In this guide
4. Reporting methods
The following methods are available to report births, movements and deaths to BCMS:
- via CTS Online on Defra.GovUK
- using on farm software
No internet access?
If your farm has no internet access you can report births, movements and deaths by:
- the CTS self service line
- English 0345 011 1212
- Welsh 0345 011 1213
- asking an agent to report for you
CTS Online and CTS self service lines are available 24 hours a days, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. BCMS helpline opening times are Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm. They are closed on weekends and bank holidays. All calls are charged at local rates.
Farm Software
Farm software is an online tool to help:
- keep your farm records up to date
- send information regarding births, movements, and deaths directly to CTS at a time that suits you
- send information in a secure, reliable way and with a confirmation receipt check information for errors.
Failure to report
If you fail to report births, deaths and movements of cattle within the legislative deadlines, you could be found guilty of an offence. This could result in:
- penalties applied to your farm subsidy claims*, and/or
- a criminal conviction.
These failures will become apparent:
- during cattle inspections
- when incorrect, missing or duplicate animal information is reported on CTS, or
- when movement anomalies are investigated.
* Non claimants still have to undergo inspections and if found guilty of an offence, it could result in a fine and/or imprisonment.