Pig transport mortality, while low as a percentage, represents millions of pigs dying during transit annually due to stress, injury, and physiological vulnerability. Evidence-based strategies reduce this toll.
Transport mortality represents the most visible failure of pig transport welfare, but it represents the tip of a larger welfare iceberg. For every pig that dies during transport, many more experience significant stress, injury, or physiological compromise that doesn't result in death but does represent genuine suffering. A welfare-centered approach to pig transport addresses the entire welfare journey from pre-transport management (fitness assessment, appropriate withdrawal times) through vehicle conditions (temperature, ventilation, stocking density) to driving practice (smooth acceleration and cornering) and unloading (well-designed facilities, appropriate handling). Driver training investment has demonstrated measurable welfare and financial returns through reduced mortality and condemnation rates.