Exporting is not trivial. It requires attention to detail However, it is more profitable than selling for meat, is far more interesting, and puts you at the head of the queue at the Bank. You will do well to use the services of an experienced shipper simply because of the mass of details associated with selection, health controls, paperwork, transport, international regulations, transits, export licences, import licences, crating requirements, aircraft types, flight bookings, routes, handlers, insurance, payments, bank details ete. In addition to this you may require translations, and your geographical location may mitigate against ease of access/time available for overseas visitors.

Minimum considerations are:

1. Do not farm pigs, pugs, peccaries or porcupines with the sole view of exporting. Life and nature will conspire against to stop exports - disease, foreign controls, fussy customers etc. What you must do is plan for sales WITHIN THE UK, The 'better mousetrap' principle. Get known for good pigs at home, and the foreign buyers will pay attention.

2. All pigs must be pedigree registered.

3. Keep good and detailed records and be ready to share these with buyers.

4. Take stringent health precautions. If you show pigs, you always run the risk of bring something nasty back home. Keep show pigs separate for at least 30 days before introducing them to the main unit.

5. If possible build a website to post all the animals you have available - Utters born - prizes won - sales made etc.

6. Consider the special requirements for export isolation. This is more stringent than show isolation. I can supply details as required. Basically - a separate airspace in a solid building that can be disinfected, at least 30 yards from any animal. I know of several excellent breeders who can never export simply because they have no suitable isolation available. This could possibly be arranged on a neighbour's unit if necessary.

7. Secure a 'multiple pick-up licence' in case animals for sale have to be
   collected from several sources including yours. This is free, by application to your local DVM, though there are fees for veterinary supervision/reports etc.

8. Check that your vet has LVI (Local Veterinary Inspector) status in order to sign export certificates. Not all are approved by DEFRA,

9. Consider how and where you will show your animals to prospective buyers. Small herds may not be able to afford viewing rooms, but boots and clothing should be supplied for visitors, and careful consideration paid to the tidiness of the unit. A shambolic unit does not sell pigs, any more than a shabby forecourt sells cars.

10. Know what to ask for in terms of prices for your stock. Too low is a waste of everyones' time - especially yours and fellow club members. Too high may lose a sale to others, but there is no shame in that, and remember that traditional breeds are not so widely available, so do not be afraid of asking realistic prices, and offer discount for quantity. Prices should includ egeneration export pedigrees and all your time and effort in isolation. Vet testing and transport are normally extra depending ®& the details required by the importing country.

11. If you think you can meet ail these requirements, keep me posted of your families, litters born, availabilities, successes etc. Export enquiries always appear completely without warning, and I can only promote those herds that are willing and able to export.

I look forward to hearing from any breeders interested and will be pleased to advise anyone with any export enquiries.

 

Tim Harris
Harris Associates Ltd

 

Tim Harris is a long-time member of the Berkshire Pig Breeders Club, and has been instrumental in a large number of exports involving club members.