Managing veterinary control in EU pet food imports – efficiency and cost control across the supply chain

Importing pet food and veterinary products from outside the European Union involves more than just transport. A critical part of the process is passing mandatory veterinary inspections at the EU border. Based on our experience supporting clients in the pet care sector, at Rohlig SUUS Logistics we manage this process end-to-end – from documentation to coordination at the point of entry – ensuring a smooth and predictable import flow, greater operational efficiency, and reduced risk of delays and additional costs.

Veterinary control is one of the most demanding stages in importing pet food into the EU. All products of animal origin must undergo inspection at a designated Border Control Post (BCP) at the first point of entry, which is a prerequisite for customs clearance and market access. The process is highly regulated, documentation-intensive, and typically takes 1–3 days, making proper planning critical for the entire supply chain.

Managing veterinary control as a key element of supply chain efficiency

Managing veterinary inspections effectively requires not only regulatory knowledge, but also hands-on operational experience. Working with a comprehensive logistics operator is key – one that manages the entire import process, from selecting the most efficient transport mode and handling storage, to customs clearance, final delivery, and support with veterinary documentation.

We support clients end-to-end – from preparing documentation and handling pre-notifications in TRACES to coordinating the inspection process with border authorities, ensuring smooth clearance at the point of entry into the EU. With extensive experience across CEE markets, including recent projects in the Czech Republic, we help clients navigate complex regulatory environments and avoid operational disruptions.

This approach translates into:

• smooth and predictable import operations,
• full compliance with EU regulatory requirements,
• reduced risk of delays and additional costs,
• a single logistics partner responsible for both transport and administrative procedures. 

What does the veterinary control process look like?

Pre-notification of the consignment
Before arrival, the shipment must be registered in the TRACES system using the Common Health Entry Document (CHED), allowing inspection authorities to prepare in advance.

Documentary check

Authorities verify:

• veterinary and health certificates from the country of origin,
• approval status of the manufacturing facility and product,
• documentation related to processing and product composition. 

Identity check
Verification that documentation matches the actual shipment – including labelling, batch numbers, and quantities.

Physical inspection

Depending on the risk level, this may include:

• inspection of packaging and product condition,
• temperature control,
• sampling for laboratory testing,
• verification of technological processing (e.g. for chewable pet treats). 

Inspection result – CHED issuance

Once the inspection is successfully completed, a CHED document is issued, confirming compliance and allowing the shipment to proceed to customs clearance.

Non-compliance scenarios
If requirements are not met, the shipment may be detained, returned to origin, or destroyed at the importer’s expense.