Transport
Any UK company which transports horses as part of their business is required by UK and European Union Law to have either an Open Operator's Licence or a Restricted Operator's licence. These are available from the Department of Transport (help line no. 020 7944 8300) Under the provisions of the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997, only commercial journeys of 8 hours or more require the transporter to hold a Defra-Specific Authorisation Reference.
Horses entering or leaving Britain have to do so via registered Border Inspection Posts (BIPs). European Commission legislation sets out the full list of BIPs, including those approved for horses.
Route plan rules for horse exports
are not affected by horse passports.
[Further Information]
Please click here for export licences and other applications forms
Page last modified:
3 January, 2007
Page published: 11 November,
2003