The aim of this study was to assess the number of bruises per beef carcass and determine the age of each one considering the animal categories as underlying factor. Data were collected between January 2011 and January 2012, assessing 22234 beef carcasses. Five cattle categories were assessed: young bulls, steers, old bulls, heifers and cows. It was used the Australian Carcass Bruise Score System (with adaptations) in order to characterize the bruises. Data were analyzed by Generalized Linear Models using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS 9.2 program. The results show high incidence of bruises on female carcasses, mostly explained by the presence of new bruises. This may be an indicator of females increased susceptibility to problems during loading, transport, unloading and handling in slaughterhouses. We conclude from the present study that there are low levels of animal welfare during pre-slaughter handling and economic loses. It should be stated that companies that are able to fulfill animal welfare demands and that ensure the final quality of their products, remain in a leading position in the market, adding ethical value to this products with consequent reduction of economical loses.