What defines a live chicken in trade terms?

Live chickens are poultry of the species Gallus domesticus, each weighing more than 185 g.

How should live chickens be stored before delivery?

They should be kept in well‑ventilated, temperature‑controlled holding areas, typically between 10 °C and 20 °C, with access to clean water and feed to maintain health.

What basic quality checks are performed on live chickens at the point of sale?

Buyers inspect birds for signs of disease, injury, or abnormal weight, verify that they meet the minimum weight threshold, and ensure they are alive and responsive.

Live Chickens

Live chickens are domesticated fowls of the species Gallus domesticus that are sold as live animals. They are typically weighed above 185 g and are used for meat or egg production.

Prices, specifications and international trade for live chickens under HS 010594.

Live Chickens Price

$1,495USD/t

Published reference · Jul 1, 2026

Live Chickens Historical Unit Values

Live chickens is quoted in USD/t at DEU. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.

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Live Chickens Exports and Imports

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Germany led reported live chickens exports in 2025, at $522M.

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Live Chickens Facts and HS Code

Live chickens belongs to poultry within protein and dairy. Its customs classification covers HS 010594.

Live Chickens HS Code

Scientific name	Gallus domesticus
Product type	Raw
Position in the chain	Primary
Category	Poultry — Protein and dairy
HS codes	010594
Quoted in	USD/t
Reference location	DEU

Production & Handling

Processing steps for live chickens include Breeding, Rearing, Transport to slaughterhouse.

Production and Storage

Processing steps	Breeding Rearing Transport to slaughterhouse Slaughter Dressing Chilling

Uses & Risks

Live chickens is used in Meat consumption and Breeding stock.

End Uses

Meat consumption
Live chickens are sold to be processed into poultry meat for human consumption.
Breeding stock
Some live chickens are purchased as breeding stock for poultry farms.

Live Chickens Questions

What defines a live chicken in trade terms?: Live chickens are poultry of the species Gallus domesticus, each weighing more than 185 g.
How should live chickens be stored before delivery?: They should be kept in well‑ventilated, temperature‑controlled holding areas, typically between 10 °C and 20 °C, with access to clean water and feed to maintain health.
What basic quality checks are performed on live chickens at the point of sale?: Buyers inspect birds for signs of disease, injury, or abnormal weight, verify that they meet the minimum weight threshold, and ensure they are alive and responsive.