Moving your pet across the country is stressful—especially when you're trusting a stranger with a family member. Whether your dog, cat, bird, or exotic pet is traveling hundreds or thousands of miles, a solid hiring checklist keeps both your animal and your wallet safe.
Verify Licensing and Insurance
The first step is confirming the transport company is properly licensed. In the United States, pet transport providers moving animals interstate should have a USDOT number (for ground transport) or be registered with the USDA (for air-based services). Ask for proof of these credentials directly—don't accept vague reassurances.
Insurance is non-negotiable. Most reputable companies carry liability coverage of at least $100,000 to $250,000. Request a certificate of insurance and verify it covers in-transit accidents, injuries, and loss. Some policies exclude exotic pets or specific breeds, so confirm your pet is actually covered before signing anything.
Check References and Reviews
Ask the company for at least three recent client references (transported within the last 6 months). Call them. Ask specific questions: Was the pet on time? Did the animal arrive healthy? Were there any hidden fees? What unexpected problems came up?
Cross-reference online reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Read past the star ratings—look for patterns. One complaint about a delayed delivery is normal; multiple complaints about missing animals or injured pets is a red flag.
Understand the Transport Method
Pet transport companies operate differently. Some specialize in ground transport (van or car with climate control), while others use commercial airlines with specialized crates. Ask how your pet will travel:
- Ground transport typically costs $2–$5 per mile for a single pet and takes 3–10 days depending on distance
- Air transport ranges from $500–$2,500+ for cross-country moves and is faster but more stressful for anxious animals
- Multi-stop relay transport (where different drivers hand off your pet) costs $1,500–$4,000+ and takes longer but reduces individual driver fatigue
For long-distance moves, ask how often the driver stops for breaks, water, and bathroom breaks for your pet. Drivers stopping every 4–6 hours is the standard.
Clarify Pricing and Hidden Fees
Get a detailed quote in writing that itemizes:
- Base transport fee
- Pickup and delivery surcharges (often $100–$300 per stop)
- Crate rental or requirement to purchase a specific carrier
- Feeding and care charges
- Emergency vet care (who pays if your pet gets sick mid-transport?)
- Fuel surcharges or tolls
Some companies quote low base rates but tack on $600+ in ancillary fees. A transparent company lists everything upfront.
Ask About Special Care Requirements
If your pet has medical needs, anxiety, or behavioral issues, the company must know before transport begins. Ask:
- Do they handle medications during transport?
- Can they accommodate pets requiring temperature control (rabbits, birds)?
- Do they have experience with aggressive, fearful, or senior animals?
- What's their protocol if your pet becomes ill en route?
Companies that dismiss these questions or seem dismissive are poor choices. Good ones will ask detailed questions about your pet's temperament, diet, and health history.
Review the Contract Before Signing
Don't sign anything without reading the full agreement. Look for:
- Clear cancellation and refund policies (ideally 7–10 days before transport)
- Liability caps—many contracts limit compensation to $500–$2,000 regardless of pet value or injury severity
- Dispute resolution procedures
- Your responsibility for providing crates, food, water bowls, or medical records
If terms seem one-sided, negotiate or walk away.
Prepare Transport Documentation
Regardless of which company you hire, you'll need:
- Current health certificate (required for interstate transport; costs $50–$100 from your vet)
- Vaccination records, especially rabies
- Microchip registration with updated contact information
- Recent photo of your pet in case of escape
- Written feeding and medication instructions
Services like Mercoly make it easier to compare multiple pet transport providers, read verified reviews, and request quotes from trusted companies in your area—saving you research time before making your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far in advance should I book pet transport? Book 4–8 weeks ahead for cross-country moves, especially during summer travel season. Many reputable companies fill up quickly.
Q: What happens if my pet gets injured during transport? This depends on your contract's liability clause. Some companies cover veterinary costs; others cap liability at $500. Confirm coverage details and ask whether they use trusted emergency vets along the route.
Q: Can I transport multiple pets together? Most companies charge per pet, but multi-pet discounts of 10–25% are common. Group transport is cheaper than separate trips, though it requires both animals to coexist peacefully.
Start comparing transport providers today to find the safest option for your move.