Transporting horses in the Netherlands: what you need to arrange

Which legislation applies to horse transport?

The transport of horses in the Netherlands falls under EU Regulation 1/2005, which applies to commercial transport as well as non-commercial transport whenever a journey exceeds 65 kilometres or takes more than 8 hours. Shorter journeys for personal use — such as a trip to a nearby riding school — are subject to slightly more relaxed rules, but minimum welfare requirements always remain in force. The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) actively enforces these rules, including on public roads. Commercial horse transport is subject to additional obligations such as a transport authorisation and certified drivers.

Documents you must always carry

Without the correct paperwork, you are not permitted to depart. Before every journey, check that you have the following:

• Horse passport (official identification document, required for every transport)
• Health certificate from a vet for cross-border transport
• Transport authorisation from the carrier for journeys over 65 km on behalf of third parties
• Animal health certificate (Form I.2) for export outside the EU
• Proof of UBN (Unique Company Number) registration for stables that regularly receive horses

Requirements for the trailer or vehicle

The trailer or lorry must meet minimum space requirements. According to EU Regulation 1/2005, a horse weighing an average of 600 kg is entitled to a minimum floor area of 1.75 m² for short transport, increasing for journeys longer than 8 hours. The floor must be non-slip and provided with fresh, dry bedding. Ventilation must offer adequate air circulation without draughts at animal level. There must be no risk of injury from sharp edges or protruding parts. Have your trailer inspected annually and keep the inspection certificates with the vehicle documents.

Rest, feed and water en route

• For journeys longer than 8 hours: at least 1 hour of rest after 8 hours of transport
• Every horse must have access to fresh water every 8 hours
• Feed (hay or roughage) must be offered every 24 hours
• In extreme heat (above 30 °C) provide extra ventilation and offer water more frequently
• Document rest and watering times in the transport logbook for long journeys

Transport logbook: when is it required?

A transport logbook is required for journeys longer than 8 hours and for all commercial transports, including shorter ones. The logbook contains departure and arrival times, intermediate stops, the horse's condition at departure and arrival, and driver details. Keep the logbook for a minimum of 3 years. Using EquiSight? Via the horse dossier you can store journey details, vet information and documents in a structured way, so that everything is quickly to hand during an inspection. EquiCoach can also help you compile a checklist based on your specific journey.

Practical pre-departure checklist

• Horse passport present and up to date (microchip verified)
• Horse not fed a heavy meal at least 2 hours before departure
• Trailer ventilated, clean and provided with fresh bedding
• First-aid supplies and emergency vet contact in the cab
• Route planned with rest stops for journeys over 8 hours
• Weather conditions checked: extreme heat or cold requires adjustments
• Destination stable or location informed of estimated arrival time