If you want to use means of transport, such as truck trailers, car trailers or semi-trailers, for long journeys of animals in connection with a commercial activity, you need prior approval for these means of transport. This applies to transportation within the EU that lasts 8 hours or longer or within Germany that lasts longer than 12 hours (exception only for breeding and farm animals).

A transport operation includes the entire transportation process from the place of dispatch to the place of destination, including loading, unloading and, if necessary, accommodation at intermediate stations.

Approval is granted for a maximum of 5 years.

If you wish to transport animals commercially, the means of transport used must be equipped with

• a navigation system,
• an efficient ventilation system,
• a temperature monitoring system with data recorder and
• a warning system for exceeding permissible maximum or minimum temperatures

and meet the technical requirements of the EU Animal Transport Regulation (Regulation (EC) No. 1/2005).

Once you have submitted the documents, they will be reviewed by the veterinary office and your details documented. You will then receive your approval.

You must apply for approval before using the means of transport. You may only use the means of transport once you have received approval.

• The following proofs and declarations are required for approval:
  
  • Details of the company/institution
  • Details of the means of transportation
  • Vehicle registration document
  • TÜV-certified acceptance report of the means of transport
  • TÜV-certified acceptance report of the navigation system
  • Proof of data of the navigation system
  • Declaration that you or your representatives have not committed any serious infringements of Community and/or national animal welfare legislation in the last three years
  • Declaration that you or your representatives have not applied for approval from any other competent authority in Germany or a Member State