Frequently Asked Questions

How does CitizenShipper work, exactly?

CitizenShipper’s online marketplace allows you to choose your transporter based on the quotes you receive. Just list your transport requirements, detailing the type of delivery, the destination, the preferred time frame, etc. We send this info out to the transporters best qualified to meet your requirements. You can then sit back, relax, and wait for the quotes from matching transporters to come in before choosing the best offer.

How and when do I pay for the shipment?

CitizenShipper does not mediate the transactions between you and your transporter. Using our internal messaging system, you can discuss payment options safely and swiftly.

Transporters typically require full payment upon delivery, though some may ask for an upfront payment in part or in whole. Payments can be made via cash, check, or credit card; some transporters also accept Venmo and Apple Pay.

If transporters require you to pay upfront, we recommend using only payment processors that allow chargebacks (credit cards, PayPal, etc.) Avoid using direct money transfers (Moneygram, Western Union, etc) for upfront payments. Those are irreversible and wouldn’t allow you to dispute a payment.

Is my pet kept safe during transportation?

Maintaining the safety of pets in transport is our number one priority. Transporters go through an extensive background screening process, which guarantees that only reliable, competent, qualified operators can contact you. Check for the Background Certified badge on a driver’s profile.

How much do you charge?

Listing your transportation requirements is completely free of charge. There’s no “listing fee” required to gain access to the transporters and negotiate the shipping cost with them.

Once you accept a bid that best matches your requirements, we charge a percentage of the price that you and the transporter have agreed upon.

This works on a sliding scale with the exact numbers illustrated here.

What should I expect after my listing goes live?

Once you list your transportation requirements, the transporters will start sending their quotes using our messaging system. The first messages should arrive within a few minutes if your shipment is listed in a high-traffic area. Otherwise, it might take a couple of hours for a transporter to get in touch.

You can answer these messages at your convenience, negotiate the price and all other details with the transporter. These exchanges are kept on record, assuring full safety and transparency.

For additional information, please visit our Help Center. You can always contact us here.

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