Shipping horses is a necessary part of the equine industry. Whether you are transporting horses for racing, breeding, competition, or for sale, you will likely need to use a professional horse shipping company. One of the most common ways to ship horses is by air, and it can be a costly endeavor. One of the most common questions asked when it comes to air shipping horses is, “How much does it cost to box six horses?” In this article, we will discuss the various factors that affect the cost of shipping six horses, as well as provide helpful tips for getting the best rate and ensuring a safe journey for your horses.
Factors Affecting Cost
When it comes to shipping horses, cost is always a primary factor. The cost of shipping six horses will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and weight of the horses, the distance to be traveled, and the season.
Horse Size and Weight
The size and weight of the horses will have a direct impact on the cost of shipping. Larger horses will require larger and heavier boxes, as well as more fuel to transport them. Heavier horses will also require more fuel and may require additional staff to help manage the loading and unloading of the horses.
Distance
The distance to be traveled is another factor that will affect the cost of shipping horses. Longer distances will require more fuel and may also require the horses to be transported in multiple legs of the journey.
Season
The season may also affect the cost of shipping horses. During the summer months, when temperatures are higher, horses may require additional cooling measures, such as fans or air conditioning, to ensure their comfort. During the winter months, when temperatures are lower, horses may require additional heating measures, such as heated blankets, to keep them warm.
Helpful Tips for Getting the Best Rate
When it comes to shipping horses, cost is always an important factor. Here are a few helpful tips for getting the best rate:
Compare Rates
The best way to ensure you are getting the best rate is to compare rates from multiple horse shipping companies. Make sure to compare the same services and ask questions about any additional fees or charges.
Use a Professional
When it comes to shipping horses, it is always best to use a professional horse shipping company. They will have the knowledge and experience to ensure your horses are transported safely and on time.
Book Ahead
Booking ahead of time is another way to ensure you are getting the best rate. By booking ahead, you can often get discounted rates for early bookings.
Ship in Off-Peak Times
Shipping during off-peak times can also help you get the best rate. Shipping during the weekdays, when flights are less crowded, can often be less expensive than shipping on the weekends.
Ensuring a Safe Journey for Your Horses
Shipping horses is not only expensive, but it can also be stressful for the horses. Here are a few tips for ensuring a safe journey for your horses:
Use a Professional
As mentioned above, using a professional horse shipping company is the best way to ensure a safe journey for your horses. A professional company will have the experience and knowledge to ensure your horses are transported safely and on time.
Prepare the Horses
Preparing the horses for shipping is also important. Make sure the horses have been properly groomed and have been given the appropriate vaccinations. Additionally, make sure the horses have been loaded into the transport boxes correctly and that they have enough bedding and food for the journey.
Choose the Right Box
Choosing the right box for the horses is also important. The box should be large enough for the horses to stand comfortably, and it should be well-ventilated and equipped with safety straps.
Follow the Rules
Finally, make sure to follow the rules of the horse shipping company. Each company will have its own set of rules and regulations, so it is important to be familiar with them before shipping the horses.
Conclusion
Shipping horses is an expensive endeavor, but it is also a necessary part of the equine industry. When it comes to shipping six horses, the cost will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and weight of the horses, the distance to be traveled, and the season. To ensure you are getting the best rate, it is best to compare rates from multiple companies, use a professional horse shipping company, book ahead of time, and ship during off-peak times. Finally, it is important to prepare the horses for shipping, choose the right box, and follow the rules of the horse shipping company to ensure a safe journey for your horses.
Shipping horses is a necessary part of the equine industry and can be a costly endeavor. When it comes to shipping six horses, the cost will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and weight of the horses, the distance to be traveled, and the season. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure you are getting the best rate and that your horses have a safe journey.