A Step-by-Step Guide for International Buyers

At BRC Ranch, we export Brahman genetics to cattle producers around the world. One of the questions we receive most often is:

“How do I import semen from BRC Ranch?”

The good news is that the process is much simpler than many people think. While every country has its own import requirements, the overall process is very similar regardless of where you live.

Here’s how it works.

Step 1: Choose Your Genetics

The first step is selecting the bulls you’d like to purchase semen from.

Whether you’re looking for show ring genetics, maternal strength, carcass quality, performance, or outcross bloodlines, our team is happy to help recommend the best sires for your breeding program.

Once you’ve selected your semen, you can order anytime at www.shopbrcutrer.com. The store is setup to apply all standard volume discounts which are available at 150 units, 250 units, and 500 units.

Or, if you need to wire funds, please email us your list and we’ll prepare your invoice.

Step 2: Complete Your Purchase

After payment is received, BRC Ranch releases your semen from storage.

We only market CSS (Certified Semen Services) quality semen, providing buyers confidence that the semen has been collected, processed, identified, and stored under one of the highest quality assurance programs in the artificial insemination industry. CSS standards are widely recognized throughout the world for semen quality and animal health.

Step 3: Your Semen Is Released From the Bull Stud

Most BRC Ranch semen is stored at:

Elgin Breeding Service (Texas)
Brushy Creek Sires (Texas)

Once your purchase is complete, we authorize the release of your semen directly from the storage facility.

From this point forward, you coordinate the shipment and export process with you or your export agent.

Step 4 (Or Step 1 Depending on your Country): Obtain Your Import Permit

Most countries require an import permit before frozen semen can be shipped into the country. This permit is typically obtained through your country’s Department (or Ministry) of Agriculture, Veterinary Authority, or other government agency responsible for livestock imports.

The timing of this step is important. While some buyers obtain their permit after purchasing semen, others prefer to secure it before placing their order. The best approach depends on your country’s import regulations.

Keep in mind that preparing an international shipment from the United States—including export documentation, health certificates, and scheduling the shipment—can often take 4 to 8 weeks. At the same time, many import permits are only valid for a limited number of days. You don’t want your permit to expire before your shipment is ready to leave the U.S.

Some countries offer more flexibility by issuing a general or blanket permit (for example, a permit allowing the import of 500 units of frozen bovine semen), which can be used for multiple purchases during the permit’s validity period. Others require a permit for each individual shipment.

If this is your first time importing semen, we recommend contacting your local veterinarian or agricultural authority early in the process to understand your country’s specific requirements and determine the best time to apply for your permit.

Step 5: Export Documentation

Once your import permit is approved, the semen collection center prepares the required export paperwork.

Depending on your country’s requirements, this may include:

International health certificates
Collection records
CSS documentation (when applicable)
Additional veterinary certifications required by your country

Experienced export coordinators at the semen collection facility handle these documents on a daily basis and work directly with USDA export requirements and international protocols.

Step 6: Arrange Shipping

Frozen semen must be transported in a liquid nitrogen shipping tank (also called a dry shipper).

Depending on your order, you may:

Purchase your own shipping tank
Rent one through your shipping provider (availability varies)
Work through an export company that supplies the shipping tank as part of their service

The tank keeps the semen safely frozen throughout international transit.

Step 7: Customs & Delivery

Once your shipment arrives in your country, it will typically pass through customs and veterinary inspection according to your nation’s import regulations.

After clearance, your shipment is delivered to you or your designated veterinarian, AI technician, or storage facility.

Should I Hire an Export Company?

Many international breeders choose to work with a professional livestock genetics export company.

These companies can coordinate:

Import permits
Export paperwork
Freight forwarding
Customs clearance
Shipping logistics

While there is an additional fee for these services, many buyers appreciate having experienced professionals manage the paperwork.

Others prefer to work directly with the semen collection center and arrange the shipment themselves.

Both options work well.

Absolutely.

Many breeders within the same country combine orders and ship multiple purchases together.

This often reduces shipping costs because several breeders share:

Shipping tank costs
Freight charges
Export documentation fees

If you have friends or neighboring breeders interested in BRC genetics, consolidating shipments can be a very economical option.

How Long Does International Shipping Take?

Shipping times vary depending on:

Destination country
Airline schedules
Customs processing
Import approval timelines

The paperwork usually takes longer than the physical shipment itself, so planning ahead is always recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you ship semen worldwide?

In many cases, yes. Availability depends on your country’s import regulations and whether the required export health protocol exists between the United States and your country.

Is all BRC semen export eligible?

Most of our semen is collected and stored with international distribution in mind. However, we do not collect for Australia or the EU as part of our standard testing. If a specific bull has country-specific requirements, we’ll let you know before your purchase.

Can BRC Ranch handle the export paperwork?

No. BRC Ranch sells the semen and authorizes its release. The export documentation and shipment are handled by the semen collection center or your chosen export company, as they are the licensed facilities responsible for preparing export documentation.

Do I need a veterinarian?

In many countries, yes. Your veterinarian or AI technician can often assist with import permits, storage, and insemination once the semen arrives.

What if I’ve never imported semen before?

Don’t worry—we work with first-time international buyers regularly. Our team is happy to point you in the right direction and help make the process as smooth as possible.

Ready to Import BRC Ranch Genetics?

Our genetics are working in breeding programs around the world, and we’d be honored to help yours be next.

If you’re interested in purchasing semen, contact BRC Ranch and we’ll help you choose the right sires, answer your questions, and get the process started.

How to Import Brahman Semen from the USA | BRC Ranch International Semen Export Guide