Transporting Goats Safely & Legally

USDA Interstate Requirements

Different states have different for interstate transport requirements. This website can help you determine what you need for where you are and where the goats are going (or arriving). https://www.interstatelivestock.com/

Goats must be officially identified, typically with ear tags or tattoos, and accompanied by documentation when moving between states. The SCIGBA Registry has USDA recognition, so that goats registered with us may use tattoos as official form of identification. There are also USDA approved ear tags and microchips. Go to for specific information: www.aphis.usda.gov

If you have questions, please contact the USDA or scigbassoc@gmail.com

Moving Right along

You have found the perfect San Clemente Island Goats to start or add to your herd, but how to get them from across the country? Figuring out transport can seem daunting, but let us help to erase some of the mystery and prepare you for your new herd members. Scroll down the page to learn more.

  1. Types of Transport

  2. Paperwork

  3. Logistics

  4. Buyer’s Checklist

TYPES OF TRANSPORT

There are four options for transporting goats.

  • Personal

  • Hitching A Ride

  • Professional Hauler

  • Airline

Each has their own logistics and considerations.

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How to find transport (professionals & hobbyists)

  • Facebook Groups

  • Recommendations

Information to have Available when talking to a transporter

  • Zip Codes (pick up & drop off)

  • Goat Height, Weight, Horn Width Tip to Tip

Questions to Ask

  • How transported – trailer or in a vehicle?

Trailer set up? Crates? And if so, do you need to provide? AC?

  • Door to door?

  • When able to get on schedule?

  • Number of days in transit? Considerations for multiple days?

  • Provide hay? How often water?

  • Do they send updates on the animals during transport? How often?

  • Insured? US DOT licensed?

  • Experience?

  • Contract?

  • Referrals and/or reviews?

Additional Information

Tips for Personal Transport

  • Know the size of the goats. Can you transport in your vehicle? Do you need a trailer?

  • Supply list – collar, lead, hay, treats, pet potty pads, jug of water, water drinking container w/ clip to present from spilling

  • Traveling long distance? Large chain outdoor stores are wonderful pit stops.  Many have corral & kennel facilities for use.  The goats can stretch their legs while you do spot cleaning. Have locks with you for the gates in case you need the facilities too!

  • Goats are fine in a kennel or trailer overnight as long as the temperature is not excessive. 

  • Heating bottles – bottle warmer, dashboard, hot water (bathroom, coffee machine) in a metal bucket

Recommended haulers by breeders

  • 5 Star Livestock Transport

  • Blarney Heights Farm Transport

  • Johnathan Lippert

 Airlines

Paperwork

  1. Get a filled out Bill of Sale from the owner/breeder.

  2. Get any current registrations that the owner has for the goat(s). If they don’t have any, discuss with them getting the goats registered with the SCIGBA Registry.

  3. Have the owner get a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection if you are crossing state lines with the goat, so that you have it with you when you pick up (or when the transporter picks up) the goat.