How is Livestock Transported Overseas?

The logistics of transporting livestock across continents has evolved significantly over the years. Specialized ships designed exclusively for the transport of livestock have become the norm, capable of carrying tens of thousands of sheep and other farm animals. These ships can either be built as purpose-designed livestock carriers or converted cargo ships. However, it is crucial to understand that the requirements to transport both cargo and live animals are vastly different, making standard cargo ships unsuitable for this task.

For container shipping, it is essential to pre-kill the animals and use refrigerated containers to ensure freshness and safety. Alternatively, dedicated livestock carriers feature multiple superstructure decks with animal pens. These specialized ships can be found through online resources like Marine Insight.

Types of Livestock Carriers

Livestock is primarily transported using two main types of vessels: open livestock carrier vessels and mechanical livestock carrier vessels. These types of ships cater to the storage needs of the livestock while ensuring sufficient weight-carrying capacity, which ranges from 2000 to 2500 dead weight tonnage (DWT).

These vessels can be categorized based on their operational characteristics rather than their weight-carrying capacity. The most critical aspect is the storage area for the livestock, which must be carefully designed to handle the animals comfortably and safely during transit.

Open Livestock Carrier Vessels

Open livestock carrier vessels have an open or partially enclosed storage area. This design provides flexibility for various types of livestock depending on their size and nature. The open design allows for natural ventilation, reducing stress on the animals during transit.

Mechanical Livestock Carrier Vessels

Mechanical livestock carrier vessels are equipped with mechanical systems to control the environment within the storage area, ensuring optimal conditions for the livestock. These systems can include climate control, ventilation, and automated feeding mechanisms, enhancing animal comfort and safety.

Challenges and Conditions on Livestock Carriers

The transportation of livestock overseas is not without its challenges. Large animals such as cattle and sheep are usually transported using livestock carriers or cattle ships. These vessels feature steep ramps leading to narrow pens where the animals are crammed for the journey. Many of these ships are converted at the end of their lifecycle, often repurposed from bulk carrier or container vessels due to the low-margin and seasonal nature of the business.

Rapid movement and severe weather can lead to heat exhaustion, injuries, and even death for the animals onboard. In some cases, the waterborne journey can be so traumatic that ships may leave a trail of bloated carcasses, making it easy to follow their course through the water. Despite the international regulations mandating sufficient water, fodder, and animal wardens, the journey is often a traumatic experience for the animals, and their welfare can suffer.

While these ships must comply with international regulations and carry necessary provisions for the animals, the journey remains a stressful and often fatal experience for the livestock. As a result, some countries with stringent animal welfare laws have banned or restricted seaborne livestock exports.

Conclusion

The transportation of livestock overseas is a complex and challenging process that requires specialized ships and meticulous planning. While significant advancements have been made in recent years, the journey remains fraught with challenges for the animals involved. Understanding the different types of vessels and the associated conditions can help mitigate some of the negative impacts on the livestock.

For those in the livestock transportation industry, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare while adhering to international regulations is crucial. Whether through purpose-built livestock carriers or repurposed vessels, the goal should always be to provide a safe and humane journey for the animals crossing vast oceans.