Transport is one of the highest-risk welfare events for farm animals, and evidence-based standards for journey duration, stocking density, and rest stops significantly reduce suffering.
Transport welfare harms are acute and compounding: loading imposes fear stress, novel environments cause disorientation, vibration causes balance demands, and long journeys deplete physiological reserves. The cumulative stress of transport suppresses immune function, increases disease risk, and in severe cases causes death. Shorter journeys, appropriate rest stops with food and water, and welfare-trained handlers reduce harm measurably. The welfare case for the 8-hour limit is well-evidenced — extension beyond this without rest creates disproportionate welfare cost.