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Last month, my friend Sarah was at her wit’s end trying to figure out how to relocate her pets safely from Seattle to Boston. Her elderly Golden Retriever and two cats needed extra care for the journey, and the thought of placing them in cargo was nerve-wracking. “I was losing sleep,” she told me. “I wanted them in safe, reliable hands.”
If you’re feeling the same way, you’re in the right place. With years of experience in the pet relocation industry, I’ve seen which companies truly make a difference. Below, I’ve reviewed the top 5 pet shipping companies in the USA to help you make a confident choice
How to Choose Good Pet Transportation Services
Before finalizing pet movers near you, it helps to know the essentials that set the best services apart. Here’s what to look for:
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USDA Certification & IPATA Membership
These credentials confirm that a company follows regulated safety guidelines for pet transport.
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Insurance Coverage
Look for comprehensive pet moving insurance to cover unexpected situations.
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24/7 Transport Support
Round-the-clock support gives you peace of mind on travel day.
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Experience with Your Pet Type
Special needs, exotic animals, and even different dog breeds may require an animal transport company with specific experience.
Top 5 Pet Shipping Companies in US for 2025
Here are the companies that topped my list, with insights into their services, pricing, and cons or what real customers have experienced.
#1. Airpets International– 4.8⭐
Best for: Premium pet relocation services, affordable international pet moving, and complex pet relocations.
Airpets International has over 30 years of experience and offers door-to-door service in 180+ countries. They provide a dedicated travel consultant for each case to ensure your pet travels comfortably.
Pros and Cons of Airpets International
Pros Cons
✅Custom travel plans ❌ Expensive domestic pet moving services
✅Ship pets other than cats and dogs ❌ Getting detailed quotes online is tricky
✅Real-time tracking via app
✅Comprehensive personalized services
like pet travel nannies, safe boarding
✅Sorting out travel and other necessary permits
✅Access to global veterinary networks.
Price: Domestic pet moving services: $1,000-$2,000; international pet shipping services: $3000-$4500.
#2. Pet Express– 4.9⭐
Best for: International pet transportation services.
Pet Express provides a range of services, from basic ground transport to VIP service with hourly updates. Their certified pet travel consultants design custom travel plans as per your pet’s needs.
Pros and Cons of Pet Express
Pros Cons
✅Climate-controlled fleet ❌ Don’t offer domestic pet transport services
✅Emergency veterinary network ❌ Only transport dogs and cats
✅Advanced pet monitoring
✅Customizable pet shipping services
✅Experienced and mature pet moving company.
Price: Customized quotes based on location.
#3. Royal Paws Pet Transportation– 4 ⭐
Best for: High-end ground transport and special needs pets.
Royal Paws is ideal for transporting pets that need extra care, providing two drivers to avoid overnight boarding, and customizing each trip for comfort. They also provide real-time social media updates on request.
Pros and Cons of Royal Paws Pet Transportation
Pros Cons
✅Custom bedding ❌ Don’t provide international pet moving services
✅Perfect for reactive pets ❌Minimum 500 miles’ trip length is required
✅ Climate-controlled carriers ❌No pricing information is available online
✅Private pet transport services in 49 states
✅On-the road exercises.
Price: Available on request.
#4. Blue Collar Pet Transport– 4 ⭐
Best for: Budget-friendly, ground-based pet transport.
Blue Collar is a great option for long-distance relocations without air travel. They offer reliable ground-based transport services for moving pets.
Pros and Cons of Blue Collar Pet Transport
Pros Cons
✅Private pet transport ❌Pricing available only on request
✅Best pet movers in Florida ❌Usual shipment time can be up to 14 days
✅First-aid and CPR-certified pet moving drivers
✅Shared ride pet transport
✅USDA-registered and IPATA-certified.
Price: Customized pricing available only on request.
#5. Starwood Animal Transport– 4⭐
Best for: International pet moving services.
Starwood is a third-party pet transporting company specializing in complex international relocations, with a team that handles quarantine requirements, paperwork, and door-to-door delivery worldwide.
Pros and Cons of Starwood Animal Transport
Pros Cons
✅Real-time pet moving and shipping updated ❌Third-party pet moving
✅Flight nanny services ❌Potential higher moving costs
✅Veterinary services during travel
✅Pet protection plans for emergencies and trip interruptions
✅Member of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association, or IPATA.
Price: Available on request.
FAQs
1. How can I help my pet adjust to their travel crate?
Start early by letting them explore the crate, and add treats or toys to create positive associations.
2. Are pet shipping companies safe for pets with medical conditions?
Yes, many companies specialize in handling special needs pets. Just make sure they have protocols and trained staff for medical issues.
3. How much notice do I need to give when booking pet transport?
Ideally, give them as much lead time as possible. Many companies recommend booking 2-4 weeks ahead, especially for international moves.
4. How much do pet transport services cost in US?
The cost varies based on your pet’s journey and travel method.
If you’re flying domestically, expect to pay around $1,500 if your pet needs to travel in cargo; this covers both the flight and required vet paperwork.
Have a small pet that can fit under the seat? You’ll only need to budget between $125-300 for in-cabin travel.
For ground transportation, a 10-hour journey typically costs between $2,200 and $2,400. And a cross-country pet transport could reach $6,000-$6,400.
Most companies charge between $0.50 and $1.60 per mile.
Moving your pet internationally is the most expensive option, starting at $4,500 for complete door-to-door service.
Keep in mind– you might need to pay extra for required documentation or quarantine periods.
Since every pet and journey is unique, we recommend getting a personalized quote that factors in your specific needs and destination.
