The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is alerting animal transporters that the renewal process for Type 1 Transporter Authorisations has changed from 1 October 2016.
 
Type 1 Transporter Authorisations are required for those transporting animals - as part of an economic activity - on journeys over 65 km and up to 8 hours in duration. Those involved in economic activity include farmers, livestock and poultry hauliers and those who move horses in connection with professional riding, livery and stabling.
 
Under rules which came into force in 2005, Type 1 and Type 2 authorisation renewals were previously subject to differing approval regimes. Before 1st October, Type 1 authorisations were renewed automatically and issued without application and Type 2 transporter authorisations required an application and supporting documents to be submitted before re-authorisation could be granted. However, from 1 October, in order to comply with EU animal transport regulations, Type 1 Transporter Authorisations will not be renewed automatically. Animal transporters must now submit an application for renewal of their Type 1 authorisations.
 
Applications to renew animal transport authorisations should be submitted to APHA’s Welfare in Transport Team by post, email or fax. Renewal forms and information on how to obtain electronic copies of the renewal application are available on GOV.UK
 
Transporter authorisations are valid for five years, and a significant number were renewed in 2012. This means that a large number of authorisations are due for renewal in 2017 and APHA has urged transporters to apply for renewal at the earliest possible opportunity. Transporters do not need to wait until their current authorisations expire - renewals can be issued from 1 October.
 
Transporters have also been advised to check their current authorisation documents, which have the expiry dates printed on them. Those without valid authorisation run the risk of hefty penalties.
 
Transporters with queries about Type 1 Transporter Authorisation renewals can contact the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. There is no change to the renewal process for Type 2 Transporter Authorisations, for journeys over 65km and over eight hours in duration.