How Much Does International Pet Shipping Cost

How Much Does International Pet Shipping Cost?

  • January 18, 2022

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Introduction

When you are planning to move across the country or just change your house within the United States, there are so many expenses to manage. And when you are a pet owner, this will become one of the stressful jobs to handle. 

Transporting a pet can create many problems. Costs regarding international pet shipping may vary on many factors such as size and species of pet, distance, required vaccinations, vet services. You have one more option such as hiring a pet shipping company, especially when it comes to international pet shipping. Still, there is a long list of costs involved when you plan international pet shipping.

You must be wondering what will be the international pet shipping costs? How much money should I keep aside when shipping pets internationally? Well, you do not need to worry about that because I have tried to cover up all the expenses that will occur in your pet international pet shipping.

Factors Affecting International Pet Shipping Costs

1. Distance- An Unavoidable Factor

If you choose to ship your dog within the United States., then you must consider ground transportation. But before finalizing this option you should have some calculations regarding the distance. As distance is one of the many factors that impact international pet shipping costs. Because of this COVID-19 situation, very few airlines accept pets.

When it comes to shipping your pet to a close location by group transportation, it may just cost you around $100. But when you think about transporting your pet to another country then it may cost several thousand dollars. 

The cost of pet relocation depends on whether it is a domestic trip or overseas. When you are moving near your neighborhood, you won’t have much distance to cover. And for pet relocation service, it cuts your total expenses as well. For a domestic trip, it may cost you around $1000. This could advantage your pet for fewer hours on a road trip, less human interaction, and fewer problems related to pet transport service.

When you are traveling abroad or to a remote area and choosing road transportation as your shipping option, you will need to classify every cost that occurs during the trip. There are many pet transportation services in the USA which take care of your pet when he/she is traveling internationally. For worldwide traveling, ground transportation costs around $2200- $2400.

2. Size Of Your Pet

International pet shipping rates depend on the size of the pet as well. Whether you have a small cat or a big dog, you have to take out some extra dollars for it. The size and type of your pet will directly affect your costs when you are shipping your pet internationally. Smaller size pets are much easier to handle while traveling hence they are less expensive to ship. 

Why should you think about the size of the pet? The answer is the size of the pet will decide whether you should buy a small crate or a bigger one for your pet. Small crate’s price range between $35 to $200. For a big crate, you can spend around $300 to $571. Based on that, you can manage your pet shipping cost estimate international.

3. Vet Visits and Vaccinations

When you are choosing to ship your dog via air, first you will need a health certificate before 10 days of travel. To make sure your pet is healthy and there is no contagious disease, you must visit the veterinarian. Costs for vet visits differ according to the veterinarian but mostly their price ranges between $75-$250.

Before the travel date, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVM) requires a certificate of veterinary inspection from a certified veterinarian. A certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) will cost you between $50-$200.

Pet shipping international rates include other expenses as well such as giving rabies vaccination. This vaccination certificate should be issued 30 days prior to the travel date or a year for international travel. Rabies vaccinations may cost about $25-$50. There are other tests too like microchip implant which will cost you around the same as rabies vaccination’s price $25-$50. 

Additional health certificates are essential depending upon every country’s requirement. Many countries ask for USDA endorsement when your pet is entering their country. This can cost you between $38-$173 based on your pet.

There are other check-ups as well for your pet before traveling such as blood tests and parasite treatments. These check-ups are more expensive but eventually, it is good for your pet in the end. Your pet needs to go through one health exam which will cost you $50-$250. 

4. Pet Shipping Company

When you are moving abroad, of course, you will stress about your international pet shipping costs. You have so much to consider while deciding your budget for your travel and your pets’. But you should not worry because many pet shipping companies will fully take care of your pet while traveling.

Pet shipping company will take care of services such as pet travel assessment and preparation, building travel plan, booking of pet travel itinerary, veterinarian check-ups, arranging crates for his/her comfort, and handling all the logistics required. Because of their services, this will be less stressful for you.

For an easy process, they sometimes arrange one representative throughout your pet’s travel journey. If you are choosing ground transportation for your pet shipping, they will make sure that your pet’s driver is fully responsible or not.

When you are planning to move within the United States of America, such pet shipping companies charge around $4500. When it is outside of the United States you can make a budget around $5500.

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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

  • How much does international pet shipping typically cost?

    International pet shipping typically ranges from $1,000 to over $5,000 depending on factors like destination, pet size, airline fees, crate requirements, and health certifications. Some countries also require quarantine or special permits, which can add to the cost. Earthrelo provides detailed, customized quotes based on your pet’s travel needs. Our team handles the logistics, paperwork, and comfort of your furry friend—ensuring safety, compliance, and peace of mind for you.

  • What factors affect the cost of shipping a pet overseas?

    Key factors include the destination country, type and size of the pet, flight duration, crate size, documentation, and veterinary requirements. Seasonal airline pricing and quarantine rules also impact costs. Earthrelo tailors every quote based on these factors and offers transparent pricing with no hidden charges. Our experts simplify international pet shipping so you can focus on your move while we ensure your pet travels safely and legally.

  • Are there hidden fees in international pet transport?

    Hidden fees can appear in the form of additional customs charges, vet visits, crate upgrades, or last-minute airline surcharges. To avoid surprises, work with a reputable company that provides full cost breakdowns. Earthrelo believes in full transparency. We walk you through all costs upfront—no guesswork, no surprises. Our pet relocation experts make sure you understand every fee, so your pet’s journey and your budget are both well-prepared.

  • Is it cheaper to ship a pet internationally by air or ground?

    Air transport is the most common and efficient option for international pet shipping. While ground transport may seem cheaper, it’s generally only suitable for domestic relocations. Air shipping is faster and safer for pets on long-distance moves. Earthrelo specializes in air transport for international pet relocation, offering trusted airline partnerships, proper handling, and climate-controlled environments to keep your pet comfortable throughout the journey.

  • Do airlines charge different rates for pet relocation?

    Yes, airlines set their own rates based on pet size, destination, and service class (cargo or cabin). These charges can vary widely, with some carriers offering bundled pet travel services. Earthrelo helps you compare airline options and chooses the most suitable route based on your pet’s needs and your budget. We negotiate and coordinate directly with airlines, saving you time and ensuring your pet flies with the safest and most pet-friendly providers.

  • Can I get a quote for international pet shipping in advance?

    Absolutely. Reputable companies like Earthrelo offer custom quotes based on your pet’s breed, weight, origin, destination, and travel preferences. Providing this information early helps us generate an accurate estimate and prepare all documentation in advance. At Earthrelo, we offer fast, obligation-free quotes so you can plan ahead confidently. Our team ensures your pet’s relocation is smooth, budget-conscious, and fully compliant with international regulations.

  • Are there extra costs for large pets or special breeds?

    Yes, larger pets often require oversized crates and incur higher airline fees. Some special breeds—particularly snub-nosed dogs like bulldogs or pugs—may have additional handling or route restrictions, which can increase the cost. Earthrelo is experienced in relocating pets of all sizes and breeds. We factor these needs into your personalized quote and provide tailored care to ensure your pet’s safety, comfort, and compliance with airline and country regulations.

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