You might already be aware of how to transport horses from a practical standpoint. If yes, then it’s great!
But are you well aware of the most feasible options to transport them legally and securely in the UK?
Well, there is a big difference between regular horse transportation and transporting horses in a way that is secure as well as legal.
If you are not aware of the safety and legal implications of horse transport, then you should make a point of learning before the next journey.
Today, we are going to discuss both the legality of horse transport as well as how to do it safely. We will share the necessary details like licensing, trailer and tow weight and taking the required actions to ensure horses are safe and secure. Without further ado, let’s begin with the licensing!
Key License Requirement for Horse Transport
It’s not legal for the majority of the drivers in the UK to transport a tow horsebox tailor to an HGV horsebox without the additional entitlement. The right kind of license depends on the kind of vehicle you drive and the weight and size involved.
In the first place, one needs to have a B-category license to transport horses within or beyond the UK. The law and regulations were changed in 1997 to account for tow vehicles of up to 4 tonners towing trailers in excess of 800 kg.
Any transporter who has obtained a Category B license is allowed to continue towing trailers within the specified weight limits without the requirement for any other license.
Otherwise, drivers need to get an additional license to sustain themselves in the horse transportation industry.
Category B+E- This category is entitled to drive a tow as heavy as 7 tonnes while towing a trailer of not more than 750 kg. These limitations are generally acceptable for single-horse tows and trailers no longer than the standard truck.
Category C1+E- It is the most well-known license among horse owners who use big trailers to carry multiple horses simultaneously. It enables tow vehicles heavier than 7 tonnes and trailers in excess of 750 kg.
Category C- This category is reserved for the biggest horsebox trailers and HGV horseboxes. So, if you are looking for this license, then you might require a Driver CPC card in the UK.
As we have already checked out, there is more to remaining legal than just being aware of how to transport horses safely and securely. There are obvious needs that require to be followed in regard to licensing. And if you want to get a license, you need to pass the trailer test. The test involves 2 parts: practical demonstration and driving skills.
Understanding Your Status as a Driver
Horse owners regularly participate in training events and show well-aware of how to transport horses safely and securely. However, there might be legal matters to worry about.
For instance, are you aware of the status of your driver? You need to be aware of any additional legal matters. Being an animal owner, this is very important to know all the legal and safety concerns.
Well, if your main source of earning is horse-related work, then you need to be sure that you have proper licensing. You might also need CPC training and certification along with your license. CPC training is intended for professional drivers who operate big vehicles. Be sure that you are aware of your CPC status by understanding your status as a driver.
Last but not least, you might require an operator’s license, if your horse-oriented activities constitute a business enterprise. The UK government releases a complete guide explaining all the information regarding driver status. You will find this on the UK.government site.
Maintaining The Safety of Horses
Understanding how to support horses also includes learning to maintain their safety and security. UK government laws require horse owners and their authorised agents to assure the welfare of any animal transport.
What is included in maintaining horse maintenance? Based on the UK laws and regulations, it includes:
- Maintaining tools and equipment in the well-functional order
- Maintaining the right loading and unloading facility to decrease the potential injury risk
- Assuring the competence of every animal handlers
- Offering water, food and rest as required
- Assuring horses are physically fit during the travel
- Keeping the journey as short as possible
Each and every area is covered in training programs specially developed to offer Driver CPC training for those who require it. It might or might not be incorporated into the regular training. We always recommended all horse owners undergo whatever training is required to make them familiar with these concepts.
This is all about how to transport horses legally and securely in the UK. If you have further queries or questions in your mind, then feel free to get in touch with a professional horse transportation service provider. For convenient and seamless horse transport, you can always opt for horsebox hire services.
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