Transporters Who Treat Your Pet Like Family

CitizenShipper is a pet transportation marketplace that connects pet owners with background-checked, independent drivers for door-to-door ground transport anywhere in the contiguous United States. Pet owners post a free listing describing their pet and route, then receive competing quotes from verified transporters within minutes. Every booking includes a $1,000 Pet Protection Plan and 24/7 TeleVet access through Vetster. Since 2008, more than 120,000 pets have been transported through the platform.

Traditional pet shipping companies offer fixed pricing from a single provider. You get one quote, take it or leave it. A pet transport marketplace like CitizenShipper works differently. You post your pet's trip details once, and multiple background-checked transporters compete with quotes. This reverse-bidding model gives you more options, competitive pricing, and the ability to read reviews and chat with each driver before booking.

CitizenShipper has 2,500+ active transporters, a 4.8-star rating from 48,000+ reviews, and includes a $1,000 Pet Protection Plan with every booking. Traditional companies rarely offer that combination of choice, transparency, and coverage.

Safe, Affordable Pet Transportation Services

Door-to-Door Pet Transport in the US | Ground & Air Options

Transporting your pet can be stressful. By understanding the options that are available, you can make an informed decision, reducing the stress of moving.

Professional pet transporters handle routing, rest stops, feeding schedules, and veterinary documentation, so pet owners do not have to manage long-distance travel logistics themselves. Transporters on CitizenShipper average 4.8 out of 5 stars across 48,000+ reviews.

CitizenShipper is a pet transportation marketplace where you post your transport needs and receive quotes from background-checked, independent transporters. Over 120,000 pets have been moved through the platform since 2008. You can use it to find a professional that gets your dog or cat delivered safely to your door. CitizenShipper has connected pet owners with transporters for over 120,000 pet moves since 2008 and is the #1 pet transport platform in the USA.

Table of Contents

What is a Pet Transportation Company?

Benefits of Using a Pet Shipping Company

How Much Does It Cost to Ship Your Pet?

How to Prepare For Moving With a Pet

Finding Reliable Pet Relocation Services with CitizenShipper

What is a Pet Transportation Company?

An animal transport company is an umbrella term that refers to a business that moves pets, livestock and animals used for scientific research from one location to another. These companies are governed by an agency known as the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA).

Pet transportation companies operate within IPATA jurisdiction and within the United States, are regulated by the Department of Agriculture (USDA). Pet transporters are USDA-registered professionals that move cats, dogs and other pets. Most companies operate domestically but there are some companies that offer international pet transportation.

On CitizenShipper, you can filter transporters by budget, availability, and your pet's specific needs.

There two main ways pet owners can use a transporter to ship their pet:

Pet Ground Transport

Looking specifically for dog transportation services or cat transport? CitizenShipper has dedicated pages for each.

CitizenShipper is different. You’ll post a listing on our marketplace and within minutes, receive bids from independent transportation companies.

Before choosing who will transport your pet, you’ll have the opportunity to chat with transporters and get to know more about their background and experience levels. Then, you get to decide on the transporter.

Sometimes pet ground transport can refer to train travel. Amtrak allows small pets in carriers to ride on most of their routes.

Pet Air Transport

While ground transportation is the preferred way to move a pet, there are times which air travel makes more sense. For example, some cross-country pet moves have a tight time frame that isn’t possible for ground transporters. Generally speaking, air travel is the quickest way to ship pets across the country.

• Airlines charge a fee to fly with an animal in addition to the cost of your own ticket.
• Large dogs , usually those over 25 pounds , must fly in the cargo area
• Small pets may qualify to travel in the main cabin as "carry-on" luggage.

One solution for air travel is to hire a flight nanny , also known as an air nanny. Flight nannies are professional pet transporters who meet you at the airport, care for your pet on the plane and deliver them safely at the arrival airport. It's easy to find fly nanny flight on CitizenShipper.

Every airline has a different policy when it comes to pet air travel. Read our helpful guide that explains the current pet policy for most major airlines in the United States.

Benefits of Using a Pet Shipping Company

Pet Transport Service Ensures Safety

Your pet’s safety throughout the journey is the most important factor. CitizenShipper knows that your pet's health and well-being are essential.

• Your pet needs access to food, water and necessary medications throughout the trip.
• It'll need frequent breaks throughout the trip , not only to go to the bathroom but also to stretch its legs.
• Transporters use climate-controlled vehicles and are trained on handling animals during inclement weather.
• Our pet transporters are trained on pet safety; many have completed our pet safety certificate , look for the badge on their profile.

Short and Long-Distance Pet Shipping

Overall, the distance will largely determine how you travel. For example:

• A simple move within the same city can be accomplished by a short car ride.
• Moving across the country requires careful planning.
• Documentation and health certificates are usually needed to transport a pet to a new state.

If you’re flying with pets, research airline requirements. Many have strict regulations on required documentation, health certificates and cargo carrier sizes. They also limit the number of animals on each flight, so reserve your spot as soon as possible.

How Is CitizenShipper Different From Other Pet Transportation Services?

There are several differentiators that make booking a transporter through CitizenShipper the right choice for your pet shipping needs.

Booking Assurance Guarantee

Booking a pet transporter can be stressful. That’s why CitizenShipper has a Booking Assurance Guarantee. You may be wondering - what is the Booking Assurance Guarantee?

• It means that if a pet transporter cancels after you book a ride with CitizenShipper, our dedicated and industry-leading customer service team will prioritize finding a replacement.
• Your CitizenShipper booking fee will be refunded if a transporter cancels.
• Support from our customer service team if there is any lapse in communication from the transporter.
• Our customer service team is available seven days a week, because CitizenShipper knows that when it comes to the safety and comfort of your pet, time is of the essence.

$1k Pet Protection Plan

The vast majority of pet transports go smoothly. However, in case your pet has a medical emergency while on the road, CitizenShipper provides what is known as a “pet protection plan” that covers up to $1,000.

• Every transport includes this standard pet protection plan.
• There is no cost for you, the pet owner.
• You’ll pay for the medical costs upfront and CitizenShipper reimburses you.
• For a small fee you can increase the coverage amount of the pet protection plan to $2,500 or $5,000.

Background Checks & Transporter-Vetting

When you need to transport a pet, your peace of mind is very important. That’s why every pet transporter on CitizenShipper has been vetted through a stringent background check and ID verification.

Door-to-Door Pet Transport Service

Many pet owners prefer door-to-door pet transportation services. However, many pet transportation companies don’t offer direct transportation services, instead requiring pet owners to meet at specific locations for delivery. What does door-to-door delivery mean?

• It means having your dog or cat delivered right to your home instead of at a terminal.
• If you're using an air nanny, it means you don't have to travel to an airport to retrieve your pet.
• This option may cost more, but eliminates stress, guesswork and effort on your part.
• Many transporters on CitizenShipper offer this service, though the cost for door-to-door service is more.

Solo Rides and Rideshare

Every pet owner has a different budget in mind for transportation. That's why CitizenShipper offers more options for transport at every price range.

• For sensitive pets or those that don't get along well with other animals, you can book a solo ride on CitizenShipper.
• Your pet will be the only animal in the vehicle, receiving one-on-one attention from the transporter.
• Some pets actually prefer the company of other animals; in these cases you can save money by accepting a rideshare.
• Solo rides have a higher mileage rate than shared rides.

No Breed or Size Restrictions

Some pet transportation companies limit their service to dogs and cats, or have blacklisted some breeds that are deemed "dangerous." When you use CitizenShipper, you'll find a transporter that can accommodate almost any pet transport.

• Transporters on CitizenShipper have moved species as varied as bearded dragon lizards, horses and other livestock, birds, and of course, dogs and cats.
• While some transporters may have some breed restrictions, you'll be able to find several that can accommodate your needs.
• CitizenShipper transporters follow local laws and restrictions. For instance, you won't be able to transport a ferret into California using our platform.

Top-Rated Customer Service

CitizenShipper has a dedicated customer support team to help with any questions or concerns.

• Submit a customer support request here
• Phone Support: +1 (520) 473 8452

How Much Does It Cost to Ship Your Pet?

With several options, it can be confusing to determine the best pet transportation service for you and your animal. The safest and cheapest option for pet transportation will depend on your pet's size, and the distance traveled.

How Much Does it Cost to Keep Your Pet in Cargo or in the Cabin During a Flight?

Large animals have to go into the cargo space aboard the plane, which is more expensive than traveling in the cabin. If you own a snub-nosed (also known as brachycephalic) breed of dog or cat, it won't be able to fly in the cargo area.

• The price varies depending on carrier, but usually, it's between $500 and $1,000 per pet to be shipped in the cabin.
• Shipping a dog domestically usually costs over $125 for a place in the main cabin.
• Many airlines allow domestic and international pet shipping.

What's the Cost of Hiring a Ground Pet Transport Company?

It's difficult to give an exact figure on how much you'll pay to relocate an animal. This is because there are many factors that determine the cost to ship a pet.

• Distance traveled
• Method of transportation
• Time of year
• Solo VIP service vs. traveling with multiple pets
• Special medical conditions
• Number of pets being transported
• Size of your pet

Ground pet transport on CitizenShipper typically costs $0.50 to $1.60 per mile. A 500-mile dog transport averages $250 to $800, depending on solo vs. shared rides. Puppies and special-needs pets may cost more due to extra care requirements.

How to Prepare For Moving With a Pet

Preparing for the move is the most important step of pet relocation. Being well-prepared for pet transportation can reduce stress.

To prepare an animal for travel with pet shipping experts:

• Make sure your pet's identification tag is up to date with accurate contact information.
• Have your pet microchipped before transport.
• Obtain your Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI).
• Provide enough food for the entire trip and use food they're used to.
• Take time to get your pet used to its new kennel.
• Research more information on the subject at the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) website.
• Many transportation services are members of IPATA.

Certificate of Veterinary Inspection

Before embarking on a journey, animals must receive a health check from a veterinarian. Routes between states or countries require a document called a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI).

• The National Veterinary Accreditation Program issues the CVI.
• Your vet will make sure vaccinations and medications are up to date. 
• They'll also look for parasites, like heartworms.
• Airlines require a CVI at a minimum, and others may ask for additional health checks and certifications.

Getting Used to a Carrier

Before starting a journey with your pet, you'll want to consider the appropriate pet carrier or kennel. A pet crate gives your pet a private, protected and contained area for travel.

Some of the most popular options include:

• Hard-Sided
• Soft-Sided
• Wearable Carrier
• Permanent Fixture

Pet Carrier Sizing Guide

The crate you’ll need will largely depend on your pet's size, the duration of the trip and specific vehicle/airline size regulations. An important factor when purchasing a carrier is it's size.

Choosing the proper-size carrier keeps your pet comfortable and safe. Your pet should be able to stand up, lay down, and turnaround inside the carrier.

How to measure your pet to ensure a proper fit:

• Length: Measure from the tip of the pet's nose to the base of its tail.
• Height: Measure from the floor to the highest point on your pet's back (typically at its shoulders).
• Width: Measure the widest point of your pet.

Crate and carrier size chart:

XX Small:

Height: 9"

Length: 16"

Weight Limit: 10 pounds

Extra Small

Height: 11"

Length: 18"

Weight Limit: 15 pounds

Small

Height: 16"

Length: 22"

Weight Limit: 25 pounds

Medium

Height: 20"

Length: 24"

Weight Limit: 30 pounds

Intermediate

Height: 23"

Length: 30"

Weight Limit: 50 pounds

Large

Height: 25"

Length: 32"

Weight Limit: 70 pounds

Extra Large

Height: 28"

Length: 36"

Weight Limit: 90 pounds or more

Finding Reliable Pet Relocation Services with CitizenShipper

Here is how to book pet transport on CitizenShipper: With a few simple steps, you'll be well on your way to a safe journey to your destination using CitizenShipper.

• Create an online account.
• Detail your transport needs.
• Receive free quotes from pet transporters that are certified with the USDA4.
• Choose an experienced pet professional that works best for you.
• Chat about details of the trip using an internal messaging system.
• Reserve your transport and pay the CitizenShipper booking fee.
• Meet your pet transporter on the day of transport for a successful, smooth handoff.

Moving your pet from one location to another has never been easier, safer, or more efficient. Posting a listing or getting a quote on CitizenShipper is free; you don’t pay until you book. Let us help you get your furry family member to its destination safe and sound. We are able to provide free quotes within minutes!