Affordable Pet Shipping Services for Domestic and International Transport

Your Guide to Finding the Right Pet Shipping Company

Packing up your furry friend and sending them via air or ground transportation can be stressful. From my experience working with pet parents for many years, there are several common concerns that come up when researching pet shipping companies. In this article, I’ll address the top questions and considerations to help you feel more confident about choosing the best option to transport your pet safely.

What qualifications should I look for in a pet shipping company?

1. Licensing and permits: Reputable companies will be licensed by the U.S. Department of Transportation and hold permits from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Centers for Disease Control. Having the proper licensing demonstrates they are compliant with regulations.
2. Veterinary consultants: Look for companies that consult with veterinarians to help with tasks like sedating animals if needed, assessing fitness for travel, and addressing any health issues that arise en route. Veterinary oversight helps ensure your pet’s welfare.
3. Trained staff: Employees who handle animals should know how to safely and calming load, unload and monitor pets during transport. Some companies even require pet care certification. Properly trained staff means less stress for your pet.

Those three key qualifications help ensure a pet shipping company takes the proper precautions and provides quality care. Do your homework to find one you can trust with your furry family member.

What types of pets can be shipped?

Most reputable pet shipping companies can accommodate dogs and cats. Larger pets like rabbits, potbellied pigs, and some birds may also be eligible. However, certain animal breeds or those with special medical needs may have restrictions. It’s always best to ask the company directly about their policies. Basically, healthy cats and dogs under a certain weight cutoff are typically okay to transport.

Exotic pets are possible too, but usually have more rigid rules due to housing needs. Reptiles, rodents, and fish often cannot be shipped at all. If you have anything other than a dog or cat, double check regulations and the carrier’s experience level. Their safety is the top priority.

What paperwork do I need?

According to federal law, all pets that travel between states must have documentation like health certificates and proof of vaccinations. Here’s a quick checklist:

1. Up-to-date vet records showing the pet is fit to fly
2. Vaccination records for rabies and any other required shots
3. Interstate health certificate within 10 days of travel
4. Microchip or tattoo for identification
5. Crate or carrier meeting size/grade requirements
6. Reservation/travel itinerary from the pet shipping company

Be sure to get all paperwork in order a few weeks before your move date. Carriers can deny boarding without the proper docs. Thorough planning helps prevent travel issues.

What are my pet shipping cost options?

Pricing depends on factors like distance, size of pet, and type of service. Generally, rates fall into these rough categories:

1. Ground transport: $150-$350 for medium distances (1-6 days travel). More for longer hauls.
2. Air cargo: $250-$500 on average within the continental US. Add fees if flying to Alaska/Hawaii.
3. Private charter flights: For the ultra wealthy, around $1000-1500 per pet; includes VIP service.
4. Passenger planes: You can fly with small pets in-cabin starting around $100 each way, subject to airline rules.

Higher-end options like pet chauffeurs or climate-controlled trucks are available too, costing well over $1000. So weigh priorities like speed, distance, and budget when selecting a transportation method.

How can I help reduce my pet’s stress?

Even the most well-trained pups and kitties can feel anxious about a big move. Here are some tips that may help:

1. Gradually accustom your pet to their crate with treats and playtime before travel dates.
2. Consider sedation if your vet approves; it can take the edge off for skittish pets.
3. Offer familiar toys/blankets and bring their own food/water along.
4. Provide the carrier company with current photos of Fido for their driver to show him upon pickup/delivery.
5. Send a calming pheromone diffuser product or toy with scents in the crate.
6. Give lots of love and affection up until drop-off for reassurance.

With the proper precautions and TLC, even long-haul shipments can go smoothly. Patience and understanding their point of view goes a long way.

What happens if delays or problems occur?

If only travel was always seamless, right? Unfortunately, baggage gets lost or delayed sometimes. Here’s what to do if issues arise:

1. Contact the carrier ASAP to report any missing pet. Prompt communication kicks search efforts into high gear.
2. Be prepared to help identify your pet and crate through photos or microchip/tags. Descriptions can aid retrieval.
3. Request daily status updates until the little furball turns up safe and sound. Follow up frequently to keep the case active.
4. Understand delay policies involving compensation or reimbursements. Most carriers offer pet insurance too.
5. Find alternatives like boarding if delays extend longer than expected. Better than leaving pooch in limbo.

Even if disaster strikes – and it hopefully won’t – staying calm, patient and proactive helps. Focus on the light at the end of the tunnel.

Any final advice?

Here are some parting words to keep in mind:

1. Book shipping well ahead of time, like at least 1-2 months out. Advance booking gives the best rates and scheduling options.
2. Inspect the carrier before loading Fido. Make sure it’s vehicle-safe, ventilated and not too cramped or exposed.
3. Communicate any special instructions clearly. Note behaviors, medical conditions, what frightens them, etc.
4. Double check flight itineraries if flying. Ask the company to monitor connections/delays proactively.
5. Relax knowing your pet is in good hands! Carriers handle terrified beasts all the time. Trust their experience.

With trustworthy ground or air cargo services, safe interstate pet relocation is very achievable. Careful planning and using an accredited pro like I’ve outlined minimizes worries. Safe travels to you and your pet pal!

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pet Shipping Company

Factor	Details
Reputation	Look for companies that have been in business for many years with many positive reviews and ratings.
Licensing and Insurance	Make sure the company is properly licensed by the USDA and carries liability insurance in case something happens during transport.
Cage/Container Type	Consider your pet’s needs and choose an airline that uses spacious, ventilated carriers.
Tracking and Updates	Opt for a company that provides real-time tracking and status updates so you know where your pet is at all times.
Customer Service	Look for 24/7 support in case you have any questions or concerns before or during your pet’s journey.

FAQ

1. How do pet shipping companies work?

   Basically, pet shipping companies arrange for pets to be transported safely between locations. You work with them to schedule pickup and dropoff dates. They provide cages meeting airline standards and make sure your furry friend has food, water and gets walkies along the journey. It’s sort of like hiring a chauffeur for your pet!

   

2. What kind of animals can be shipped?

   Most pet shipping companies can transport dogs and cats. Some may also deliver smaller critters like rabbits, birds or reptiles. However, exotic pets usually need to go by air in the cargo hold rather than as carry-on. At the same time, certain breeds with brachycephalic issues like pugs may have trouble flying due to short noses.

3. How much does it cost to ship a pet?

   Pricing depends on size, distance, special needs and time of year. For a Yorkshire terrier shipped from New York to L.A., you’re looking at around $350-500 on average. However, larger doggos could be $700-900. Winter rates tend to be higher because animals feel the cold. Perhaps budget $20-30 per pound as a rough guide. Is that fair?

4. What happens during a pet transport?

   Basically, your furry friend will have an attendant with them every step of the way. At pickup, they get cozy in an airline-approved crate. Along the journey, attendants check on them regularly for things like potty breaks, food/water and human interaction. Finally, they’re delivered right to your door! Amazingly, over 99% of pets make it safely to their destination.

5. How can I prepare my pet for travel?

   It’s a good idea to get your pet used to their crate before transport day. Throw treats and toys inside so the crate is a positive place. Consider calming aids like pheromone sprays and calming chews for flight day too. Don’t overfeed beforehand, but be sure to pack any medicine or food as required. Could introducing a travel crate a month before help reduce stress?

6. What if my pet gets lost during shipping?

   Reputable companies have sophisticated tracking systems. Thanks to things like embedded microchips, travel documents and GPS, the chance of pets actually getting separated from their crew is slim. Nevertheless, zero is the only acceptable number. I wonder what the protocol is if Fido does take an unexpected detour? Contacting the company ASAP seems like a good start.

   

7. Can I travel with my pet?

   While you can’t have pets in your lap on planes anymore for safety, many airline carriers do allow pets to fly in the cargo hold or as carry-on depending on size. You’d need to purchase an extra ticket and follow any documentation/vaccine rules. I bet it’s awesome getting to surprise a friend with your fur baby’s visit in person!

So in summary, reputable pet shipping companies can handle transporting your beloved critter. But it’s always best to plan and prepare to reduce their stress. What do the experts recommend – are there any studies on the well-being impacts of pet relocation?