Protecting animals during transport

The European Commission is committed to ensuring the welfare of animals during transport, not only inside but also outside the EU. This commitment is rooted in the conviction that animals are sentient beings and that their treatment during transport must reflect ethical, scientific and societal expectations.

Key goals include:

• reducing stress and suffering during long journeys
• improving transport conditions for vulnerable animals
• ensuring enforcement of EU rules through digital tools
• protecting animals exported to non-EU countries.

These efforts are part of the broader EU strategy to align animal-welfare legislation with the latest scientific evidence, technological advancements and public concerns.

Current legislation

The ‘basic’ acts that establish the framework for these policies are:

• Regulation 1/2005 – protection of animals during transport and related operations
• Regulation 2017/625 – official controls on food and feed, animal health and welfare, plant health and plant protection products

They are enforced by ‘implementing’ legislation such as Implementing regulation 2019/723 – standard model form for Member State annual reports.

2023 to present: Legislative proposal

In December 2023, the Commission adopted a proposal to amend Regulation 1255/97 and repeal Regulation 1/2005. The new regulation would:

• limit long journeys and reduce repetitive unloading
• increase space allowances for transported animals
• protect animals from extreme temperatures
• improve transport conditions for vulnerable animals
• use digital tools (such as GPS tracking) to enhance enforcement and reduce paperwork.

The proposed regulation:

• is based on scientific opinions from EFSA and a comprehensive impact assessment
• was submitted for public feedback (summary).

Proposal for a regulation – protection of animals during transport & related operations (COM/2023/770 final)

In June 2026, the European Commission published a study on digital modalities of animal welfare during transport. The study explores digital solutions to replace outdated paper-based systems, including the use of positioning systems and the integration of the Trade Control and Expert System (TRACES) to:

• cut delays
• improve compliance
• reduce administrative burden for operators and authorities
• protect compliant operators
• create a unified, transparent and efficient EU-wide system.

2023: New rules on sea transport

2 new acts were adopted to ensure better conditions for animals transported by livestock vessels:

• Implementing Regulation 2023/372 – livestock vessels, official controls and exit points: requires an electronic database for inspection results, a veterinarian on board for a vessel’s first journey, and seaports with a control post nearby where animals can rest.
   
• Delegated Regulation 2023/842 – official controls of animal welfare on livestock vessels: enhances official controls, including checks by veterinarians and maritime engineers.

2020–2023: Legislative review & strategy

As part of the Farm to Fork Strategy, the Commission committed to revising animal welfare legislation. This included:

• a fitness check of existing laws
• engagement with stakeholders via the EU Platform on Animal Welfare
• supporting studies, including modelling of policy options with the Joint Research Centre.

2015–2017: Animal Transport Guides

The Commission funded a project to develop practical guidance for transporting livestock. Deliverables included:

• 5 species-specific guides
• 17 technical fact sheets
• 5 educational videos.

These materials were disseminated throughout EU countries to improve practices among transporters, farmers and veterinarians.

Animal Transport Guides