Schedule trucks so that pigs can be unloaded promptly at the packing plant. Minimize the use of electric prods. Electric prods should not be used in the finishing barn. Calm pigs are easier to sort and separate then excited pigs. Pigs are easier to sort if the handler moves slowly and deliberately and separates the desired pigs from the group on the first attempt.
Excited pigs stick together and are more difficult to separate.
If pigs refuse to leave the finishing building, try shutting off the ventilation or reversing it. Pigs often balk if air is blowing in their faces as they exit the building. This will prevent pigs which are being driven out of the building from seeing or touching pigs which are in pens near the door. After loading, the plywood should be removed because it will interfere with ventilation flow through the pens. At the Packing Plant Practical experience has shown that improving handling at the packing plant and reducing electric prod usage will improve meat quality.