Iowa Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
Iowa oversees livestock transactions through the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. Iowa has one of the nation's largest livestock industries, particularly in cattle and swine. A written bill of sale is standard practice for horse and livestock transactions. Iowa requires Coggins testing for equines and has active disease surveillance programs. Iowa Code Chapter 163 addresses livestock disease prevention and control.
6%
Sales tax
No
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
Iowa Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in Iowa:
Important: Iowa Health Documentation
Iowa requires a current negative Coggins test for all equine change of ownership. Ensure your Coggins test is within the required timeframe before completing the sale. For interstate transport, both a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and negative Coggins are required.
What the Seller Must Provide
- Signed Bill of Sale: Complete bill of sale with animal description, sale price, and both parties' information
- Current Negative Coggins: EIA test within 12 months performed by an accredited veterinarian
- Registration Papers: Signed transfer section on breed registration certificate (if registered)
- Health Records: Vaccination history, deworming schedule, and veterinary records
- Disclosure of Known Issues: Any known health problems, lameness, vices, or behavioral issues
What the Buyer Should Obtain
- Signed Bill of Sale: Original copy with both signatures
- Coggins Test Certificate: Copy of the current negative Coggins report
- Registration Certificate: With signed transfer (if registered animal)
- Health Certificate: If transporting across state lines, CVI within 30 days
How to Fill Out a Iowa Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Iowa horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), Iowa mailing address, phone number, and email. If the seller is a licensed dealer or breeder, include the license or business registration number.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, farm or ranch name, Iowa address, phone number, and email. The buyer's location determines which local tax rates apply to the transaction.
Describe the Animal
Provide a detailed description: species (horse, cattle, goat, etc.), breed, registered name and number (if applicable), sex, age or date of birth, color, height (in hands for horses), weight, and all identifying markings, brands, tattoos, or microchip numbers.
Document Health Status
Record the Coggins test date and result (for equines), health certificate number and date, vaccination history, and deworming schedule. Attach copies of all health documentation to the bill of sale.
State Sale Price and Terms
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Note the payment method and any installment terms. State whether the sale is as-is or includes warranties (soundness, breeding, vice-free, etc.). Disclose any known health issues or behavioral concerns.
Sign and Complete Documentation
Both buyer and seller sign and date the bill of sale. Print two copies. Transfer breed registration papers by signing the transfer section. Ensure Coggins and health certificates are current. Complete any required brand inspections before transport.
Iowa Brand Inspection Requirements
Iowa does not require brand inspections and does not have a state brand board. The state's livestock identification relies on bills of sale, registration papers, premises identification numbers, and electronic identification tags. Iowa participates in the USDA's National Animal Identification System and promotes premises registration for livestock operations.
Iowa Health & Veterinary Requirements
Iowa requires a negative Coggins test within 12 months for equine change of ownership and entry to shows and events. Interstate imports require a CVI issued within 30 days and a negative Coggins for horses. Iowa has specific requirements for cattle including bovine tuberculosis testing for cattle from certain states. Swine entering Iowa must meet pseudorabies and brucellosis requirements. The Iowa State Veterinarian issues entry permits for all livestock entering the state.
Iowa Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in Iowa:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coggins Test | $20 - $40 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $25 - $60 |
| State Sales Tax | 6% (agricultural exemptions may apply) |
| Entry Permit | No fee |
| Brand Inspection | Not required |
Sample Iowa Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Iowa-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for Iowa livestock transactions.
STATE OF IOWA
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Iowa Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Iowa Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Iowa Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Iowa horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official Iowa Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your Iowa livestock transaction.
Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
Iowa State Veterinarian
Animal health, Coggins testing, and import requirements
USDA APHIS — Veterinary Services
Federal animal health regulations and accredited veterinarians
USDA — Interstate Livestock Movement
Federal requirements for transporting livestock across state lines
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Need a different type of bill of sale for Iowa? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Create Your Iowa Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
Answer a few questions and download your Iowa-compliant document in minutes. Includes Coggins test and health certificate fields.
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