Transport of Live Animals by Sea

Livestock vessels are specially designed and equipped to transport live animals over long distances while maintaining appropriate standards of animal welfare throughout the voyage. These vessels typically incorporate multiple livestock decks, ventilation systems, loading and unloading facilities, watering systems and other equipment intended to support the health and welfare of the animals during transport.

The maritime transport of live animals is governed by European legislation, internationally recognised animal welfare standards and the requirements of the competent veterinary authorities. International organizations such as the **World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)**, together with the European Union and national competent authorities, establish guidance and regulatory requirements aimed at safeguarding animal welfare and reducing the risk of disease transmission during transport.

Key animal welfare considerations include the continuous provision of feed and water, adequate resting conditions, suitable bedding, appropriate stocking densities, effective ventilation, temperature management, biosecurity measures and the assessment of animals' fitness for transport. Particular attention must also be given to pregnant animals, newborn animals, injured or sick animals, emergency situations and contingency planning throughout the voyage.

Transport of Live Animals by Sea

• Overview

• Regulations for the Maritime Transport of Live Animals

• Consulting & Regulatory Compliance (EU)

• Animal Welfare

• Veterinary Procedures

• The Institute provides professional expertise in the following areas:

• Vessel suitability assessments

• Compliance with Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/2419 and other applicable legislation

• Veterinary requirements

• Ventilation systems

• Water supply systems

• Feeding systems

• Animal accommodation areas

• Manure management systems

• Emergency contingency planning

• Animal welfare during maritime transport

• Preparation for official veterinary inspections

• Cooperation with competent veterinary authorities

Legal and Regulatory Framework

The maritime transport of live animals is governed by a combination of European Union legislation, national legislation, international standards and veterinary requirements.

The principal legal framework includes:

European Union legislation

• Regulation (EU) 2016/429 (Animal Health Law)

• Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/692

• Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/2419

• Other applicable European legislation governing animal welfare, transport and official controls.

International standards

Professional practice also follows internationally recognised guidance and standards published by:

• World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)

• Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

• International Maritime Organization (IMO), where applicable

• Competent national veterinary authorities

Competent Authorities

The competent authority responsible for veterinary supervision depends on the country concerned.

In Slovenia, the competent authority is the Administration of the Republic of Slovenia for Food Safety, Veterinary Sector and Plant Protection (UVHVVR).

Regulatory Compliance

Operators involved in the maritime transport of live animals are responsible for ensuring compliance with:

• animal identification and traceability requirements,

• veterinary certification,

• applicable animal health requirements,

• welfare requirements during transport,

• border control procedures where applicable,

• and all other relevant European and national legislation.

Transport of Live Animals by Sea

The maritime transport of live animals plays an important role in the global food supply chain, facilitating the international movement of livestock while supporting agricultural production and trade.

This section explores the principal aspects of transporting cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses and other live animals by sea, including the design and operation of livestock vessels, operational procedures, applicable legislation, animal welfare requirements and the practical challenges associated with maritime transport.

Transporting live animals is closely monitored by international organizations and various national agencies.

Animal Welfare

Animal welfare is a fundamental consideration throughout the maritime transport of live animals. It encompasses the physical health, physiological needs and behavioural well-being of animals from loading until final discharge.

Modern livestock vessels are designed with dedicated livestock decks, ventilation systems, water supply systems, feeding arrangements and other technical features intended to support animal welfare during long-distance voyages. Nevertheless, prolonged transport presents operational challenges that require continuous monitoring and effective management.

Nutrition, Water Supply and Rest

Continuous access to adequate feed, potable water and appropriate resting conditions is essential throughout the voyage.

Potential welfare concerns include:

• insufficient access to water or feed,

• inadequate positioning or malfunction of watering systems,

• overcrowding preventing access to resources,

• dehydration,

• prolonged fatigue,

• nutritional deficiencies.

These risks increase significantly during long voyages and periods of elevated ambient temperature.

Bedding and Accommodation

Suitable bedding and clean accommodation areas are essential for maintaining animal welfare.

Inadequate bedding management may result in:

• poor hygiene,

• slipping and injuries,

• discomfort,

• increased disease risk,

• prolonged standing on hard surfaces.

Accommodation areas should be maintained throughout the voyage to ensure acceptable welfare conditions.

Stocking Density

Overcrowding is one of the principal welfare risks during maritime transport.

Excessive stocking densities may lead to:

• trampling,

• injuries,

• restricted movement,

• inability to rest,

• increased heat stress,

• reduced access to feed and water.

Stocking densities should always comply with applicable legislation and recognised welfare standards.

Headroom

Livestock compartments must provide sufficient vertical clearance to allow animals to maintain a natural standing posture while ensuring effective air circulation.

Insufficient headroom may result in:

• prolonged discomfort,

• restricted movement,

• impaired ventilation,

• increased welfare risks.

Ventilation and Temperature Management

Effective mechanical ventilation is essential to maintaining acceptable environmental conditions throughout the voyage.

Ventilation systems should:

• provide continuous air exchange,

• remove excess heat and moisture,

• minimise harmful gases,

• maintain suitable temperatures whenever operationally possible.

High ambient temperatures combined with overcrowding or ventilation deficiencies significantly increase the risk of heat stress.

Fitness for Transport

Only animals considered fit for transport should be loaded.

Animals that are:

• seriously injured,

• clinically ill,

• unable to travel without suffering,

• or in advanced stages of pregnancy where transport is prohibited,

should not be transported.

If an animal becomes sick or injured during the voyage, appropriate isolation, veterinary treatment or, where necessary, humane euthanasia should be considered in accordance with applicable legislation and veterinary guidance.

Ethical Considerations

The maritime transport of live animals continues to receive significant international attention regarding animal welfare.

Professional operators should continually seek to improve:

• transport conditions,

• operational procedures,

• voyage planning,

• transparency,

• and welfare management.

Environmental Considerations

Livestock vessels, like all ships, have responsibilities regarding environmental protection.

Operational management should seek to minimise:

• atmospheric emissions,

• waste generation,

• sewage discharge,

• pollution risks,

• and the potential spread of animal diseases or invasive organisms.

Conclusion

The maritime transport of live animals remains an essential component of international food supply chains. At the same time, it requires the highest standards of professional planning, operational management, regulatory compliance and animal welfare.

Ensuring the welfare of animals throughout the voyage depends upon appropriate vessel design, competent personnel, effective operational procedures and continuous compliance with European legislation, international standards and recognised best practices.