How do you transport live animals in agribusiness value chains?

1 Choose the right mode of transport

Depending on the type, size, and number of animals, as well as the distance and duration of the journey, you need to select the most appropriate mode of transport. This could be road, rail, air, or sea transport, or a combination of them. Each mode has its own advantages and disadvantages, such as cost, speed, availability, safety, and environmental impact. You should also consider the infrastructure, regulations, and standards of the origin and destination countries.

2 Prepare the animals and the vehicle

Before loading the animals, you need to prepare them and the vehicle for the trip. This includes checking the health and fitness of the animals, providing them with adequate food and water, and marking them with identification tags or microchips. You also need to ensure that the vehicle is clean, disinfected, well-ventilated, and equipped with proper loading ramps, partitions, bedding, and emergency kits. You should also plan the route, schedule, and stops in advance, and avoid extreme weather conditions.

3 Follow the loading and unloading guidelines

Loading and unloading are the most stressful and risky stages of animal transport. You should follow the guidelines and recommendations of the relevant authorities and organizations, such as the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Some of the general principles are to use gentle handling methods, avoid overcrowding or underloading, secure the animals properly, and monitor their behaviour and condition during the process.

5 Comply with the legal and ethical requirements

Transporting live animals is subject to various legal and ethical requirements, both at the national and international levels. You should comply with the laws and regulations of the origin and destination countries, as well as the transit countries if applicable. These may include obtaining permits, certificates, or licenses, reporting to the authorities, undergoing inspections or quarantine, and paying fees or taxes. You should also respect the animal welfare standards and codes of practice, and avoid any cruelty or abuse.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?