Animal movement

Page updated on: 11/08/2023

Certain licensing requirements for movement of animals are still in operation following the foot and mouth movement regime.

We can advise you on the current licensing requirements, or you can check out the DEFRA (Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) website.

Any movement of livestock, other than pigs, on to a farm will invoke a 6-day standstill on further movements off that premise (except to slaughter and certain movements of breeding animals). When pigs are moved on to a farm, it invokes a 20-day standstill.

Moving pigs, sheep and goats

It is the responsibility of the destination keeper to notify us within three days of the movement being completed. All movements including those within pyramids and to slaughter must be notified.

The white copy of the form can be posted or scanned and emailed to us.

Moving cattle

The British Cattle Movement Service (BCMS) must be informed of cattle movements within three days.