The role of classification is to identify those animals which will have a trouble-free and productive life. For each animal they inspect Classifiers score twenty-four individual characteristics known as ‘linear’ traits on a 1 to 9 scale and combine this information in five ‘composites’ and an overall classification score.

Breeders use classification information to help select and develop the best bloodlines in their own herds, as well as when sourcing animals from other herds. Animals that classify well command a premium at sale time.

Classification information is a key component in the calculation of UK bull proofs and in calibrating UK genomic evaluations for type traits. UK classifiers take part in annual classification workshops to ensure scoring regularity and to obtain knowledge of any changes to scoring for traits.