Equine Remains Shipping: Regulations & Protocols
When dealing with the loss of a beloved horse, owners must ensure the remains are transported legally and safely to their final resting place, whether that’s a crematorium or burial site. At Graver Horse Removal, we are experts in adhering to all regulations around proper equine remains shipping and transportation protocols.
Federal Regulations
On the federal level, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has strict rules for the interstate transportation of deceased livestock across state lines. This helps prevent the potential spread of diseases and contamination.
Any horse remains being shipped must be accompanied by a federal form stating the animal did not die from a communicable disease. Graver Horse Removal maintains updated files on every equine we transfer to prove they passed from non-infectious causes.
The remains themselves must also be fully contained within leak-proof shipping containers and vehicles that are disinfected before and after use per USDA regulations. Our company utilizes specialized equine transport trailers and UN-certified leak-proof metal containers when transporting remains.
USDOT Hazmat Rules
The U.S. Department of Transportation also classifies animal carcasses and associated waste materials as a potential hazardous material/dangerous good for shipping purposes. As such, we must follow their Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) for proper containment and vehicle segregation.
This includes using the correct hazardous shipping descriptions, marking containers with associated hazard class labels, and transporting via permitted vehicles registered to haul such hazmat cargo. Our removal trailers and drivers meet all USDOT standards for legal and safe deceased equine transportation.
Biosecurity Protocols
It’s also critical to prevent the accidental transmission of any bloodborne pathogens, infectious diseases, or contaminants from the remains during transit. Graver Horse Removal crews are trained in biosecurity best practices:
– Accelerated removal timelines to halt decomposition
– Securing remains in double-bagged, leak-proof containment
– Fully enclosing the body for no-contact handling
– Cab/trailer sanitization before/after every haul
– Proper disposal of any contaminated PPE
By following these proven protocols, we ensure the safe, legally compliant, and dignified shipping of your horse’s remains every step of the way to their final destination.
Whether transportation is needed for cremation services or relocating the remains to another facility, you can have peace of mind knowing Graver Horse Removal adheres to every regulation and biosecurity standard. We treat your equine friend’s remains with the utmost care and respect they deserve throughout the entire shipping process. Contact us to discuss your transportation needs.
