Selling or Moving Birds
Moving or selling birds across state lines requires testing and paperwork. Always check the rules for your destination state.
Top Things to Consider Before Moving Your Birds
For clarificaiton on terms used below, see the definitions list at the bottom of the page.
Do I need test results and paperwork to cross state lines?Yes.
You will need testing and official forms if you are:
- Selling or moving live poultry into another state
- Bringing birds to a swap, fair, or show in another state
- Shipping hatching eggs across state lines
Always check before you go by contacting the state animal health official or event organizer in the state to which you are travelling (destination state).
What testing is required to move across state lines?
Disease testing requirements:
- All states do require Pullorum-Typhoid (P-T) testing with negative results. Blood collection is required for P-T testing.
- Some shows and events within your state may also require P-T testing.
- Other disease testing may be required.
- Contact your veterinarian or the state animal health official in the state to which you are travelling (destination state) and confirm import requirements.
What paperwork is required to move across state lines?
One of the following movement documents is required:
- VS 9-3: for current NPIP certified flocks, provided through your state NPIP office
- Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI): issued by a licensed veterinarian, typically not needed if you are in the NPIP
- Some state may require a permit number for the CVI. This would be obtained by your veterinarian.
How do I know if I need a VS 9-3 or a CVI?
The official movement paperwork required for your poultry depends on whether your flock is enrolled in the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP).
- Testing must be current and properly documented before forms are issued.
- NPIP flocks already meet P-T requirements.
- CVIs are often valid for 30 days, but confirm with the destination state.
What should I plan for ahead of time?
Schedule Ahead
Testing and paperwork take time. Schedule P-T testing and any needed veterinary visits several weeks before travel.
Keep All Records
Retain VS 9-3 forms, CVIs, and sales logs for at least 3 years. These records may be requested during audits or for future movement.
Know Who to Contact
If you have questions, contact your state animal health official. Each state sets its own requirements, so always confirm before you travel.
Are the rules different for fairs, shows, and events?
Always check before you go
Contact the event organizer and the state animal health official in your destination state.
- Out-of-state events: Same as interstate movement (negative P-T test and official movement paperwork). Import permits or AI testing may also be required.
- In-state events: Rules vary. P-T testing may be required based on the state or event organizer.
Where can I look up specific state rules?
Check the import rules for your destination state on their Department of Agriculture or Livestock Board website:
Are you moving or selling to a different state?
Summary of Requirements
Always check the rules for your destination state. Poultry import rules can vary between states.
| Scenario | P-T Test Required | VS 9-3 | CVI | May Need Import Permit or AI Testing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selling birds out of state | Yes | If NPIP | If not NPIP | Yes, depending on state |
| Taking birds to an out-of-state event | Yes | If NPIP | If not NPIP | Yes, depending on state |
| Shipping hatching eggs | Often required (check state) | If NPIP | If not NPIP | Yes, depending on state |
| In-state show or fair | Check event rules | Not needed | Not needed | Check event rules |
Definitions
Avian Influenza (AI) Testing
A laboratory test that checks birds for avian influenza viruses, especially H5 and H7 strains. Some states require proof of recent AI testing or NPIP “Avian Influenza Clean” status for movement, exhibition, or sale.
Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI)
An official health document issued by a licensed veterinarian. It shows that your birds have been examined, are healthy, and meet the import requirements of the destination state. CVIs are commonly valid for about 30 days, but the exact period is set by each state.
Import Permit
Written authorization from the State Animal Health Office that allows poultry or hatching eggs to enter the state. Some states require an import permit in addition to a CVI or VS 9-3. Always check with the import state to confirm if a permit is required.
National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP)
The NPIP is a voluntary USDA program run in partnership with the states. It is a cooperative testing and certification program for poultry breeding flocks, hatcheries, dealers, and hatching eggs. NPIP focuses on diseases such as Pullorum Typhoid, and Avian Influenza. Certified flocks are tested regularly and can use the VS 9-3 form for interstate movement.
Pullorum-Typhoid (P-T) Testing
A blood test that checks if birds carry Pullorum Disease or Fowl Typhoid, two contagious poultry diseases. All states require proof of P-T Clean status before birds can be moved, shown, or sold. This can be met either through a recent negative P-T test or by being part of an NPIP participating flock, where testing is done routinely.
State Animal Health Official (SAHO)
The state veterinarian who oversees animal health programs and sets requirements for moving animals, including poultry, into or within the state. Contact the State Animal Health Office to confirm testing and paperwork rules before traveling with birds or hatching eggs.
VS 9-3 Form
A shipping form used by flocks enrolled in the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP). It verifies that poultry or hatching eggs come from a flock that meets NPIP disease testing standards. Only NPIP flocks in good standing with their state program can use this form.