MOOving Animals: What You Need to Know

Transporting animals is wildly popular within the trucking industry.  It can be a beast but with the tips and tricks below, the process can be a much tamer one.  Read on to find out more…

Pet Peeves

The transporting of animals is officially referred to as the “intentional movement of animals by transport” according to the Department of Transportation.  Livestock that is for slaughter or sale, laboratory animals, pets, zoological specimens, wild animals being rescued or relocated, and racehorses all fall into the heading of “intentional movement of animals by transport”.

There are many pet peeves that are officially termed to be regulations and restrictions that anyone transporting such animals must adhere to.  These rules help protect not only the animals but people and other animals as well.

Certification

A certificate of veterinary inspection is one of the requirements you’ll need if you intend to transport one or more animals as described above.  You must get the information concerning a CVI from the destination you are going to. 

Quarantine

Some countries and states require the animal or animals to be quarantined for a certain amount of time before or upon their arrival.  It is up to you, the driver, to check this out.

Health

The animal or animals you are transporting should be healthy.  A federally approved veterinarian must make that call.  Vaccinations, tests, and certifications may or may not be required.

Timeline

Some quarantines or wait times are extensive.  Japan requires 180 days of quarantine for any pet coming into their country.  Zoo animals within the states often require a quarantine time as well, depending on the state.  In the event that the animal you are transporting has a long timeline attached, you’ll need to make arrangements for pet sitting, boarding, or whatever other set-up you can. 

Transport Trucks

Box Trucks are often used for transporting animals because they have an enclosed bed.  They also have a lift gate that allows for loading and unloading animals.  Flatbed Trucks and Cab and Chassis type trucks are also useful in transporting animals of all kinds. 

Owner-operators of commercial trucks can apply for the necessary permits in order to drive animals to their destination and often make a good amount of money for the transport.

Where to Seek Animal Transport Jobs

If you own a Box Truck, Flatbed, or another commercial truck or are planning to get one and think you may be interested in transporting animals, there are many places you can apply or inquire with.  Zoos, carnivals, racehorse facilities, vet clinics, animal adoption centers, and petting zoos are all good places to begin your search.  Also, inquire with ranchers who move cattle and horses.  Some contract their transporting needs out to independent truckers. 

MJ TruckNation

At MJ TruckNation, we stand out in the herd.  With tons of Box Trucks to choose from, our helpful team members are ready to help you find a Box Truck that is the perfect fit for your animal transportation business.  Come on in today or reach out online.  If you don’t live in the Florida area, no problem.  We’ll bring your truck to you.  Give us a call today and find out what MJ TruckNation can do for you – (561) 840-9800.