So, you’ve found your dream horse. The price is right, the temperament is a perfect match, and now… you’ve just got to get them home.
Easy, right?
Well, here’s the deal: shipping a horse can come with way more costs than you might expect. It’s not just gas money and a trailer. From layovers to health papers, little things add up—and fast.
Let’s take a look at the hidden costs of horse shipping so you can budget smart and avoid last-minute surprises.
Base Fee ≠ Final Price
Most transporters will give you a base rate. It might be something like $1.50 to $3.00 per mile depending on:
- Distance
- Region
- Size of the trailer
- Number of horses
That sounds simple enough, but here’s the catch—that’s just the starting line.
Transporters often don’t include extras in the quote, or they list them in the fine print. You’ll want to clarify exactly what’s covered before you book.
Layovers & Overnight Stabling
If your horse is traveling a long distance (think cross-state or cross-country), they may need to stop overnight.
That means layover stabling, which often costs $50–$100 per night. Some haulers include it, but others expect you to cover it separately.
And don’t forget: layovers can also mean more time in transit, which can stress your horse—so it’s a welfare concern as well as a cost one.
Health Certificates & Coggins Test
Most states require health documentation for transported horses:
- Coggins test: Proof your horse is negative for Equine Infectious Anemia (~$30–$60)
- Health certificate from a vet (~$40–$100)
You’ll need these even for in-country travel, and definitely for crossing state lines. If your horse is coming from a seller, ask who’s paying for this up front.
Insurance (Yes, You Might Need It)
Think your horse is covered automatically in transit? Think again.
Some commercial haulers carry liability insurance—for themselves, not your horse. If something happens in transit, like an injury or colic, you could be on the hook for vet bills or worse.
For peace of mind, consider a short-term horse insurance policy that covers transit. Some insurers offer trip-specific coverage, especially if you’re buying a high-value horse. Not sure what’s covered or how much it costs? This guide to horse insurance breaks it all down so you can decide if it’s worth adding to your budget.
Additional Fees (The Sneaky Stuff)
Here’s where things get interesting. Some haulers charge extra for things like:
- Blanketing during travel (especially in colder months)
- Special handling if your horse is hard to load or needs extra attention
- Last-minute cancellations
- Waiting time (if loading takes too long)
- Second horse discount that disappears if one buyer drops out
It adds up quick. Always ask for a full breakdown in writing.
Hidden Costs If You’re the Seller
If you’re selling a horse and shipping is part of the deal, you might be expected to:
- Pay for a pre-shipping vet check
- Provide updated vaccinations or deworming
- Arrange and cover costs for a safe holding area before pickup
Some sellers also include partial shipping in the price of the horse. If you’re doing that, be sure to work it into your sale budget.
Buyer or Seller: Who Pays?
This varies. In private sales, shipping is often negotiated:
- The buyer typically covers full shipping.
- In a competitive sale, a seller might offer free or discounted shipping.
Whatever the case, agree up front. Put it in writing. Miscommunication can turn a smooth sale sour.
Final Thoughts
The price of your horse is just part of the cost. Getting them home safely and legally? That’s a whole separate checklist.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or transporting for another reason, factor in these hidden costs:
- Layovers
- Paperwork
- Insurance
- Handling fees
It’s the difference between being prepared—or being surprised.
And if you want to get an accurate read on how much your horse is worth (before tacking on transport)?
Try the Horse Price Calculator. It’s quick, free, and built just for buyers and sellers like you.
