Moving with your pet isn't just logistics—it's about your animal's safety, comfort, and wellbeing during a stressful transition. Whether you're relocating across the country or internationally, choosing the right pet transport company can mean the difference between a smooth journey and a traumatic one. This checklist walks you through vetting pet relocation providers so you hire someone trustworthy.
License and Insurance Are Non-Negotiable
Before you even discuss pricing, verify that any company holds the proper credentials. Domestic pet transporters should be licensed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) if they're moving pets interstate; international movers require IATA (International Air Transport Association) certification for air travel. Ask directly for their license number and confirm it on the official registry.
Insurance is equally critical. Request proof of liability insurance (typically $100,000–$1 million in coverage) and ask what it actually covers—some policies exclude injury or death claims. A reputable company will provide this documentation without hesitation.
Experience and Specialization Matter
Pet transport isn't generic shipping. Ask how many years the company has been operating, specifically with animals, and whether they specialize in your pet's species and size. Transporting a toy poodle requires different protocols than moving a 90-pound German Shepherd or a bird with specific temperature needs.
Request references from recent clients—and actually call them. Ask about:
- Arrival condition and behavior of their pet
- Communication frequency during transport
- How the company handled unexpected issues
Understand Their Transport Method
Different routes suit different animals. The main options are:
- Ground transport only: Typically $2,000–$5,000 for cross-country moves; slower but less stressful for some pets and fewer health risks
- Air transport: $3,000–$8,000+ depending on distance and pet size; faster but requires health certificates and can be anxiety-inducing
- Hybrid routes: Ground to a hub, air for middle distance, then ground delivery; often $3,500–$7,000
- Door-to-door service: Premium option ($4,000–$10,000+) that minimizes transfers and handling
Ask whether your pet travels in a climate-controlled vehicle, whether staff are trained in animal handling, and what containment options they use. A company that shoves your dog into a small crate for 15 hours is different from one that provides breaks, hydration, and monitored temperature.
Health and Safety Protocols
Reputable companies require a health certificate from your veterinarian dated within 10 days of transport (or 30 days for some destinations). They should also ask about:
- Pre-transport veterinary evaluation recommendations
- Sedation policies (legitimate companies typically avoid unnecessary sedation)
- Emergency veterinary care protocols en route
- How they handle pets with anxiety, medical conditions, or behavioral issues
Red flag: Any company that automatically offers sedation without assessing your pet first.
Get Everything in Writing
Price quotes should be itemized. Expect:
- Base transport fee
- Crate/containment fee (if not included)
- Health certificate processing
- Boarding/holding fees (if applicable)
- Fuel surcharges
- Pickup/delivery charges if door-to-door
A typical cross-country relocation costs $2,500–$7,000 depending on method and distance. Request a written contract that specifies pickup dates, delivery windows, and what happens if timelines slip. Read cancellation terms carefully—some companies charge 50% if you cancel within 2 weeks.
Check Reviews, But Verify Independently
Read Google reviews and the Better Business Bureau profile, but recognize that online reviews skew toward extremes. Weight recent reviews (last 6 months) more heavily than older ones, and look for patterns rather than single complaints. A company with 4.2 stars and 80 reviews is more reliable than 5.0 stars with 3 reviews.
Contact your state's animal welfare or transportation regulatory body to check for complaints or violations.
Make a Comparison Using Available Resources
Mercoly helps you compare and vet trusted pet transport providers in one place, pulling together verified credentials, customer feedback, and service details so you're not hunting across ten websites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the difference between pet transport companies and pet relocation services? Pet transport focuses specifically on moving animals from point A to B, while pet relocation services often include additional support like finding pet-friendly housing or managing arrival logistics. Both use similar vetting criteria.
Q: Can I book a pet transporter for an international move? Yes, but they must hold IATA certification and coordinate with your destination country's import requirements, quarantine rules, and veterinary documentation. International moves typically cost 2–4 times more than domestic transport.
Q: What if my pet has anxiety or behavioral issues—can they still be transported? Reputable companies will assess your pet and may recommend pre-transport behavioral consultation or alternative routes; skip any company that dismisses these concerns or defaults to sedation.
Start vetting companies at least 6–8 weeks before your move to ensure availability and allow time for health certificate preparation.