When to Ship Calves for Lower Mortality and Better Growth
Transporting young calves can place heavy demands on their still-developing immune and metabolic systems. During shipping, calves may be separated from regular milk feedings, exposed to unfamiliar animals, and subjected to temperature swings.
These stressors can suppress immunity, slow weight gain, and increase the likelihood of respiratory disease or scours. Careful planning before shipment plays a major role in protecting calf health and long-term productivity.
According to research referenced by Jessica Mitchell, Ph.D., of Penn State Extension, many U.S. calves are transported within the first week of life, and some within 24 hours after birth. At this stage, their immune defenses are not fully developed. Studies show clear benefits to delaying transport.
Calves moved after 10 days of age experience fewer respiratory issues, and those shipped between 13 and 24 days are less likely to arrive dehydrated. Transporting calves at 28 days has been associated with significantly lower mortality compared to moving them at two weeks of age. Older calves are typically stronger, heavier, and better prepared to handle stress.
Nutrition before transport is equally important. Federal rules allow up to 28 hours of continuous travel, making energy reserves critical. Research indicates that calves fed milk replacer before a six-hour trip maintained better energy status than calves given electrolytes alone.
A full milk feeding prior to departure, and during rest stops on longer hauls, helps stabilize blood glucose and reduce shrink.
Fitness for travel should always be evaluated individually. Calves should be bright, alert, properly hydrated, free of navel infections, and confirmed to have received adequate colostrum. Heavier calves consistently show lower illness and death rates, and shorter trips further reduce stress.
Best Management Practices Recommendations:
- Schedule calf transport at 3–4 weeks of age when possible, to allow stronger immune development and body weight gain.
- Provide a full milk feeding just before loading and plan milk feedings during rest stops on longer trips.
- Assess each calf individually before shipment, confirming adequate colostrum intake and overall health.
- Ship heavier, well-grown calves, as greater arrival weight is linked to lower disease risk and improved survival.
- Limit hauling duration by coordinating logistics carefully to reduce stress and immune suppression.
Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography