Homestead Alpaca Transport Q & A's
Homestead Alpaca Transport uses a variety of vehicles depending on the distance, number of animals and client needs. All methods carry your alpacas safely and in comfort. Our largest trailer has excellent ventilation and is equipped with electric for fans, AC and heat as needed. Security lights and surveillance cameras help keep a constant eye on the animals. Rubber kick boards and floors provide additional protection and a fold down ramp allows for easy loading and unloading. Secure partitions are used to separate males and females or to divide by age groups. All vehicles are power washed and disinfected after each trip to assure the utmost cleanliness,
How do I request a quote?
Click on the QUOTES tab above. Complete the form and submit.
How do I reserve a spot on a specific trip?
Once you accept our quote, click on, complete and submit the contract page.
How do I make my payment?
A 50% down payment is required using a Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover or Paypal.
What happens if I change my mind after I fill out the contract?
Please let us know immediately. As these are not private transport routes and schedules and quotes often depend on the number of clients, we do not refund deposits. If we go to your location and your animals do not travel, you are responsible for the full amount.
Who do I contact if I have a question?
Call the contact numbers on the web site. Office hours are from 10-5 Monday thru Friday and a cell phone is also available. If there is no answer, please leave a message and we will get back to you.
What documents are required for my animal to travel?
Each state has their own requirements. Please check what is needed for your area. ALL animals must have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) which includes proof of a negative BVD test, as well as a copy of the animals ARI.
Will I be contacted before pickup or delivery?
Yes. You will receive an APPROXIMATE day on our first call, a 24-48 hour notice on our second and a 2 hour "heads up" as we get closer.
What time are animals delivered?
Animals are delivered between 6a.m. and 12 midnight. As we do not want animals to be in the trailer any longer than necessary, we depend on everyone's flexibility with the hours so we can stay in route. It is the contracted client's responsibility to assure that all pick up and drop off locations are aware of this. Any delay as a result of not being able to work within this schedule will result in a $50.00 fee for the contracted client.
How long will my animal be in the trailer?
This depends on the distance and scheduled route. Every effort will be made to get them there in an efficient manner but clients are reminded that this is NOT private transport and routes will not necessarily be direct. No animal, regardless of the distance, will be scheduled to be in the trailer more than ten days. (Coast to Coast situations)
Will my animal be given medicine if needed?
Unless there is an emergency, we do not administer medicines in route. If an emergency does occur, every effort will be made to contact the owner to determine the best course of action.
Are males and females separated in the trailer?
Definitely. There are several strong, steal divisions for that purpose.
What is the cut-off date for pregnant females to travel?
We have delivered dozens of cria but....we encourage every breeder to plan ahead and, for the safety of the female, not transport in the last 60 days of pregnancy. We are not responsible for lost pregnancies due to travel.
What about cria at the side?
They are welcome on all transport but are considered an additional traveler and should be marked as such on the contract.
What will my animals be fed in the trailer?
Animals will have access to pure orchard/brome hay and a continual supply of fresh water. To avoid reactions to food changes, animals are not given grain.
Can I send supplies with my animals? (fiber,ribbons,etc.)
Space is limited so it is first come first serve basis. If you have a specific request, please contact us ahead of time.
How are my animals cared for during inclement weather?
Trailers are well stocked with additional hay/water in case of unexpected issues, as well as electrical units to allow for proper heating and ventilation in all weather.
Do I need to have halters on my animals?
Animals need to be haltered and ready upon arrival. Once on the trailer, halters can be removed if preferred. We will use our own halters for drop offs.
Will I have contact with the driver during transit?
Although the driver may not be able to use the phone at all times during route due to reception or safety, the phone number is provided. A contact phone for the home base is also listed on the web site for use during all trips.
Is the transport a direct route?
Unless you have requested private transport, it will NOT necessarily be a direct route and other animals will be traveling. Flexibility in pick up and drop off times is expected.
What happens if the vehicle or trailer breaks down?
Although vehicles are serviced before every trip, unforeseen break downs can and do occur. In such cases, rest assured that your animals will be well taken care of. The trailer carries additional food and water for such delays and every attempt will be made to stay in touch with the contracted parties.
Can a trip be cancelled?
Although this would be unusual, if there is insufficient interest in a particular route, or if unforeseen circumstances require us to cancel a trip, all customers will be informed immediately and will receive a FULL refund of all payments made.