A Horse Transporter is involved with the safe movement of horses and ponies between stables, as well travelling to shows, events and races. The Transporter will need to be comfortable around and know how to handle horses
There are various jobs that include transporting horses, these include Grooms, Yard Managers and Riders. There are also opportunities to become employed as a Horse Transporter for a transportation company or run your own Horse Transport business
Horse Transporters will work around 40 hours a week but may work longer on occasions. There may be early mornings, late nights and weekend working. Part-time, seasonal and casual work is often available.
You may be required to travel around the country as well as oversees, so long periods away from home may be required.
There are a variety of qualifications and training courses that can help you:
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find employment
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improve your current skills
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gain promotion
If you have passed your driving test after December 31st 1996 you have to take a course and Driving Standards Agency (DSA) test to drive any vehicle above 3.5t in weight. You will also have to take a course and DSA test if you wish to tow a trailer behind a vehicle (B+E licence).
Horsebox & Trailer Training
Types of Licence
There are three main licence categories which horse transporters are required to gain, these are based on the size and style of the horsebox.
B+E' Licence - this is required to tow a single horsebox behind a normal car.
C1 Licence' is required to drive a purpose built horsebox of no more than 7.5t in weight (fully loaded).
HGV Cat C Licence' is required to drive a purpose built horsebox that weighs more than 7.5t, loaded or unloaded. If you gain your 'Cat C Licence' you will automatically be entitled to drive any of the licences mentioned above.
Horse Transportation Certificates
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A certificate in equine transport(CET) for short journeys of more than 65km and up to eight hours
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An advanced certificate in equine transport (ACET)for those involved in journeys of more than eight hours
There is also a requirement to have valid 'Transporter Authorisation' (forms available from DEFRA) and, if travelling horses on journeys over 8 hours, must ensure that their vehicle(s) has been inspected and approved by DEFRA
Apprenticeship
To transport horses full-time or as part of a Groom’s role you will need to have Horse Care knowledge and experience. An Apprenticeship and an Advanced Apprenticeship may provide this. There are no set entry requirements for these Apprenticeships. You just need to be living in England and not taking part in full-time education. Apprenticeships are open to all age groups (above 16yrs) whether you are just leaving school, have been working for years or are seeking to start a new career.
Further information on Apprenticeships in Equine can be found on the Apprenticeship website.
Further relevant qualifications include:
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BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Horse Management
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BHS Stage 1, 2 and 3 Horse Care
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Foundation Degree in Equine Management
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A Diploma in Work-based Horse Care (previously NVQ) Levels 2-4 are also available
These qualifications can be obtained 'on the job' as they include workplace assessment.
Read more about all types of qualifications available in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Know what course you want? Search for a training course with Lantra’s CourseFinder.
With experience and relevant qualifications it is possible to progress to transport horses professionally (self employed). This will require some considerable financial commitment as suitable horse boxes would need to be purchased.There may be the opportunity to transport horses internationally. This would require further licensing, for more information go to http://www.vosa.gov.uk/.Those working for an equestrian establishment may progress to more senior positions. The career structure will vary depending on the size of the organisation. It may be necessary to seek opportunities with an alternative employer in order to progress.
You can find out about other progression opportunities in this industry here