Transporting Horses

Recently the rules for transporting horses and ponies were revised. It’s important to know what you’re allowed to do so you don’t break the new rules! So the new rules are:

When you transport a horse with a horsebox or trailer you need to make sure you:

• have the right driving licence for the weight of your vehicle or trailer
• have an operator licence if you need one
• are qualified to transport horses if you’re travelling for over 8 hours
• follow the weight limits for your vehicle or weight limits for towing and do not overload your vehicle or trailer
• follow speed limits– horseboxes must follow the limits for goods vehicles
• carry out regular safety checks
• have a valid MOT for your vehicle or trailer
• follow rules on animal welfare

If you have a horse or pony you will need to know more detail about the rules. You can find out more here: