The short answer: what pet shipping actually costs

Domestic pet shipping typically costs $300 to $3,000. International moves run $2,000 to $7,000 or more. The range is wide because no two pet moves are the same. A small dog flying in-cabin from New York to Los Angeles is a completely different job than a large breed traveling cargo to Tokyo with a USDA health certificate and a 180-day rabies titer test.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay, what drives the price, and where hidden costs tend to show up.

Domestic pet shipping costs

In-cabin (airline carry-on)

If your pet fits under the seat in an airline-approved carrier (usually under 20 pounds including the carrier), most airlines charge $95 to $200 each way. You book this directly with the airline, and your pet flies in the cabin with you.

This is the least expensive option, but it only works for small dogs, cats, and some small animals. Weight and size limits vary by airline, so check before you book.

Cargo (airline pet program)

Larger pets fly in the pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo hold. Airline cargo programs typically cost $200 to $700 for domestic routes, depending on the airline, route, and crate size.

You will also need an airline-compliant crate ($50 to $300 depending on size) and a health certificate from your vet ($100 to $250). Some airlines require a vet visit within 10 days of travel.

Full-service domestic relocation

When you hire a pet relocation service to handle everything, domestic moves typically cost $1,500 to $3,000. This covers route planning, airline booking, crate selection and setup, vet coordination, health certificate logistics, airport pickup and delivery, and updates throughout the trip.

The premium covers coordination and risk management. Your relocation advisor handles booking timing (avoiding heat and cold embargoes), makes sure the paperwork is correct before your pet reaches the airport, and deals with any last-minute airline changes.

Ground transport

Pet ground transport by van or dedicated vehicle costs $500 to $2,500 for domestic routes. Price depends on distance, whether the transport is shared or private, and whether the route is direct or includes stops.

Ground transport works well for brachycephalic breeds (bulldogs, pugs, boxers) that many airlines restrict from cargo, or for owners who prefer to avoid air travel entirely.

International pet shipping costs

International moves are more complex and more expensive. Expect $2,000 to $7,000 or more for a full-service international relocation. Here’s why the range is so wide.

Straightforward routes (USA to Canada or Mexico): $1,500 to $3,000. The paperwork is relatively simple, and flight options are plentiful. See our Canada and Mexico destination guides.

Moderate routes (USA to UK, Germany, France): $3,000 to $5,000. You will need a USDA-endorsed health certificate, a microchip (ISO 15-digit), current rabies vaccination, and EU-compliant documentation. No quarantine required if the paperwork is correct. See our UK, Germany, and France guides.

Complex routes (USA to Australia, Japan, Singapore): $4,000 to $7,000+. These destinations have strict import processes. Australia requires a minimum 10-day quarantine at the Mickleham facility. Japan requires a rabies titer test (FAVN test) at least 180 days before travel. Both add time, steps, and cost.

What drives the price up or down

Several factors affect your total cost:

Pet size and weight. Larger pets need bigger crates and take up more cargo space. A Great Dane costs significantly more to fly than a Chihuahua.

Route and destination. Direct flights cost less than routes with connections. Remote destinations may require more complex routing.

Season. Summer heat embargoes and winter cold embargoes limit available routes and timing, sometimes adding cost or forcing alternative routing.

Documentation requirements. Some countries require blood tests, import permits, quarantine reservations, or multiple vet visits. Each step adds cost.

Crate. IATA-compliant crates range from $50 for small carriers to $300+ for large breed crates. Your pet needs room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Level of service. Booking your own airline cargo slot and handling paperwork yourself is cheaper. Hiring a relocation service to manage everything costs more but removes the risk of missed steps or rejected paperwork at the airport.

Hidden costs to watch for

A few expenses catch people off guard:

  • Vet visits for the health certificate: $100 to $250 per visit, and you may need more than one
  • USDA endorsement fee: $38 per certificate
  • Microchipping (if not already done): $25 to $75
  • Rabies titer test (FAVN test, required by some countries): $150 to $300, plus months of waiting time
  • Import permits (Australia, Singapore, Japan, others): $50 to $200
  • Quarantine fees (Australia): roughly $2,000+ for the mandatory stay
  • Crate accessories (water dish, absorbent bedding, labeling): $20 to $50

How to get an accurate quote

Every pet move is different. The only way to get a real number is to share your specifics: where you are moving, when, what kind of pet, how big, and which destination. We put together a detailed plan and price based on the actual route and requirements.

Ready to start planning your pet’s move?

Request a quote and we will put together a detailed plan and price for your specific route.

Prefer to talk? Give us a call at 1-877-540-0555.

Frequently asked questions

Is it cheaper to fly with my pet in-cabin?

Yes, in-cabin is the least expensive option at $95 to $200 per flight. But it only works for small pets, usually under 20 pounds with the carrier. Larger pets must fly cargo or travel by ground.

Why is international pet shipping so expensive?

International moves involve government paperwork (health certificates, USDA endorsement), airline cargo booking, destination-specific import rules, and sometimes quarantine. Each step requires coordination and compliance with tight timing windows. The cost reflects the complexity and the expertise needed to get it right the first time.

Can I handle the move myself to save money?

You can handle domestic in-cabin moves yourself without much trouble. For cargo and international moves, the paperwork and timing requirements are where most issues come up. A health certificate signed too early can expire before travel day. A missing microchip number on the form can get your pet held at customs. Many owners find professional help worth the cost for the reduced risk.

Does pet insurance cover shipping costs?

Most standard pet insurance policies do not cover relocation or shipping costs. Some premium plans offer limited travel coverage. Check your specific policy before counting on it.

How far in advance should I book?

For domestic moves, 2 to 4 weeks is usually enough. For international moves, start planning 2 to 6 months ahead. Countries that require rabies titer tests or import permits with long processing times need more lead time. Contact us and we can tell you exactly how much lead time your destination needs.