Starting Out as an Equine Freelancer

_{What to Charge, How to Find Clients & Build Your Reputation as an Equine Freelancer}

So you’ve been thinking about becoming an equine freelancer, maybe as a groom, yard helper, or general horse care assistant, but you’re not sure where to start. How much should you charge? Do you ask for payment per hour or per job? What happens if a client cancels at the last minute? And how on earth do you find your first clients without feeling like you’re “selling yourself”?

If you’re asking all these questions, you’re not alone. Many people who love horses think about working as an equine freelancer but feel unsure about how to turn that passion into paid work.

Let’s go through it step by step.

What Should You Charge?

One of the most common questions new freelancers ask is, “How much should I charge?”

Across many equine Facebook groups, you’ll often see £15 per hour mentioned as the average rate for general yard help or horse care. That’s a good starting point, especially if you’re doing things like mucking out, poo picking, turning out, and general stable duties.

If you offer specialised services, such as clipping, plaiting, competition preparation, or rehabilitation work, you can (and should) charge more. These skills require extra experience and precision, and clients understand that.

You can also offer set rates per job for certain tasks. For example:

Clipping a horse: £30–£150

Plaiting for a show: £25–£50

Travel groom for the day: £150 - £300

The above are average rates and are only a guideline.

The key is to know your worth and be consistent.

Should You Undercut Other Freelancers?

It might be tempting to charge less to win work quickly, but undercutting can do more harm than good.

While you might pick up a few short-term jobs, it can make other freelancers in your area frustrated and may affect your long-term reputation. Clients might also expect you to stay at that lower rate forever.

Instead, focus on value rather than price.

Offer a professional, reliable, and friendly service. Show up on time, communicate clearly, and take pride in your work; these are the things clients remember.

Adding a Unique Service

If you want to stand out, think about what could make your services unique. For example:

• Provide event day assistance for shows and competitions.
• Include social media help for small equine businesses (especially if you have marketing experience).
• Combine yard help with dog care if you’re happy to do both.

Adding a little twist or niche service can help you attract more clients who value your flexibility.

What About Travel Costs?

If you’re driving between yards or jobs, travel costs quickly add up; fuel, time, and wear on your vehicle.

You can:

• Set a radius (e.g., within 10 miles, anything beyond is charged per mile).
• Charge a travel fee, e.g., 45p–50p per mile beyond your local area.
• Offer block bookings for clients slightly further away to make it worthwhile.

Always agree on this in advance; clear communication avoids awkward conversations later.

What If a Client Cancels?

Last-minute cancellations can happen, but your time still matters.

Many freelancers have a cancellation policy, such as:

• 24-hour notice required; otherwise, 50% of the rate is due.
• For repeat cancellations, full payment may still apply.

Having this in writing from the start sets boundaries and shows professionalism.

How to Get Your First Clients

When you’re just starting out, it can feel scary putting yourself out there. If you don’t like “selling yourself”, remember you’re not selling; you’re helping.

Start with these steps:

Create a profile on TallyHOTemps.com

It’s free and connects you directly with horse owners and equine businesses looking for freelance help.

Word of mouth  

Let friends, riding schools, and local yards know you’re available.

Facebook groups often have specific “looking for freelance help” posts.

Post regularly on social media and share what you do, your availability, and photos of your work (with permission).

No Budget for Leaflets? No Problem.

You don’t need fancy printed materials to get started. Most clients find freelancers online now.

Instead of leaflets:

• Create a simple Instagram account.
• Post about your services, your availability, and your love for horses.
• Ask happy clients for short reviews or recommendations; they go a long way.

Starting as an equine freelancer can feel daunting, especially if you’re stepping into it for the first time. But remember, everyone has to start somewhere.

Be fair with your rates, stay professional, communicate clearly, and always show pride in your work. Your reputation will build naturally over time.

And if you’re not sure where to begin, your first step is easy;

Create your free profile on TallyHOTemps.com and start connecting with horse owners and equine businesses who need help like yours.

You don’t have to know everything from day one, you just have to start.

Join TallyHO Temps Today

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