Pet Shipping Costs: What to Expect and How to Plan

If you’ve ever tried to figure out what it really costs to ship a pet, you know how confusing it can be. One guide lists prices in the hundreds, while another lists prices in the thousands, and both can be correct.

Pet shipping costs vary widely depending on your pet’s size, breed, health needs, and whether you’re moving across the country or internationally. This guide breaks down what actually drives those costs so you know what to expect and how to find the best option for your pet’s travel.

Average Pet Shipping Costs

How much does it cost to ship a dog? For domestic moves, ground transport for shorter trips often ranges from $150 to $700. A domestic flight for a medium-sized dog typically costs between $500 and $2,000. A cross-country ground relocation with multiple stops can approach $3,500 or more.

For international moves, shipping a pet overseas typically costs between $1,000 and $6,000, although more complicated cases can take that number even higher. In-cabin travel may cost less upfront, but you’ll still need to meet that destination’s import requirements.

While these numbers provide a frame of reference, the best way to understand the true cost of your pet’s move is to work with a professional who can account for all the details.

Air vs. Ground Transport (U.S. Travel)

When moving pets within the U.S., you can typically choose between air travel and ground transport, each with its own costs, advantages, and considerations. 

Air Transport

Flying is often the fastest option, but costs vary based on pet size, distance, and airline rules. Domestic air transport for a medium-sized dog usually ranges from $500 to $2,000, while smaller pets may cost less. 

Pets can fly in-cabin or in the cargo hold. Small dogs and cats may travel in-cabin, but many pets still fly cargo because it often provides a more direct journey with fewer connections. That’s why we prefer it for our clients’ pets. It’s a safe, efficient way for pets to reach their destinations.

For pets in cargo, airlines require IATA-approved crates that meet standards for safety, comfort, and ventilation. Seasonal weather can also affect availability and cost.

Ground Transport

Ground transport is typically priced by mileage, though exact rates vary. Many U.S. pet transport companies quote around $0.50-$2.00 per mile, but this depends on pet needs, the number of pets, and any stops made along your pet’s journey. 

Short regional trips may cost only a few hundred dollars, while full‑service, cross‑country moves with overnight boarding for a larger dog can approach $3,500 or more. Ground transport can quickly become more than what you’d pay to fly your pet from coast to coast. 

In some cases, you may need to combine both flights and ground transportation for your pet’s move. If your pet isn’t able to fly to their new home due to their breed, age, or health requirements, we can help you arrange ground pet relocation services as an alternative to flying.

International Pet Travel Costs

International pet shipping costs are generally higher than those for domestic moves due to additional regulations, documentation, and specialized care requirements. Beyond airfare and crates, international travel often involves import permits, rabies titer tests, USDA endorsements, and sometimes quarantine.

Costs vary widely by destination. For most international moves, the cost of pet transport typically ranges between $1,000 and $6,000. Complex cases or strict regulations can push costs higher. Countries like Australia have mandatory quarantines and import requirements that can approach $2,000 for the minimum 10-day stay and importation fees alone. 

How much does it cost to fly a cat internationally? In-cabin pets, such as cats, may be able to fly to less complex destinations, like countries within the EU or Canada, for around $400+. Some destinations, no matter a pet’s size, require that pets arrive as cargo as part of their import processes.

Tailwind helps navigate these requirements every step of the way. As one of only seven CDC-approved Animal Care Facilities (ACFs) in the U.S., we manage everything from pre-flight prep to post-arrival release for safer, smoother travel.

What Affects the Total Price

Many of the costs involved in pet shipping aren’t immediately obvious when you get a quote. These behind-the-scenes expenses often include crate requirements, veterinary paperwork, and boarding or additional services. 

Pet Size and Crate Requirements

Airlines and transport companies charge based on pet size and crate dimensions. Travel crate fees vary by size and purpose, as well. 

Large dogs need bigger crates, and some breeds, like strong-jawed or snub-nosed dogs, may require custom or reinforced crates, which can start at $600. Mid-size plastic crates for larger pets typically range from $300 to $500, while small airline-approved crates can be under $100.

Small pets may fly in-cabin, but many still travel in cargo for a more direct, less stressful trip. Again, some destinations require that pets arrive in cargo regardless of size. All crates must be IATA-approved to meet strict standards for safety, comfort, and ventilation.

Veterinary Paperwork and Health Certificates

Traveling pets typically need valid health certificates, microchips, and up-to-date rabies vaccinations. For domestic travel, a USDA-endorsed health certificate for pets that require one typically costs $50-$150 and is usually valid for 10-30 days.

International moves require additional documentation. This can include rabies titers, USDA endorsements, and import permits, and may cost $200-$500+. The cost depends on your pet and destination. Some countries require additional blood tests or treatments before travel.

Planning ahead is essential. Many certificates and endorsements have strict expiration windows, and delays or missing paperwork can result in increased costs.

Additional Fees and Services

In addition to standard transport costs, pet owners may encounter fees for extra services and logistics. These can include:

• Boarding/Layovers: Pets may require overnight care during long trips, which can cost $50-$150 per night.
• Pickup/Drop-Off: Transport services for picking up or dropping off your pet can range from $50-$300, depending on distance and service level.
• Customs Clearance/Import Fees: Completing paperwork and clearing customs can add $100-$500 or more, depending on the destination.
• Consultation/Planning Fees: Personalized support, including vet or travel consultations, can cost $50-$200, depending on your needs.

Optional services, like door-to-door service, first-class boarding, and concierge support, may also increase total pet relocation costs.

If you’re traveling through Los Angeles, we can add a relaxing rest stop at our first-class boarding facility, Kennel Club LAX. This can be a good option for anxious pets who need a wellness check from one of our USDA-accredited vets along the way. 

Seasonal, Breed, & Special Needs Considerations

Seasonal travel can affect both availability and cost. Airlines often impose summer and winter embargoes during extreme heat or cold in U.S. destinations like Florida and Alaska and abroad. That may require alternative travel dates or ground transport, increasing your overall expenses.

Certain breeds require special attention. Snub-nosed or brachycephalic breeds like bulldogs and pugs often need larger or reinforced crates to accommodate breathing challenges. (That’s if they’re allowed to travel at all.) Strong-jawed breeds may require customized, reinforced crates.

Pets with special needs, including medication requirements, anxiety, or frequent breaks, may require layovers, rest stops, or overnight boarding, adding to both logistics and cost. Planning ahead ensures safer travel for your pet while helping manage expenses.

Military Pet Travel Reimbursement

Active U.S. military members relocating to a new base may qualify for partial reimbursement for pet travel. Eligible service members can receive up to $550 for moves within the continental U.S. and up to $2,000 for moves outside the continental U.S.

For PCS orders to high-risk rabies countries where military-contracted or commercial services aren’t available, reimbursements can go up to $4,000. Covered expenses include microchipping, vaccinations, quarantine, boarding, health certificates, and transportation fees.

FAQs

Let Our Team Handle the Details

Every pet move is unique, so exact costs depend on the type of pet, route, and any special needs. At Tailwind Global Pet, we create personalized plans to handle every detail, from paperwork and crates to transport and care, so your pet travels safely and smoothly.

Here’s how it works:

• Request a Quote: Get an individualized estimate based on your pet and travel plans.
• Consultation: We discuss your pet’s temperament, documentation, and special needs with you via phone or video conference (Zoom).
• Customized Service: We adjust your quote to fit your pet’s needs and ensure a stress-free move.

With over 40 years of experience managing every detail of animal transportation, we prioritize your beloved pet’s well-being every step of the way.

Ready to get started? Each pet relocation situation is different. To get an idea of the costs involved, fill out a free quote request.