Shipping pets overseas isn’t as simple as booking a ticket and buying a crate. From government regulations to your pet’s health and comfort, international pet shipping comes with a lot of moving parts—and even more paperwork. Before you commit, it’s important to evaluate whether your pet is truly ready for the journey ahead.

Before starting the international pet shipping process, consider the following 10 key points.

1. Can Your Pet Handle International Travel?

Not all pets are good candidates for long-distance travel. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds—like Bulldogs, Pugs, or Persian cats—are especially vulnerable to breathing difficulties in flight and may even be restricted by airlines. Age, anxiety, or medical conditions may also make travel risky.

What to do:

• Talk to your veterinarian about your pet’s travel readiness.
• For high-risk pets, consider alternate transport options like temperature-controlled ground travel.
• For small pets, explore airlines that allow in-cabin travel.

In some cases, postponing relocation or finding a caregiver may be the safest choice.

2. Does Your Destination Allow Pets Like Yours?

Every country has different laws about importing pets. Some restrict certain dog breeds or exotic pets, while others may prohibit animals from countries classified as high-risk for rabies.

Where to look:

• Check with the country’s embassy or ministry of agriculture.
• Use the USDA APHIS Pet Travel tool: usda.gov
• If you’re unsure, a pet shipping specialist can verify current regulations for your destination.

3. What Are the Quarantine Rules for International Pet Shipping?

Countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Japan require strict quarantine periods—sometimes up to several months. Others allow direct entry if all documentation is perfectly in order.

How to decide:

• Can you be separated from your pet for the required period?
• Will the quarantine environment be safe and humane?
• Are you prepared to cover the extra cost?

4. How Complex Is the Paperwork?

International pet shipping often involves layers of documentation: microchip proof, import permits, health certificates, vaccine records, and more. The timing of each item matters, and mistakes can mean denied entry.

Helpful tips:

• Keep both digital and physical copies of all documents.
• Follow a timeline for vaccines, microchipping, and paperwork submission.
• Use the USDA APHIS site or consult a relocation expert to make sure your documents are in order.

5. How Much Will International Pet Shipping Cost?

Shipping pets overseas can be expensive. Costs typically include vet visits, health certificates, flight charges, customs fees, and ground transportation—plus unexpected expenses if there are delays or reroutes.

What to do:

• Get a full quote from a pet relocation service.
• Be sure to ask about hidden costs, like airline handling fees or customs clearance.
• Compare services carefully—not all include the same scope.

6. Are You Comfortable Navigating Airline Regulations?

Each airline has its own rules for shipping pets internationally, including acceptable crate sizes, temperature restrictions, prohibited breeds, and cargo policies. You may need to coordinate with multiple carriers depending on your route.

Where to start:

• Check the “Traveling with Pets” section on the airline’s website.
• Contact the airline’s cargo department for specifics.
• Some airlines require pet transport to be arranged through IPATA-certified agents.

7. What Will the Journey Be Like for Your Pet?

Flights can involve long crate times, noisy cargo areas, unfamiliar handlers, and unpredictable layovers. For pets, that can be disorienting and stressful.

How to help your pet:

• Choose direct flights when possible.
• Look for airlines with animal handling programs or climate-controlled holding areas.
• Ask what happens to pets during layovers and delays.

8. Are You Prepared for Delays or Pet Shipping Emergencies?

Weather issues, customs holdups, or airline changes can create delays that impact your pet’s safety and comfort. Having a backup plan is essential.

Emergency prep checklist:

• Designate an emergency contact on both ends of the trip.
• Keep all paperwork in one accessible folder.
• Have your pet’s microchip registered and easily traceable.
• Know who to call in case your pet’s flight changes.

9. How Will You Handle Arrival Logistics?

Once your pet lands, they’ll need to clear customs, which might involve separate terminals, additional paperwork, and long wait times. In some cases, a licensed broker is required.

Things to plan for:

• Who will pick up your pet if you’re not on the same flight?
• Will you need a customs agent or pet taxi service?
• Can your pet be safely transported from the airport to your new home?

10. Should You Do This Alone?

Coordinating everything from vet visits to international paperwork and customs can feel overwhelming, especially during a big life move. Many pet parents choose to work with professionals to reduce stress and avoid costly mistakes.

Not sure if you need full-service help? Some companies offer à la carte services (like document prep or flight booking). Even a one-time consultation with a pet shipping expert can clarify next steps.

Final Thoughts on Pet Shipping

Pet shipping—especially international pet shipping—is a serious undertaking. By asking the right questions and exploring your options, you’ll be better prepared to make the best decision for your pet and your family.

Need help navigating the process? At AirPets International, we’ve helped families safely relocate pets to destinations worldwide. Whether you seek guidance or full-service support, we’re here to make your journey easier