In section 7 of the OIE regulations, it outlines the regulations regarding land (7.3), sea (7.2), and air (7.4) transport for domestic animals. However, these regulations are applicable to the transportation of large megafuana.

7.3 Land

These regulations address how animal handlers should address animals and what behaviors to look for that indicate they are unwell or in distress. For example, it outlines the flight zone for cattle and where to approach that would minimize startling the animal. With giraffes also being ungulates, similar to many livestock animals, they too would contain a flight zone in which approaching would cause increased fear. Therefore, many of the considerations outlined in this manual would be important for creating something specifically suited for giraffes. It also goes on to address each stage of a journey, with choice of vehicle, crate design, travel distance, duration, etc, with species specific issues.

7.2 Sea

Sea regulations covers almost all of the same criteria, with slight variations in emergency procedures, vessel space allowance, and importation documentation into countries.

7.4 Air

Interestingly, section 7.4 does not mention anything with regards to animal behavior or handler competence. Instead, it focuses on the design of the container in which the animal is housed. Designs have to conform with the standard pallet of the aircraft being used, with common dimensions such as 2.5x3m. Full sized giraffes would exceed this space (reaching heights of 5m), which would cause a specific aircraft to be chosen for just the journey if an adult giraffe were to be transported. It additionally mentions tranquillization, and how due to reduced ability for the animal to respond to stress and the increased risk for complications, it recommends that tranquillization not be used. It even has specific mention of large megafuana, such as elephants, that should not go down if tranquilizers are to be used.

 

Additional reference:

There was one giraffe husbandry manual that stated specific requirements for both sea and air (Jolly 2003). When over 3m tall, giraffes should travel by sea. By air, giraffes can travel on a plan when under 3m, suggesting that only young giraffes are capable of air travel. This can serve additional complications as the OIE states that sick, elderly, or individuals with increased susceptibility to illness or injury should not travel by these means.