B—it’s about ensuring their safety, comfort, and well-being throughout the journey. By understanding the factors influencing horse transport costs and choosing a reputable transporter, you can make informed decisions that benefit you and your horse. Always budget for potential additional expenses and prioritize quality and reliability when selecting a transport service. Proper planning and preparation allow your horse to travel safely and comfortably to their destination.
