Make Sure You are Safe and Legal
Essential Guidelines for Horse Transportation
| Essential Guidelines for Horse Transportation When transporting horses using a horsebox or trailer, it’s imperative to: Possess the appropriate driving license corresponding to your vehicle or trailer’s weight. Obtain an operator license if it’s required for your situation. Be certified for horse transportation on journeys exceeding 8 hours. Avoid overloading your vehicle or trailer. Conduct routine safety inspections. Ensure your vehicle or trailer has a current MOT certificate. Adhere to animal welfare regulations. Driving License Requirements Ensure you hold the proper license category, which varies based on your vehicle’s size, type, and the date of your driving test completion. Online resources are available to verify the vehicles you’re authorized to drive. If operating a horsebox with a maximum authorized mass (MAM) exceeding 3,500kg, check if a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence is necessary. Operator License Regulations Anticipate new international road haulage regulations coming into effect in 2022, impacting those using cars with trailers, vans, or HGVs for transporting goods through Europe. Typically, an operator license is mandatory if you’re: Receiving compensation for transporting horses, whether directly or indirectly. Earning income from activities related to horse transportation, such as prize money. Utilizing horseboxes for professional purposes. However, an operator license is not required for non-commercial horse or goods transportation, like leisure activities. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) conducts frequent roadside checks and has the authority to seize vehicles lacking the proper operator license. Determining the Appropriate Operator License The license type you need hinges on your vehicle’s specifications, usage location, and the ownership of the horses. An operator license is essential even for occasional use of your vehicle in a professional capacity. Selecting the Correct Operator License for Horse Transportation Determining the appropriate operator license is contingent on the specifics of your vehicle, its operational geography, and the ownership of the horses being transported. Even brief commercial use of your vehicle, such as a single day, necessitates an operator license. Restricted License Requirements A restricted operator license is necessary if you: Operate a vehicle and horsebox trailer combination or a horsebox with a maximum authorized mass (MAM) exceeding 3,500kg. Are the owner of the horses in transit. Standard National License Criteria A standard national license is required if you: Utilize a vehicle and horsebox trailer combination or a horsebox with a MAM over 3,500kg. Are not the owner of the horses you’re transporting. Conduct horse transportation solely within the UK. Standard International License Necessities A standard international license is essential if you: Employ a vehicle and horsebox trailer combination or a horsebox with a MAM over 3,500kg. Do not own the horses you’re transporting. Engage in horse transportation beyond UK borders. Regulations on Drivers’ Hours Compliance with drivers’ hours regulations is mandatory if your horsebox or vehicle and trailer: Has a MAM of 3,500kg or more and is utilized for commercial purposes. Possesses a MAM of 7,500kg or more. To adhere to these rules, you must: Observe the drivers’ hours regulations applicable to goods vehicles. Implement the use of a tachograph. Drivers’ hours regulations are not applicable if your horsebox or vehicle and trailer has a MAM under 7,500kg and is used for non-commercial activities, such as leisure. Qualifications for Horse Transportation Ensure you possess the necessary qualifications for the transportation of horses. Vehicle Maintenance for Safety Given that horseboxes and trailers are often used sporadically, it’s crucial to remain diligent with vehicle maintenance. Establishing a routine for regular checks is a sound practice to keep your horsebox or trailer roadworthy and safe. Proper vehicle upkeep is fundamental to safe transportation. Guidelines for Horsebox and Trailer Maintenance For horsebox owners, it is mandatory to secure an annual MOT test. Pre-emptive maintenance checks by a certified mechanic can significantly increase the likelihood of passing this test. Regular inspections of components prone to wear and tear are also advisable to avoid potential enforcement actions during routine checks. Horsebox Floor Inspection: It’s crucial to examine the horsebox floor regularly, as deterioration can occur beneath mats or plates, going unnoticed. Daily HGV Checks: For larger horseboxes, daily walkaround checks are recommended to ensure the vehicle’s roadworthiness. Key Areas to Inspect: Internal stalls Partitions Breast bars Loading ramps Compliance Requirements: Adhere to the weight restrictions applicable to heavy goods vehicles. Observe the speed limits designated for goods vehicles. Follow the specific guidelines for transporting passengers in sizable coach-built horseboxes. Safety Protocols for Horse Trailers When towing a horse trailer with a car, conducting safety checks is essential. This includes examining: Internal stalls Partitions Breast bars Loading ramps Regular Trailer Inspections: It’s important to routinely check your trailer for any signs of damage, including the floor, which may degrade under coverings. |