Starting a horse business
How to start a farrier business
You can trim and shoe. Now you want your own name on the truck. Going out on your own as a farrier is less about the hoof work, which you already know, and more about running the business around it. Here's the order to do it in.
Get your training and experience in order
Most farriers learn through a farrier school, an apprenticeship, or both, and many go on to earn certifications from farrier associations. Certifications aren't required everywhere, but they build trust with new clients and vets. List every one you hold on your website and cards.
Set up the business side
Decide whether to run as a sole proprietor or an LLC, get an EIN if you need one, open a business bank account and talk to an insurance agent about liability coverage for working on other people's horses. Rules differ by state, so check your state's website or ask an accountant.
Set your prices and your area
Find out what farriers near you charge for trims, a full set and corrective work, then decide where you sit. Decide how far you'll drive and whether you'll charge a farm call fee or offer haul-in appointments. A tight route saves hours of windshield time every week.
Make your truck and your name work for you
Your rig is a rolling billboard parked at every barn you visit. A clean logo and a door sign with your name, phone and website turn every appointment into an ad. Matching business cards make it easy for barn managers and trainers to pass your name along.
Get found online
Horse owners ask around, then they search your name. Make sure they find a real business: a simple website, a Google Business Profile with your service area, and a clear way to request a visit. See what every horse business website needs.
Build your route
- Introduce yourself to vets, trainers and barn managers in your area. They get asked for farrier names all the time.
- Ask happy clients for reviews and referrals.
- Post your work: clean trims, before and after (with the owner's OK), a day on the road.
- Make it easy to book. A request form that asks how many horses, where and whether it's a farm call or haul-in saves a round of phone tag.
Want it done for you?
Our business package for farriers builds your website, logo, card and truck sign designs, a 90-day marketing plan and your Google profile, with a step-by-step guide to set it up in your own name.