The international Marketing of live animals is a difficult and complex matter and several parties can be involved in any one shipment. Buyers are purchasing the animals for a specific purpose. Many factors may affect an animals capabilities.

Problems may arise as a result of the management of the producer, seller and/or buyer. Handling and care before and after the purchase may affect performance and acceptability of the animal. Because of the above, the success or failure of an international transaction must be a SHARING OF responsibilities.

1. Health – It is the basic endeavor of every livestock exporter to attempt to comply with the accepted health standards of the importing country.

2. Laws – To the best of the exporter’s knowledge, he will abide by the applicable laws of the United States and the importing country.

3. Transportation – The exporter will strive to transport the livestock in a safe, humane, economically efficient manner.

4. Advice – It is the moral obligation of the exporter to attempt to consult and advise the buyer to select the correct product that fits its ultimate need.

5. Humane Consideration – The exporter will strive to handle all livestock in a humane manner.

Importer or Buyer

1. Preparation – The buyer should prepare to properly receive the imported animals including but not limited to:

Arrangement for quick customs clearance into the country.

Proper unloading facilities.

Cleaned and disinfected transporting facilities.


Transport and handle humanely.

Clean and disinfected quarantine facilities with no exposure to other animals.

Facility should be designed for livestock comfort.

Provide proper veterinary and preventative care as well as adequate nutrition.

Provide proper segregation by sizes, sex or whatever else is necessary.

2. Reduce Stress – The goal of the buyer should be to reduce stress and aid in the adaptation of the new environment.