Mobile horse float servicing and repairs

Horse owners, riding schools, pony clubs, studs, trainers and competition riders, especially before events and long trips.

Charge a call-out fee plus labour and parts for repairs, or a fixed price for a standard service or safety check. Repeat yearly services and event-season rushes bring regular work.

• Mechanical or trailer repair know-how
• Basic welding and fabrication
• Understanding of horse safety and float design
• Reliable customer service

• Public liability and tools or equipment insurance, and ask whether your insurer covers work on customers' trailers
• Brake and coupling work is safety critical, so check what qualifications or certification your state expects
• Check your state's rules on trailer roadworthiness and modifications with your transport authority
• Heavy lifting and working under trailers, so use proper stands and safe practices
• Work is seasonal around events and the weather, so plan for quieter months

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $5,000 to $20,000, depending on tools, equipment and vehicle. Monthly revenue is estimated at around $2,500 to $10,000, depending on how many customers and events you service.

Brake and coupling work is safety critical, so check what qualifications or certification your state expects. Also check your state's rules on trailer roadworthiness and modifications with your transport authority, and whether your insurer covers work on customers' trailers.

Useful skills include mechanical or trailer repair know-how, basic welding and fabrication, and understanding horse safety and float design. Estimates suggest at least around 12 hours a week, and work can be seasonal around events and weather.