Regulated control scheme options
Operators who transport animal products for export that require an official assurance (export certificate) can choose to operate under a regulated control scheme (RCS) or a risk management programme (RMP).
If you choose to operate under an RCS, you can use either:
- the transport RCS template provided by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), or
- your existing documented procedures – changed where necessary to comply with RCS requirements.
Using MPI's transport RCS template
Our transport RCS template is a way for you to document your system to meet the requirements of the RCS:
Regulated control scheme (RCS) template for the transport of animal material and product [PDF, 324 KB]
This template can be used by:
- transport service operators
- vehicle docking facility operators.
A user guide is available to help you complete the template:
Guidance document: How to use the RMP or RCS template [PDF, 2.5 MB]
By complying with the requirements and procedures in the template, you meet the requirements of the Transport RCS.
Using your own documented procedures
If you choose to use your existing documented procedures as the basis for an RCS, you may need to change them so they meet our requirements.
Procedures you'll need to include are:
- how to handle the product
- cleaning
- maintenance
- record-keeping.
Once these procedures are documented, you need to:
- implement and follow them
- keep relevant records
- get your RCS verified
- register as an RCS transport operator.
Getting your RCS checked
If you're developing your RCS based on your own documented system, you need to get it checked by a recognised evaluator before it can be registered with MPI.
Ongoing RCS verification
A recognised verifier will check your RCS from time to time, to make sure you're:
- following the procedures in your documented system, and
- meeting the legal requirements.
Verification is performance-based. If your operation is performing well, and is in substantial compliance with all requirements, you will have less frequent verification visits.
Cost of evaluation and verification
You'll be charged a fee for evaluation (if required), and for ongoing verification visits.
These charges include the evaluator's or verifier's:
- preparation time
- time on site carrying out the evaluation or verification
- time to write their reports
- travel costs.
The overall cost will depend on the size of your operation and how complex it is.
Registering as a transport RCS operator
Once your RCS is completed (and has been evaluated, if required), you need to apply to MPI to register as a transport RCS operator.
Use the online application form AP16 to register:
AP16 – Registration of animal product transport / depot / export loading facility operator
If we're satisfied that your operation meets the RCS requirements, we will:
- register you as a transport RCS operator
- send you a certificate that you can pass on to exporters
- add your details to our list of registered transport operators.
Regulated control scheme – Transport, depot, and export loading facility operators
Related animal product notices
The legal requirements you must meet when you operate under the transport RCS are set out in 2 animal product notices:
Regulated Control Scheme – Transportation and Handling of Products for Export with an Official Assurance [PDF, 521 KB]
Export Requirements for Transportation of Products for Export with an Official Assurance [PDF, 437 KB]
Find out more
Transport, stores, and wharves legislation roadmap [PDF, 969 KB]
