Check the mechanical condition of the truck bed. Make sure that all lights on the truck are working. Fix any defective lights to ensure your safety and that of the livestock aboard. Check brakes and repair defects if necessary. Keep in mind that you are transporting animals whose safety is contingent upon your driving skills. The hitch and chains in the truck bed must be in a closed position so that they will not open during the trip. Check the latch status when you make stops along the way.
Consider the comfort of the livestock you are transporting. Place male animals away from female animals and do not overcrowd the truck bed. The Ohio State University in its Extension Bulletin article "Cattle Handling and Working Facilities" states that crowding and overloading carrier trucks can cause bruising injuries to animals. But the article also points out that too few livestock in the truck bed can also increase bruising incidents. Some animals may even fall and trample one another in a crowded truck bed. Allow adequate space between each animal, and keep the animals safe in transport so that they arrive at their destination in good health.
Take breaks during the trip and check on the animals as the journey progresses. If there is injury to an animal, use your first aid kit to tend to any wounds. Contact the receivers waiting for the livestock arrival, and explain that one animal has an injury that you may be unable to further care for. On arrival, that animal will be identified for immediate care by its recipient.
Stay alert and be cognizant of road perils, such as pavement degradation, that could shift the livestock around in the truck bed. Watch for other drivers' careless moves and practice defensive driving.
Weather conditions can also create a hazardous journey. Rough weather may change the behavior of the livestock aboard. Stop moving and pull off the main road so that agitated animals can settle down once again. Continuing the journey while animals may be attempting to break loose can be dangerous.
Fuel efficiency is an important exercise for long hauls. Do not allow your vehicle to idle while you are resting or tending to the animals' needs. Turn off the engine and protect fuel reserves. You could be driving for a very long time before arriving at a gas station in remote areas.
