Mobile farrier round
Trim and shoe horses at local yards and homes on a regular round, using a van-based forge.
- £4k-15k
- Part-time
- Out and about
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in the UK, not guarantees.
What it is
Visiting horses at livery yards, farms and private paddocks to trim hooves and fit shoes, usually every 4 to 8 weeks. You work from a van carrying a portable forge, anvil and tools.
Your first three steps
- Check the Farriers Registration Council website for the route to becoming a registered farrier and how to find an Approved Training Farrier
- Spend a few days shadowing a local farrier to see the work, the hours and the physical demands first-hand
- Talk to local yards and equine vets about demand, typical prices and which areas are already well covered
Who pays
Private horse owners, riding schools, livery yards and small competition or leisure yards.
How it makes money
Price per horse for a trim or set of shoes, with extra for remedial or specialist work. Several horses at one yard make each trip more worthwhile.
Skills that help
- Confident and calm around horses
- Practical metalworking and hoof care
- Physical fitness and stamina
- Reliable, with good people skills for owners
Watch out for
- Shoeing is legally restricted to registered farriers in the UK, so check the rules with the Farriers Registration Council before taking any paid work
- Qualifying takes an apprenticeship over several years, so check how you would support yourself while training
- Public liability insurance, and check whether you also need cover for your tools and van
- Injury risk from kicks and back strain, plan your workload and take care of your body
- Weather, cancellations and late payers can make income uneven, so consider upfront payment terms
🔒 Full research report for UK
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start as a mobile farrier?
Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £4,000 to £15,000, depending on your van, portable forge, anvil and tools, and insurance. Qualifying takes an apprenticeship over several years, so check how you would support yourself while training.
How much can a mobile farrier earn?
Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £2,000 to £6,000, depending on the size of your round, the work you take on and your pricing. Weather, cancellations and late payers can make income uneven.
Do I need to be registered to work as a farrier in the UK?
Shoeing is legally restricted to registered farriers in the UK, so check the rules with the Farriers Registration Council before taking any paid work. Also check public liability insurance, and whether you need cover for your tools and van.
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