The method of milk collection from farms and distribution to receiving centres in Northern Ireland is described. Price adjustments based on total bacterial counts (TBCs) have led to an improvement in the bacterial quality of milk on the farm. Current data are quoted. The importance of collection procedures, and tanker design and cleaning, on the TBC of milk at the receiving centre is discussed. It is concluded that increases in TBC during collection and distribution are marginal ij the proper procedures are used.