Genetically modified animals

Live animals in which genetic material has been altered through genetic engineering or which has been intentionally infected with genetically modified microorganisms which are not shed anymore.

  • Road transport: if genetically modified live animals have no negative effect on humans, animals and plants and are carried in receptacles that are suitable for preventing the escape of the animals, they are not subjected to ADR.
  • Air transport: genetically modified live animals: UN 3245.
UN-Number Proper shipping name Class Packing instruction ADR (Road) Packing instruction IATA (Air)
3245 Genetically modified animals 9 Not considered as dangerous goods PI 959 is not applicable to live animals IATA live animal regulations have to be followed

Packaging instruction PI 959 is not suited for the transport of live animals. IATA live animal regulations can be taken as guidelines for suitable receptacles. International transport possible by the terms and conditions approved by the competent authorities of the state of origin, transit and destination, and operator.

Transport of animals should be done in accordance with the animal welfare regulations (SR 455.1, Tierschutzverordnung, Chapter 7).

Small animals (i.e. rodents):

Commercially available shipping containers for rodents, preferably plastic boxes, with filters, sufficient airflow and a clear window for easy inspection of animals during transport. The lid must be tightly closable. The packaging

  • should be resistant enough to avoid escape of animal(s);
  • should be non-hazardous for animal(s).

Large animals (i.e. farm animals):

There are minimal space requirements for the transport of large animals according to the animal welfare regulation.

Invertebrates (Insects etc.):

A triple packaging is recommended:

  • Primary receptacle, i.e. a tight fitted plastic box closed with a gauze cover for ventilation; the gauze mesh size needs to be fine enough to prevent any individuals from escaping;
  • Secondary packaging, i.e. solid styrofoam box containing cooling elements, sealed with tape;
  • Outer packaging, e.g. standard cardboard shipping box.

For air transport: IATA life animal regulations, information provided by carrier.

  • Name and address of consigner and consignee, phone number of responsible person;
  • Live animals;
  • Up and down arrows on opposite side of box.

Additionally for air transport:

  • UN number and proper shipping name: UN 3245, genetically modified live animals, scientific name in brackets (description of content);
  • Net quantity (number of animals).

Note: A shipper's declaration for dangerous goods and instructions in writing are not required for UN 3245 if packed in accordance with P904 or PI959, respectively.

  • It is recommended to provide an itemized list of contents including name of genetically modified (micro-)organisms and trait of genetic modification, respectively;
  • Required permits, if applicable;
  • Delivery note with details on animals transported including number of animals. 

Additionally for air transport:

  • Air Waybill for air transport (form provided and filled out by carrier), including:
  • Transport document (according to Cartagena Ordinance art. 4) for the trans-boundary movement of living genetically modified organisms intended for contained use only.

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Last edition: 19.12.2023