If we hadn't realized before 2020 just how unpredictable our plans either to stay put in one place or to move and explore another are, then SCAA hopes by now all pet owners and prospective adopters pay attention to pet transport.
We also hope the following pages with resources on domestic PRC moves, Shanghai export regulations, and various foreign jurisdictions' import rules are helpful. |
Moving your pet, especially internationally, can seem daunting and advice online a bit inconsistent.
Pre-departure preparations, destination requirements, airline policies, and possible quarantine all affect the time & budget needed for your pet's journey. In case it helps, we'd like you to know that owners are often more stressed about a pet move than their pet ever will be. |
Key transport terms |
Before reading through to specific import or export pages, it's worth noting industry-specific terms that can greatly affect the costs of pet moves.
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EXPORT requirements are all the steps (i.e. veterinary & administrative procedures), timing (i.e. deadlines & waiting periods), and costs imposed by the country pets depart from.
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IMPORT requirements are all the steps (i.e. veterinary & administrative procedures), timing (i.e. deadlines & waiting periods), and costs imposed by the country pets arrive in.
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IN THE AIRLINE CABIN
Small pets (size & weight limits) may fly in a soft-sided bag under the seat in front of you for a reasonable fee.
Carrier bag dimensions differ based on airline and aircraft. If cabin pets are allowed, there is a limited number of cabin pet spots per flight. Generally, cabin pets are limited to one per passenger. |
AS EXCESS BAGGAGE IN THE HOLD
Not to be confused with 'cargo', pets who fly as excess baggage have their booking attached to a passenger ticket.
On check-in, passenger pays a reasonable fee and the pet is placed in the hold as baggage. Pets fly in airline-approved hard crate that meet rules set for their safety & comfort. |
AS CARGO (FREIGHT) IN THE HOLD
Pets flying cargo are commercial freight. Cargo pets usually fly unaccompanied, but may fly with owner as freight when import country rules require.
Cargo is very expensive! Pets as cargo cost thousands of dollars / EUROS and need a pet transport agent for Customs clearance. |