Michigan Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
Michigan regulates livestock health through the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). The state requires a negative Coggins test for all equine change of ownership and has comprehensive livestock import regulations. Michigan has a diverse livestock industry including horses, cattle, swine, sheep, and a growing alpaca and llama population. A written bill of sale is standard for all livestock transactions.
6%
Sales tax
No
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
Michigan Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in Michigan:
Important: Michigan Health Documentation
Michigan 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 Michigan Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Michigan horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), Michigan 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, Michigan 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.
Michigan Brand Inspection Requirements
Michigan does not have a brand inspection program or state brand board. Livestock ownership is documented through bills of sale, breed registration papers, and individual identification methods including ear tags, tattoos, and microchips. Michigan's livestock markets maintain consignment records for all animals processed through auction.
Michigan Health & Veterinary Requirements
Michigan requires a negative Coggins test within 12 months for all equine change of ownership, shows, sales, and events. Interstate imports of horses require a CVI issued within 30 days and negative Coggins. Michigan has a tuberculosis program for cattle due to the presence of bovine TB in the state's white-tailed deer population. Cattle entering Michigan must meet strict TB testing requirements. Michigan also monitors for chronic wasting disease in cervids.
Michigan Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in Michigan:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coggins Test | $20 - $45 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $25 - $65 |
| State Sales Tax | 6% |
| Import Permit | No fee |
| Brand Inspection | Not required |
Sample Michigan Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Michigan-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for Michigan livestock transactions.
STATE OF MICHIGAN
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Michigan Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Michigan Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Michigan Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Michigan horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official Michigan Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your Michigan livestock transaction.
Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
Michigan 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
Other Michigan Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Michigan? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Create Your Michigan Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
Answer a few questions and download your Michigan-compliant document in minutes. Includes Coggins test and health certificate fields.
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