Long-distance liveweight transport of cattle — including intercontinental sea voyages — raises profound welfare concerns. Sea voyages of 3–5 weeks expose cattle to heat stress, rough seas, respiratory disease, and traumatic injury. Mortality rates on liveweight export voyages average 0.1–0.5%, representing tens of thousands of animals annually. Australia suspended liveweight exports to several Middle Eastern markets following welfare investigations. The EU limits road transport to 8 hours (24 with rest) and has proposed banning liveweight exports outside EU borders. Welfare science identifies journey duration, stocking density, feed/water access, temperature, and handler training as primary variables. Electronic monitoring systems provide real-time welfare data during transport. Alternatives include chilled/frozen meat exports, which eliminate transport welfare concerns entirely.