Delving into the rules and regulations of airlines, exploring various flight choices, and understanding import prerequisites can be a time-consuming endeavor. However, by enlisting the services of a trustworthy pet transportation company, you can effortlessly delegate these responsibilities. This will not only save you precious time but also enable you to concentrate on other vital duties.
Reputable pet shipping services are USDA certified and will not advertise on sites like Craigslist or Facebook, nor must you pay them via Western Union or Venmo. This is a red flag.
Experience
A pet shipping service can make relocation for your pet seamless and hassle-free. They know the rules and regulations for transporting pets to different countries. They can also inform you about vaccination requirements and quarantines in your destination country. They can book flights considering kennel space availability and shepherd your pet through customs.
They can also lodge your pet during a flight disruption or extended pauses, preventing the animal from spending too much time inside its crate. In addition, they can provide cleaning services after the flight so that your pet is ready for its homecoming.
Check online reviews and testimonials to see what other pet parents have experienced with a particular international pet transport service. The USDA regulates pet transportation businesses; most should mention their approval or endorsement anywhere on their website.
Reputation
Finding a business with a solid reputation is vital when looking for a pet transport service. One of the best ways to do this is by reading customer testimonials on popular review websites. It is also important to note if the pet transport service you are considering sticks to the commitments they establish during the quote and consultation process.
International pet shipping services help pet owners coordinate travel logistics with airlines, gather necessary travel documentation and monitor pets throughout the journey. Some even have contingency plans in case of flight delays or cancellations.
Air pet transportation is the most common form of pet transport, and many companies offer this service. is one example of an online pet shipping platform that allows you to connect with pet transporters directly to receive bids for your pet’s journey.
Safety
A good pet transport service is licensed and bonded with the USDA, and they should mention this on their website. They also should provide IATA-approved travel crates, microchipping, and help with the paperwork required for your pets’ journey.
They should also be able to advise you on the requirements of your destination country, including any quarantine periods. Some companies even provide concierge services and ground transportation for an additional cost. This option may be more suitable for pets prone to stress and anxiety, especially if they have medical conditions that can be exacerbated by air travel. It’s also a better choice for pets who don’t enjoy traveling or getting on planes. They’ll be happier and safer when driven to their new home.
Flexibility
Choosing a pet transport service can be a lifesaver during a move, as they handle the logistics of booking flights and running travel documents. They will help ensure your pet has the required vaccinations, certificates, and blood work. They will also assist with quarantine if necessary.
Some pet transportation services also offer grooming and boarding options following the journey. They can also board pets during layovers or delays if needed, so they do not have to stay in their crate for extended periods.
Look for a pet transport company that adheres to USDA regulations. You can verify this by examining their website or asking them. This will ensure that your pet will be well cared for during their transport and have a safe trip to their destination.
Cost
The cost of pet transportation services can vary significantly depending on the chosen service and where the pets are being relocated. For example, some charge a one-time fee for pet relocation services, including flight arrangements, logistics coordination, customs assistance, and boarding reservations.
Other factors impacting the cost include pet size if they require an IATA-approved travel crate, and the timeframe for transport. Some services offer additional amenities, such as grooming and boarding options for pets following their flight or layovers.
Finally, any pet transport company needs to be USDA accredited. This ensures that they adhere to animal welfare standards during transportation, and customers can verify this on the company’s website or by asking a representative.
