Horse hauling ?'s?

Question

Hello,
I've finally decided that I want to start a local horse hauling business.
Only traveling in Louisiana.
I have the truck and trailer and of course very experianced with horses and hauling them as I have done for myself for many years traveling to horse shows :)
Anyway I was hoping someone could tell me about all the documents and anything else that I would need? Like is there a specific hauler's license I should get?
And what should be my rate? I know it varies according to gas prices but is there a standard?
Any information that you can give me would be great!
thank you

Answer 1

Agreed on the liability insurance! If you have the horse/horses on your property for 24 hours sometimes your barn insurance will cover the liability of shipping, as you have had care & control of the animal(s).

Most haulers charge by the mile. If you vary the rate as the price of gas goes up & down that will scare some people off, as they want consistency. It helps to plan if you know what the cost is going to be.

Answer 2

I'm not sure about the hauler's license for any trailer, but I know you have to have a license if you plan on driving an eighteen wheeler horse trailer. Also, you should make up a release form of some sort for the owner of the horse being hauled to sign so, if anything happens to the horse (even if it wasn't your fault) you cannot be sued. I hope this helps, good luck!

Answer 3

There are some other things to take into consideration. The condition of your truck and trailer. What type of trailer is it? Slant load, does it have a ramp...etc...etc...etc...The liability insurance for the animals that you will be hauling. Unfortunately most horses do have a price on them and if you injure or harm them in any way, it's probably going to go up. The liability insurance will pay for itself with the first incident. If I were you, I'd widen my coverage area. Go to parts of Arkansas(where I'm from, lower Arkansas to be exact), Texas, Mississippi. Most people who have horses are willing to haul them short distances, within a state on their own, so that doesn't leave you with a very big market. As for the rates, call around and get the rates of similar services, and place your rates in line with those. Other than that advertise, advertise, advertise!

Answer 4

Hauler's license call your state dmv... as far as rates, just get on the phone and get 4 or 5 quotes to go from a to b in the area you want to work, and you'll get a good idea pretty quick how much to charge.

Get insurance to cover the loss of any animal you are hauling, and have the owner declare a value on the shipping paperwork.
Put right in the papers you have the right to refuse any animal that appears ill, unfit, or is not managable, to keep your sanity and your money. :)

Answer 5

Don't forget to be insured. I don't mean car insurance, but also insurance of the livestock. I'd pity the person that didn't have insurance and injured - lets say my horse! most horses are priceless to a owner. Wish you the best. Don't be low on your price. Quality care is priceless!