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The most inexpensive and common way to transport a horse, is in a single standing tie stall on a shared trip. A shared haul does require stops along the way and does take longer. This reflects in the price quote. Routes are as direct as possible and a travel plan is disclosed to clients.

A charter haul is a direct haul without stopping for other horses - only routine rest and fuel stops. You may require or prefer a charter for:

• import or export quarantine 
• client relocation to a new city
• group booking for an event
• racetrack moves
• emergency or vet clinic
• specific date
• geographical area outside regular routing

This is a more expensive way to go but can be the most practical depending on the circumstance.  

Partial charters are also available. Meaning clients can hop on a shared trip for part of the scheduled haul and then we can add a charter for the end (or beginning) to an off route location. 

Shuttle services are often charters that are meant to connect with another shipper. 

Often, rigs and larger trailers that cross country or throughout the U.S.A. do not leave their route. Therefore, the horse needs to brought closer to that route. Or sometimes another shipper needs help gathering or delivering horses.

A shuttle service can meet the other shipper to exchange horses or a layover facility can be used.

It is important to collaborate with other trusted transporters. If we can help each other, then we can help the client in a more streamline manner. Most of us have the same goal which is to keep any additional and unnecessary miles of the horses. 

Eastwind is always happy to refer and work with other shippers that practice similar business practices.

Eastwind is fortunate to have access to quality facilities that will house the horses on route if needed. 

Commercial shippers are allotted so many daily drive and on duty hours. It depends on where the truck departs from in the morning and how the day unfolds.

There are instances such as group bookings  for shows, race track moves, quarantine charters and shuttles where every effort is made to expedite the trip. 

Layover facilities are great for dropping off or picking up if timing does not work for meeting a client or fellow shipper. 

If you reside in BC, Alberta or Saskatchewan and have an overnight barn, please reach out with your information and what you offer! I am always on the lookout for more facilities to add to my book.

*Upcoming for 2024 Eastwind will have layover paddocks and shelters at homebase in Central Alberta

The health of the horse will be noted upon pick up. If I feel your horse is not healthy enough to travel, the horse will not be permitted to get on the trailer. There will be a 50% charge involved for having an empty stall on the trailer, so please ensure your horse is healthy. 

It is encouraged people to do their diligence and ensure vaccines are up to date in order to protect their own horse. It is a great idea to collaborate with your vet or trainer regarding preventive ulcer medicines prior to the trip. I have no problem administering to the horse. 

 
Virkon is used to sanitize the trailer. Keeping the equipment clean, is taken very seriously.   

It is normal for horses to not drink while being transported. Especially the first day. Water pails are suspended in front of the horses during rest stops. When very warm and if the horse is quiet enough, I will leave the pail in front of them during travel. During the trip, slow feed hay nets are available to each horse. I like the slow feeders as it keeps the horses busy and reduces the possibility of choking. I provide a grass mix with a very low alfalfa content (if any). Owners are welcome to provide their own hay - please let me know in advance. 1 bale may be sent.    

Avoid large amounts of grain prior to travel. It can be a good idea to feed a soupy mash with electrolytes prior to departure and upon arrival.  

• The truck and trailer is a combined length of 55 feet. Please disclose any difficult driveways, access roads and special instructions such as gate codes or nasty dogs

• There is a limit on gravel and rural side roads. Please disclose so we can discuss

• If your property or access road does not accommodate a large trailer and is too difficult, we may need to make an alternative arrangement. Loading or unloading on a quiet street, a neighboring property or meeting somewhere may be options.

• Please remember that your car, hay delivery truck, RV trailer and your friends 3 horse angle haul is much different then maneuvering a larger unit with axles set far back on the frame.

• For winter conditions, driveways and access roads should be plowed with turn around or access to back up. Please do not put me in a situation that puts the horses and my equipment at risk. Ice covered or muddy roads, hills and driveways present problems. 

My life before shipping horses, was the other side of this industry. 

As an EC English coach, I spent many years learning the horse industry from the ground...up. Eventually I owned and operated a successful horse boarding facility and riding school in Kamloops, B.C. In addition to my barn, I also co-owned an automotive collision center.

I understand the importance of providing a quality service and finding a good balance within being in business. Everything that I learned throughout my life and business adventures, I have carried over into transport. 

Horse transporters must be more then above average drivers - they must be educated and experienced horseman. We also must be organized, think quickly and conduct ourselves according to each situation given. 

The client plays an important role in the transport process by supplying the information required as honestly and thoughtfully as possible. If everyone is on the same page and have clear understandings ....shipping does not need to be stressful for clients and transporter alike.   

I hope my clients trust my experiences, knowledge and decisions. Communication and understanding is of the utmost importance for a successful working relationship. 

- Tanya