Horse transport with a trailer requires careful planning, reliable equipment and calm driving. You must protect animal welfare and meet legal requirements for weights, securing and driving technique.
Planning and legal requirements
| Topic | Requirement | Practical tip |
|---|---|---|
| Registration documents and weights | Check total weight for car and trailer. See Car and trailer: registration and coupling weight. | Keep at least a 10 % margin for gear and water |
| Licence | Category B only applies if the combined permitted total weight is ≤ 3,500 kg. Read Trailer requirements for category B. | Consider code 96 or category BE for frequent transport |
| Technical checks | Brakes, lights, floor and tyres must be fault free. | Perform a technical safety check the day before departure |
| Animal welfare | The horse needs a passport, scheduled feeding and a calm environment. | Plan breaks every 3–4 hours with water and movement |
Preparing trailer and horse
- Ventilate the trailer and remove loose objects
- Cover the floor with rubber mats and an even layer of shavings
- Fit the horse with transport boots, tail guard and optionally a head guard
- Keep tie ropes, a safety knife and first aid kit within reach
- Note veterinarian contact details and emergency numbers for transport incidents
See Securing cargo and passengers for general securing methods.
Safe loading in five steps
- Prepare ramp and floor: Check grip and that the ramp is stable
- Lead in calmly: Use voice cues and long lead ropes, allow the horse to look inside
- Centre the position: Stand the horse mid-stance for even weight distribution
- Attach tie ropes: Use quick releases and ensure the horse can lower its head
- Secure the rear: Close breast and tail bars before the outer ramp
Avoid sudden movements and loud noises; check pulse and breathing before departure.
Driving and breaks en route
| Situation | Recommended driving technique | Action during stops |
|---|---|---|
| Starts and stops | Gentle throttle and progressive braking to avoid jerks | Inspect the horse and equipment after the first 10 km |
| Bends and roundabouts | Slow down early and take wide arcs | Check that bars and ropes remain tight |
| Motorway and overtaking | Keep steady speed and long following distance | Offer water, forage and ventilation every 3–4 hours |
| Hot or cold weather | Use climate control and stop more often to ventilate | Monitor trailer temperature and adjust openings |
For calm driving tips, read Defensive driving.
After the journey
- Lower the ramp carefully and hold the horse until bars are detached
- Back the horse out with steady voice commands and firm guidance
- Check the horse for cuts, heat spots and dehydration
- Clean and disinfect the trailer to reduce infection risk
- Update your log with travel time, breaks and any incidents