James Cargo Blog

Vehicle and Trailer Standards

Vehicles used in transporting sheep must meet strict technical and welfare standards.

Vehicle Approval

All transport vehicles must undergo inspection and receive Vehicle Approval Certification. Requirements include:

• Non-slip flooring
• Proper ventilation and temperature control
• Adequate lighting
• Escape routes
• Loading ramps at proper angles (no steeper than 26.5°)

Partitions and Space Allowance

Sheep must be transported in groups of similar size and age, separated by secure partitions. Space allowances are based on sheep weight:

• Up to 55kg: 0.2–0.3 m² per animal
• 55–100kg: 0.3–0.4 m² per animal
• Over 100kg: 0.4–0.5 m² per animal

Animal Welfare and Fitness to Travel

Protecting sheep health during transport is both a legal and ethical responsibility. Therefore livestock transporters should follow the welfare standards during sheep transport.

Fitness for Transport

Only sheep that are fit for transport may be moved. Sheep must be:

• Free of illness or injury
• Capable of bearing weight on all legs
• Not in late pregnancy (last 10% of gestation)
• Free of open wounds or prolapses

Feeding, Water, and Rest

Before the journey:

• Sheep should be fed and watered within 12 hours
• No sheep should travel more than 14 hours without a 1-hour rest with access to food and water

For journeys exceeding 8 hours:

• Scheduled breaks every 14 hours are mandatory
• Water must be readily available throughout the journey

Trust JCS Livestock for expert livestock transport services. We manage the entire process; customs, flight bookings, and welfare compliance, using temperature-controlled, GPS-tracked vehicles. Contact us today for reliable, stress-free livestock transport.

Preparation Before Sheep Moving

Thorough planning prevents delays and secures the animals’ well-being. Here is a simple preparation plan to follow:

Route Planning

All commercial sheep transports must include:

• Rest point planning
• Emergency contact points
• Avoidance of extreme weather conditions
• Backup routes in case of road closures or delays

Vehicle Cleaning and Disinfection

To prevent disease transmission, all vehicles must be:

• Thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before and after every journey
• Registered with a cleaning and disinfection certificate (especially for international journeys)

Documentation Required for Sheep Transport

You must carry and produce the following documents upon request:

• Animal Transport Certificate (ATC)
• Transporter Authorisation (Type 1 or 2)
• Certificate of Competence
• Vehicle Approval Certificate
• Journey Log (for long journeys)
• Livestock Movement License (dependent on country and region)
• Health Certificate (for cross-border movements)

Biosecurity and Disease Prevention

Disease control is paramount during sheep relocation. Note that:

• Animals are sourced from disease-free premises
• Vehicles do not mix sheep from different origins
• Footbaths and protective gear are used during loading and unloading
• Contact with other livestock species is avoided

Key diseases of concern:

• Foot-and-mouth disease
• Scrapie
• Bluetongue
• Sheep scab

Loading and Unloading Procedures

Efficient and humane handling minimises stress and injury.

Safe Loading Techniques

• Use non-slip ramps with side barriers
• Load animals in small manageable groups
• Avoid electric prods or shouting
• Ensure calm and quiet environment

Unloading Protocols

• Unload sheep as soon as the destination is reached
• Inspect each animal for injuries
• Document any issues or discrepancies

International Transport of Sheep

Cross-border sheep transport involves stricter controls, including:

• TRACES (Trade Control and Expert System) registration for documentation
• Compliance with specific import/export regulations
• Health certification from an official veterinarian
• Pre-export isolation may be required for certain diseases

Brexit Impact: UK exporters must note that:

• Export Health Certificates (EHCs) are obtained
• Importer in the EU is registered with TRACES
• Sheep meet EU animal health requirements

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Extreme Weather Conditions: Avoid transport during heatwaves or freezing temperatures. Use temperature-controlled trailers.
• Vehicle Breakdowns: Always have a backup plan and emergency contacts ready.
• Stress-Related Illnesses: Minimise noise and overcrowding; allow sheep to rest post-journey.
• Documentation Errors: Keep digital and physical copies of all required documents to avoid penalties.

Why JCS Livestock for Sheep Transport

We offer expert livestock transport services including sheep, ensuring safety, comfort, and full regulatory compliance at every stage. Whether you're moving a small flock or a large consignment, locally or internationally, our experienced team handles everything from logistics and paperwork to customs and quarantine.

Trust us to deliver your sheep efficiently and with the highest welfare standards.

Conclusion

Safe, legal, and humane transport of sheep for commercial purposes is not just a legal requirement, it's an ethical responsibility. From documentation and training to equipment standards and welfare protocols, every step must be executed with precision and care.

By following this guide, commercial sheep transporters can operate confidently, avoid costly penalties, and most importantly, protect the health and well-being of the animals in their care.

Recommended Reads:

• How to Ship Livestock Overseas?
• Cattle Moving and Transport Tips
• Livestock Transport to and from the UK