Reminder - changes to animal transport authorisations

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is reminding animal transporters that the process for renewal of type 1 transporter authorisations has changed.

Authorisations are now no longer renewed automatically. Type 1 transporter authorisations are required for those transporting animals, as part of an economic activity, on journeys over 65 km (approximately 40 miles) and up to 8 hours in duration.

Transporters involved in economic activity include farmers, livestock and poultry hauliers, and those who move horses in connection with professional riding, livery and stabling.

In order to comply with EU animal transport regulations, animal transporters must submit an application to renew their authorisation. Failure to do so risks heavy penalties if transporters found to be operating without valid authorisation.

Applications to renew animal transport authorisations should be submitted to APHA’s Welfare in Transport team by post, email or fax.

Renewal application forms and information on how to obtain electronic copies of the renewal application are available on GOV.UK.

Transporter authorisations are valid for five years, and as a significant number were renewed in 2012 a large number are due for renewal in 2017.

Transporters are urged to check their current authorisation documents which have the expiry dates printed on them, and apply for renewal at the earliest possible opportunity, to ensure their continued authorisation.

Transporters with queries about type 1 transporter authorisation renewals should contact the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.