Buying Cattle or Sheep Advertised Online: Traceability First

An online advert does not replace the official system

AnimalAds can introduce a buyer and seller, but livestock identity and movement must still be handled through the official keeper, holding and movement systems. Confirm that both the source and destination are legally able to keep and move the species before agreeing collection or delivery.

• Verify the seller's identity and herd or flock details through appropriate official channels.
• Identify each animal or defined lot clearly in writing.
• Do not move stock merely because payment has been made.

Cattle: identity, passport and compliance

The Republic's bovine identification system combines official tags, the bovine passport, on-farm records and the AIM database. For a private cattle sale, DAFM states that the source keeper must obtain a Certificate of Compliance before an animal leaves the holding.

• Compare both official ear tags with the passport and agreed animal.
• Review movement eligibility and any applicable disease-control or testing restrictions.
• Make the required movement notifications within the official process.

Sheep: approved identification and movement records

Sheep must be identified under the National Sheep Identification System. The applicable tag or electronic identification arrangement depends on age and destination. Movement and dispatch records must accompany and be retained or notified as required.

• Check tag numbers and the flock or keeper details before movement.
• Confirm whether a full EID set, bolus set or permitted slaughter tag applies.
• Ensure farm-to-farm movement notification and flock-register records are completed.

Health, transport and the written deal

Ask about herd or flock health, current disease restrictions, recent tests, treatments, pregnancy or breeding status and any condition material to value or movement. Use a written invoice recording parties, holdings, tag numbers or lot schedule, price, VAT position where applicable, date and agreed risk transfer.

• Use transport that meets welfare and authorisation requirements.
• Do not rely on photographs to assess condition, identity or fitness to travel.
• Seek veterinary or agricultural advice where health status or movement eligibility is uncertain.

Northern Ireland uses different systems

Northern Ireland livestock identification and movement are administered through DAERA and NIFAIS arrangements. Do not use Republic of Ireland AIM steps as a substitute. For cross-border movement, obtain current official guidance before agreeing the transaction or transport.