September 17, 2009

USRider Advises Horse Owners of New Tire Tariff Impact

Lexington, Ky. (Sept. 17, 2009) – With the U.S. President’s proposed tire tariff, imported tires are going to cost more in the very near future. And while the tariff will be imposed on tires imported from China, many feel that the tariff will actually affect pricing on all tires.

On Sept. 11, President Barack Obama approved raising the tax on car and light truck tires from China by 35 percent the first year, beginning Sept. 26; 30 percent the second year; and 25 percent the third. The new tax will be in addition to the four-percent tariff currently in place.

According to CNN, from 2004 through the end of 2008, tire imports from China increased by nearly 300 percent (in terms of value) while domestic production of tires decreased by over 25 percent and about 4,400 jobs were lost in the domestic tire industry; additional shutdowns are expected to add another 2,400 losses in 2009. The domestic industry now has less than 50 percent of the U.S. tire market.

In light of the predicted price increases, USRider recommends horse owners consider buying new tires now to avoid the higher prices.

“While there is nothing inexpensive about owning Horses, if horse owners anticipate purchasing new tires in the next six to 12 months, they might want to consider moving up their purchase timeframe so they can beat the price increases,” said Mark Cole, managing member of USRider. With its Equestrian Motor Plan, USRider provides nationwide roadside assistance and towing services along with other travel-related benefits to its Members in the lower 48 states as well as Canada and Alaska.

Through its ongoing study of trailer accidents – conducted in conjunction with Dr. Tomas Gimenez, a noted expert in large-animal emergency rescue – USRider has determined that tire issues are the leading cause of disablements involving horse trailers and contribute to many wrecks. As a precautionary measure, USRider recommends replacing trailer tires every three to five years – even if they have low miles – due to dry rotting.

“Purchase from high-volume dealers, so you get ‘fresh’ tires,” added Cole. “Don’t buy tires that have been on the shelf for a year or two – or longer. Each tire has a manufactured date stamped on it – a reputable dealer should have no problem providing the date for you.”

Another helpful tip when purchasing new tires is to always request new valve stem. And, if valve stem is metal, have the valve core replaced as well.
Check to make sure you’re using the right type of tires. For example, never use car tires on a horse trailer. Horse trailers require heavy-duty tires that are designed especially for trailer use. These tires will have an ST (special trailer) designation.

For additional safety tips, visit the Equine Travel Safety Area on the USRider website at www.usrider.org.

USRider provides roadside assistance and towing services along with other travel-related benefits to its Members through the Equestrian Motor Plan. It includes standard features such as flat-tire repair, battery assistance and lockout services, plus towing up to 100 miles and roadside repairs for tow vehicles and trailers with Horses, emergency stabling, veterinary referrals and more. For more information about the USRider Equestrian Motor Plan, visit www.usrider.org online or call (800) 844-1409.