Live Cattle
Live cattle are live bovine animals that are not pure‑bred breeding stock. They are traded as primary livestock for meat production.
Prices, specifications and international trade for live cattle under HS 010229.
Live Cattle Price
Published reference · Jul 1, 2026
Live cattle is quoted in USD/t at FRA. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.
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France led reported live cattle exports in 2025, at $2.5B.
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Live cattle grading factors include Body condition score, Weight and frame size, and Health status.
Grading Factors
Quality assessment for live cattle considers Body condition score, Weight and frame size, and Health status.
- Body condition score
Assesses fat cover and muscle development, indicating whether the animal is ready for market or needs further feeding.
- Weight and frame size
Evaluates the animal's weight and skeletal size, which influence carcass yield and the optimal feeding program.
- Health status
Checks for signs of illness or injury, as sick animals may not perform well in the feedlot or may pose food safety concerns.
- Temperament
Assesses the animal's behavior, as calm animals are easier to handle and less likely to cause injury or stress-related weight loss.
- Breed type
Identifies the breed or cross, which affects growth rate, carcass quality, and suitability for different production systems.
Common Defects
Recorded defects for live cattle include Lameness, Blemishes or abscesses, and Chronic illness.
- Lameness
Visible limping or inability to move normally, which can reduce feed intake and weight gain, and may indicate injury or disease.
- Blemishes or abscesses
Swollen areas or open wounds on the body, which can lead to carcass trimming and reduce the value of the hide and meat.
- Chronic illness
Persistent coughing, nasal discharge, or other signs of disease, which can spread to other animals and lower overall lot performance.
- Poor body condition
Animals that are too thin or too fat, indicating they are not at the ideal stage for the intended market.
Live Cattle Facts and HS Code
Live cattle belongs to cattle and beef within protein and dairy. Its customs classification covers HS 010229.
Live Cattle HS Code
| Also known as | Feeder cattle, Fed cattle, Brazil, Cattle, Australia |
|---|---|
| Product type | Raw |
| Position in the chain | Primary |
| Category | Cattle and beef — Protein and dairy |
| HS codes | 010229 |
| HS6 description | Cattle; live, other than pure-bred breeding animals |
| Quoted in | USD/t |
| Reference location | FRA |
Production & Handling
Live cattle storage guidance: Cattle require access to clean water, adequate feed, and protection from extreme weather during holding and transport. Stress and overcrowding must be minimized to prevent weight loss and injury.
Production and Storage
| Perishability | High |
|---|---|
| Temperature regime | Ambient |
| Storage conditions | Cattle require access to clean water, adequate feed, and protection from extreme weather during holding and transport. Stress and overcrowding must be minimized to prevent weight loss and injury. |
| Production methods | Farmed |
| Processing steps |
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Packaging
Typical live cattle packaging includes Livestock trailer and Open-air pen.
- Livestock trailer
Used for transporting cattle from farm to feedlot or processing plant, allowing for safe and humane movement of animals.
- Open-air pen
Common for holding cattle at auction markets or feedlots before shipment, providing space and ventilation.
Uses & Risks
Live cattle is used in Slaughter for beef, Feeding to heavier weight, and Breeding stock.
End Uses
- Slaughter for beef
Animals are processed into primal cuts, ground beef, and other meat products for retail and food service.
- Feeding to heavier weight
Feeder cattle are placed in feedlots and fed a high-energy ration to increase weight and marbling before slaughter.
- Breeding stock
Some cattle are sold as replacements for breeding herds, contributing to genetic improvement and herd expansion.
- Dairy culling
Dairy cows that are no longer productive may be sold as live cattle for beef processing, providing a secondary revenue stream.
Uses and Related Commodities
| Downstream industries | Beef processing, Feedlots, Dairy farming, Livestock auction markets |
|---|---|
| Standards |
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Sourcing risks
| Risk | Mitigation |
|---|---|
Bovine respiratory disease DiseaseHigh A complex of viral and bacterial infections that can spread rapidly in stressed or commingled cattle, causing illness and death. | Implement vaccination programs, reduce stress during transport, and isolate new arrivals to prevent outbreaks. |
Transport stress and injury LogisticsMedium Long hauls, rough handling, or overcrowding can cause bruising, dehydration, and weight loss, reducing carcass value. | Use well-maintained trailers, provide adequate space and ventilation, and minimize transit time with rest stops. |
Export market restrictions PolicyMedium Changes in trade agreements or animal health regulations can limit access to certain export markets, affecting demand and prices. | Diversify market channels and stay informed of regulatory changes to adapt sourcing and sales strategies. |
Live Cattle Questions
- What defines live cattle as a commodity?
- Live cattle are defined as cattle that are alive at the point of sale, excluding pure‑bred breeding animals.
- How should live cattle be handled during transport to maintain quality?
- Transport should ensure adequate ventilation, temperature control, and minimal stress, with regular health checks to preserve animal welfare and meat quality.
- What storage conditions are required for live cattle before slaughter?
- Live cattle should be kept in clean, well‑ventilated holding areas with access to water and appropriate feeding, while monitoring for signs of illness.