Still possible, especially on a small scale since post-Brexit. Here is a link to get started.
https://grok.com/share/bGVnYWN5LWNvcHk_71ef3243-1d56-4385-878f-2027d7bf140b
Yes, fertile (hatching) eggs can be shipped between countries in Europe, particularly within the European Union (EU), as this is considered intra-EU trade in poultry products.
Commercial trade in hatching eggs is common within the EU, especially for poultry breeding stock.
For small-scale or personal shipments (e.g., hobby breeders), the same rules generally apply, though exemptions exist for very small operations in some contexts — always check with national authorities.
Consult the competent veterinary authority in the originating and destination countries countries (via the European Commission’s food safety site or national agriculture ministries) for specific certificates and current requirements, as disease outbreaks can impose temporary restrictions.
https://grok.com/share/bGVnYWN5LWNvcHk_71ef3243-1d56-4385-878f-2027d7bf140b
Yes, fertile (hatching) eggs can be shipped between countries in Europe, particularly within the European Union (EU), as this is considered intra-EU trade in poultry products.
Key Regulations for Shipping Within the EU
Fertile hatching eggs are regulated under EU animal health laws to prevent the spread of diseases like Newcastle disease or avian influenza. The main rules are outlined in:- Regulation (EU) 2016/429 (Animal Health Law)
- Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/688
- Eggs must originate from registered or approved establishments (e.g., breeding farms or hatcheries).
- They must meet specific animal health standards, including testing for certain diseases.
- Consignments typically require an animal health certificate.
- Additional rules may apply if shipping to a Member State with disease-free status (e.g., free from Newcastle disease without vaccination).
- Packaging must be clean, marked appropriately (e.g., with establishment numbers), and contain eggs from the same species/type/origin.
- Transport must follow biosecurity measures (e.g., clean vehicles, direct routing where possible).
Commercial trade in hatching eggs is common within the EU, especially for poultry breeding stock.
Shipping Methods
- Commercial/courier/air freight: Common and compliant with IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) for perishable live cargo (hatching eggs are treated as sensitive due to embryos).
- Postal mail: Generally not recommended or allowed for fertile eggs, as they require controlled conditions and certification; postal services often prohibit live/perishable biological materials.
Outside the EU (e.g., to/from non-EU European countries like UK, Switzerland, Norway)
Stricter import/export rules apply, often requiring veterinary certificates, approvals from both sides, and compliance with third-country regulations. Post-Brexit, the UK treats EU shipments as imports.For small-scale or personal shipments (e.g., hobby breeders), the same rules generally apply, though exemptions exist for very small operations in some contexts — always check with national authorities.
Consult the competent veterinary authority in the originating and destination countries countries (via the European Commission’s food safety site or national agriculture ministries) for specific certificates and current requirements, as disease outbreaks can impose temporary restrictions.
