Trusting your pet's safety to a shipping company is one of the hardest decisions a pet owner makes—and you shouldn't wing it based on reviews alone. Safety records, certifications, and incident history separate legitimate carriers from risky operations that cut corners on ventilation, temperature control, and handling protocols. Here's exactly how to dig into a pet transport company's background before booking.
Check USDA and DOT Licensing
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates companies that transport live animals across state lines. Search the USDA APHIS database for the company's license number and facility inspection reports. You're looking for:
- Active, current licensing (not expired or revoked)
- Inspection dates within the last 18–24 months
- Low or zero violations related to animal welfare, sanitation, or climate control
For ground transport within the U.S., the Department of Transportation (DOT) also tracks carriers. Request their DOT number and cross-reference it on SaferProducts.gov to check for accident history and safety ratings.
Request Incident and Complaint History
Ask the pet shipping company directly for:
- The number of animals transported in the last year
- Any lost, injured, or deceased animals on record
- Insurance claims filed in the past three years
- Complaints filed with state agriculture departments or the Better Business Bureau
A reputable company will have documented policies and transparent answers. If they're evasive or vague, that's a red flag. Some larger carriers like Bark Air and Petland have public incident records you can cross-reference; smaller boutique operations may have fewer documented cases but should still provide verifiable references.
Verify Temperature and Health Monitoring
The most common transport failures involve inadequate temperature control. Ask whether the company:
- Uses climate-controlled vehicles (maintained at 65–75°F for most breeds)
- Provides real-time GPS and temperature monitoring you can access
- Requires health certificates and pre-transport veterinary clearance
- Has protocols for emergency stops if temperature fluctuates
Request their written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for how they handle animals during delays, layovers, or unexpected weather. Companies charging $1,500–$3,500 for long-distance moves (coast-to-coast) should include these features; budget operators ($800–$1,200) may offer fewer safeguards.
Check Insurance and Liability Coverage
Legitimate pet shippers carry cargo liability insurance of at least $500 per animal, with some covering up to $2,500 or higher for premium services. Verify:
- Policy number and current coverage dates
- Coverage limits for your pet's breed and weight
- Exclusions (some policies won't cover brachycephalic breeds like bulldogs)
- Claims process and typical payout timelines (usually 30–60 days)
Contact their insurance provider independently to confirm coverage. If a company can't provide policy details, assume they're underinsured or uninsured.
Review Independent Certifications
Look for these industry certifications as proof of third-party vetting:
- International Air Transport Association (IATA) – Required for air transport; means staff are trained in animal handling
- Pet Safe Shipping Network – Voluntary membership with compliance audits
- American Humane Association – Endorsement requiring specific welfare standards
- State agriculture department certifications – State-specific licensing above federal baseline
Request References and Track Record
Ask for contact information for recent customers (within the last 3 months) who transported pets similar to yours—same breed, distance, and travel method. Speak directly with them about:
- Whether the animal arrived on schedule and in good health
- How communication was handled during transit
- Any unexpected costs or issues
- Whether they'd book with the company again
A company reluctant to provide references likely has something to hide.
Cross-Reference Online Reviews
Read reviews on Google, Trustpilot, and the Better Business Bureau, but focus on specifics rather than star counts. Look for patterns in:
- Delivery delays and how they were communicated
- Animal health issues upon arrival
- Responsiveness to customer questions pre-transit
- Hidden fees added after booking
If multiple reviewers mention temperature problems or late arrivals without explanation, move on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it typically take to verify a pet shipping company's safety record? A: Allow 1–2 weeks to complete USDA lookups, check insurance, request references, and review incident history. Don't rush this step—it's worth the delay.
Q: Can I get a refund if my pet arrives sick or injured? A: That depends on the company's liability terms and insurance policy; most cover veterinary treatment costs, but refunds vary. Always get the refund policy in writing before booking.
Q: Are air carriers safer than ground transport for long-distance moves? A: Air transport is faster (reduced stress from prolonged confinement) but carries different risks like pressurization and handling by multiple airports. Safety depends on the specific carrier's protocols, not the mode alone.
Use Mercoly to compare verified pet transport providers side-by-side and find companies with transparent safety records in your region.