Thinking about moving a horse across state lines—or just across town? Whether you’re buying a horse or selling a horse or anything in between, transportation is a cost many new owners don’t think about until it’s time to load up.
Let’s break it all down. In this simple guide, we’ll explain the different ways you can transport a horse in the U.S. and how much each method typically costs.
Hauling Your Own Horse: Trailer Ownership Costs
If you plan to transport horses regularly, you might want your own trailer. But trailers aren’t cheap.
- Used trailer: $3,000–$8,000
- New trailer: $8,000–$25,000+
- Truck capable of towing: $25,000–$60,000
You’ll also need to factor in fuel, registration, maintenance, and insurance. If you break it down per trip, hauling your own horse might cost $1–$2 per mile, depending on gas prices and distance.
Pro tip: Don’t forget safety gear—like trailer cameras, mats, and emergency kits.
Hiring a Professional Horse Hauler
For longer trips or if you don’t own a trailer, you can hire a pro.
- Short trips (under 100 miles): $150–$400
- Medium trips (100–500 miles): $1.50–$2.50 per mile
- Long-distance (over 500 miles): $1.10–$1.80 per mile
Most haulers have a minimum fee, often $300+, even for short hauls.
Prices depend on:
- Distance
- Number of horses
- Whether it’s private or group hauling
- Type of trailer (box stall vs slant load)
Ask about overnight stays, layovers, or extra fees for loading help.
Note: Be sure they’re USDA licensed and have strong reviews.
Group vs Private Hauling
- Group transport is cheaper. Your horse shares the ride with others. Less flexibility but more budget-friendly.
- Private transport is more expensive but gives your horse the whole space and more direct service.
Expect private hauling to cost 25%–50% more than group hauling.
Fuel and Time for DIY Hauling
If you’re doing the driving:
- Factor in gas (horse trailers can cut MPG in half!)
- Add costs for overnight stays (some horses need layovers)
- Plan for toll roads or permits
- Don’t forget your time—long trips are exhausting
Also consider if your trailer is rated for the distance and road conditions.
Extra Costs to Watch For
These are easy to miss:
- Health certificate & Coggins test (often required for state travel): $50–$150
- Emergency roadside service: For trailers, this can be a lifesaver
- Blankets, hay nets, water: Keep your horse comfortable on the road
- Overnight layovers: If your horse needs rest, you might need a horse hotel ($20–$50/night)
How to Save on Horse Transport
- Plan ahead—last-minute trips cost more
- Book with haulers going your direction anyway (shared routes = lower costs)
- Ask your barn or trainer—they may know reliable haulers
- Rent a trailer for occasional use (around $50–$150/day)
Real Example
Let’s say you’re buying a horse 400 miles away. You don’t own a trailer, so you hire a hauler:
- Cost: ~ $1.75/mile x 400 miles = $700
- Add $100 for health papers and fuel surcharges
Total: $800 for a safe, insured, and professional move.
Final Thoughts
Horse transport can be simple—or a serious cost. Whether you haul yourself or hire a pro, understanding the numbers will help you plan smarter.
And if you’re trying to figure out what a horse is worth before you even ship it, check out our Horse Price Calculator. It gives you a real-world estimate based on breed, training, and more.
Because before you spend hundreds (or thousands) to move your new best friend—you want to make sure they’re worth the ride.
