South Carolina Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
South Carolina regulates livestock health through a unique partnership with Clemson University's Livestock-Poultry Health Division, which serves as the state's animal health regulatory agency. The state requires Coggins testing for equine transactions and has active livestock health enforcement. South Carolina has a growing equine industry, particularly in the Aiken and Camden areas which are major equestrian centers. A written bill of sale is standard.
6%
Sales tax
No
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
South Carolina Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in South Carolina:
Important: South Carolina Health Documentation
South Carolina 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 South Carolina Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your South Carolina horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), South Carolina 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, South Carolina 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.
South Carolina Brand Inspection Requirements
South Carolina does not have a brand inspection program or state brand board. Livestock ownership is documented through bills of sale, breed registration papers, and standard identification methods. South Carolina's equestrian community, particularly in Aiken (known as the horse capital of the South), relies on breed registrations and veterinary documentation.
South Carolina Health & Veterinary Requirements
South Carolina requires a negative Coggins test within 12 months for equine change of ownership, shows, and events. Interstate imports require a CVI issued within 30 days and negative Coggins. Clemson University's Livestock-Poultry Health Division manages import permits and entry requirements for all livestock. The warm climate makes EIA prevention important. Cattle must meet brucellosis and tuberculosis requirements for interstate movement.
South Carolina Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in South Carolina:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coggins Test | $20 - $45 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $25 - $65 |
| State Sales Tax | 6% (plus local taxes up to 3% additional) |
| Entry Permit | No fee |
| Brand Inspection | Not required |
Sample South Carolina Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our South Carolina-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for South Carolina livestock transactions.
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [South Carolina Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [South Carolina Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
South Carolina Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about South Carolina horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official South Carolina Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your South Carolina livestock transaction.
South Carolina Department of Agriculture
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
South Carolina State Veterinarian (Clemson University)
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 South Carolina Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for South Carolina? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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South Carolina Firearm Bill of Sale
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South Carolina General Bill of Sale
Furniture, electronics, and personal property
South Carolina ATV Bill of Sale
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South Carolina Mobile Home Bill of Sale
Manufactured and mobile homes
Create Your South Carolina Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
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