Livestock transport is a major welfare stress point affecting billions of animals annually. Regulatory standards vary significantly between countries, with journey times, vehicle design, and handling practices all influencing welfare outcomes.
Livestock transport welfare is one of the most complex policy challenges in farm animal welfare because of the international dimensions: animals transported across borders face multiple regulatory frameworks, enforcement gaps, and logistical challenges that compound welfare risks. The UK post-Brexit journey time restrictions for slaughter animals represent significant welfare progress, demonstrating that political will can translate into meaningful welfare improvement against industry opposition. The global picture is much more varied, with billions of animals transported under minimal regulation in many countries. Consumer choices that reduce demand for products requiring long-distance transport, and advocacy for international harmonization of transport welfare standards, are the most impactful available interventions.