Swine Identification
Last Modified: August 21, 2025
APHIS is offering no-cost radio frequency identification (RFID) eartags to eligible swine producers. This program will enhance the speed and accuracy of disease response efforts across the swine industry.
APHIS has awarded a contract to Merck Animal Health to supply up to $20 million in RFID tags over the next 5 years. These tags are intended for use in the sow and exhibition swine sectors.
What sets this program apart is its direct-to-premises distribution model—tags will be shipped directly from the manufacturer to the producer, streamlining access and reducing delays.
Who Can Order
- Commercial Sow Facilities
- Exhibition Swine Facilities
- State Animal Health Officials
To qualify, requesters must:
- Have a valid premises identification number (PIN).
- Provide shipping and contact information.
- Report the number of sows or show pigs onsite.
Tag Ordering Guidelines
| Number of Sows on Premises | Maximum Number of Tags per Year |
|---|---|
| 1–500 | 500 |
| 501–999 | 750 |
| 1,000–4,999 | 1,500 |
| 5,000–9,999 | 3,000 |
| 10,000+ | 6,000 |
The number of half duplex (HDX) RFID eartags available each year at no cost through this program varies by group.
- Sow Producers: The maximum number of tags is based on the number of sows at a premises, as shown in the table.
- Exhibition Swine Producers: You may order tags for all swine on your premises.
- State Animal Health Officials (SAHOs): You may request tags for up to 50% of your State’s breeding sow population, as reported by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service.
