Safety tips

• See the horse in person. Always view a horse before you buy. Photos and videos can hide a lot.
• Get a vet check. Arrange an independent pre-purchase vetting with a vet you choose — not one suggested by the seller.
• Ride or handle before buying. Try the horse yourself, and watch the seller handle and ride it too.
• Be wary of deals that seem too good. A valuable horse priced far below market value is the classic sign of a scam.
• Never pay a deposit before viewing. Avoid sellers who pressure you to wire money, pay a “shipping company,” or use gift cards or crypto for a horse you haven't seen.
• Confirm ownership and paperwork. Ask for registration papers, passport/microchip details, and a written bill of sale.

• Describe the horse honestly. Accurate listings build trust and avoid disputes — note any vices, injuries, or limitations.
• Watch for payment scams. Beware of buyers who “overpay” and ask for a refund of the difference, or send a fake payment confirmation. Wait until funds have actually cleared in your account.
• Meet safely. If a stranger is coming to view, have someone with you and arrange viewings in daylight.
• Use a written agreement. A simple bill of sale protects both sides and records what was agreed.

For the horse itself, a bank transfer made afterthe funds have cleared, or payment on collection, is usually safest. Avoid irreversible methods like gift cards, wire-transfer services, or cryptocurrency with people you don't know. Keep a record of every payment.

Note: payments you make to Horse Trade Market (such as featuring a listing) are handled securely through Stripe. We never handle the money between a buyer and a seller — those arrangements are made directly between you.

Be cautious if someone:

• Refuses to talk on the phone or let you view the horse
• Has a story about being abroad, military, or unable to meet
• Pushes you to pay quickly or “before someone else does”
• Asks for payment via gift cards, crypto, or unusual services
• Sends generic photos that appear elsewhere online

If you see a suspicious listing or someone behaving dishonestly, please let us know. Your reports help keep the marketplace safe for everyone.