New in Herdwatch: ‘Next Tag’ Functionality for BCMS Calf Registrations (England & Wales)

At Herdwatch, we know that calf registration and compliance are the bread and butter of livestock management. That’s why we’re excited to introduce a brand-new feature designed to make life even easier for cattle farmers in England and Wales: the ‘Next Tag’ functionality for BCMS calf registrations.

What Is It?

When you receive a new box of tags for your calves, you’ll often also get an Excel file with those tag numbers. With our new feature, you can now send that Excel file to info@herdwatch.com, and we’ll upload the tag numbers directly into your Herdwatch account.

Once uploaded, the next time you go to register a calf in the app, you’ll see a list of available tags ready to go, no more typing in long tag numbers manually!

How It Works

1. Get Your Tag List
   When you receive your new tags, ask your tag supplier for the Excel file of tag numbers.
2. Send It to Us
   Email the file to info@herdwatch.com. Make sure the Excel file:
   • Has only one column with the tag numbers.
   • Each tag is 14 digits, starting with UK (e.g., UK123456789012).
   • Remove any extra columns before sending (save a copy of the original for EID records if needed).
3. We Upload It
   We’ll upload the tags and let you know how many were accepted or flagged as incorrect.
4. Sync Your App
   Open the Herdwatch app and hit Backup and Sync.
5. Register Calves with Ease
   When registering a calf, tap Select Next Tag Number. You’ll see your list of available tags and can:
   • Pick the next available tag, or
   • Choose a specific tag (e.g., if you’re using a freezebrand or have a preferred sequence).

Who Can Use This?

This feature is for farmers in England and Wales using BCMS for calf registrations. It’s designed to streamline the process and reduce errors, saving you time and hassle.

Herdwatch users who register calves via ScotEID, NIFAIS, or AgFoods already has this functionality, due to the government system being more developed than BCMS.

Why It Matters

• Faster calf registrations
• Fewer errors from manual entry
• Better compliance with BCMS
• More time for what really matters, your livestock

If you’re ready to simplify your calf registrations, give the new ‘Next Tag’ feature a try today. Got questions or need help formatting your tag file? Just drop us a line at info@herdwatch.com we’re here to help.