In modern confinement dairies, cows move between groups depending on management needs for special rations and special handling requirements. With each move, each cow must establish rank within the new group. Extended stays in pens characterized by new arrivals every day appear to present substantial health risks to some cows. Overstocked pens present challenges regarding both stall and feed bunk access. Provision of 30 inches (76 cm) of bunk space per cow in the weeks before and after calving, and minimizing pen moves, appears to be consistent with improved fresh cow health and productivity.