One missing document or incorrect entry can derail a whole consignment, leading to expensive delays, regulatory fines or even refusing cargo at its destination. While airlines, land handlers and logistics suppliers have made progress in ensuring compliance, the complexity of global regulations, developing industry standards and strict welfare requirements still hold significant challenges.
“People assume that paperwork is just an administrative step, but in live animal transport it can make or break a consignment,” Jake Holliday, head of animal welfare LHR, warned.
Incorrect documentation is not just a discomfort; It is the welfare of animals at risk, and it creates financial losses and damages.
He emphasizes a real matter where a minor difference in the health certificate for an exotic animal mission to weeks of quarantine and thousands of dollars led extra costs.
“One unmarked box, one that is missing an official veterinarian, and you are looking at a serious problem,” he explained.
The regulatory landscape for animals air transport is anything but uniform. Each country has its own import requirements, veterinary documentation rules and transport restrictions. For example, while the EU sets rigorous access requirements for live animal shipping, the Middle East and Asia have different protocols, which often require additional permits and pre-approval.
“Operators often underestimate how different regulations can be, even within the same region. The paperwork needed for a dog flying from Paris to Dubai differs completely from one that goes to Australia or the US, ‘Holliday notes.
Errors may range from expired health certificates, wrong species classifications, the missing convention on international trade in endangered species (Cites) permits, or failure to meet the airline-specific coping requirements.
Avoid general documents slaughterhouses
How can stakeholders avoid these expensive errors and ensure compliance? According to Holliday, the key is proactive communication, digitalization and attention to detail.
Early coordination is essential
“Start the paperwork process early – weeks, not days before the shipping,” he advised.
Coordination with veterinarians, regulatory authorities and airlines ensures that any contradictions can be caught early.
Digital solutions for document management
With the air freight industry, the use of electronic documentation platforms and automatic compliance instruments can quickly reduce the human error.
Many cargo exhibitors adopt Iata’s digital solutions to improve the accuracy of documents and streamline customs clearance.
Work with specialists
Many compliance issues stem from insufficient expertise in live animal regulations. Holliday called on the carriers and expeditors to consult specialists who have experience with country -specific requirements.
“It is worth working on the investment to work with experts who know the nuances of animal transport paperwork – because one mistake can close a whole consignment,” he emphasized.
High interests of compliance
As global trade policies tighten and develop standards for animal welfare, pressure on compliance will only increase. Airlines and logistics providers must remain vigilant, adaptable and committed to best practices.
‘Regulations are not static – they are constantly changing. What worked last year may not be enough this year, ‘Holliday emphasizes.
