Pet transport, import, and export

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.

SCAA adopted animals have relocated with their families to over 25 different countries. There's an SCAA rescue now living on every continent expect Antarctica! Regulations and policies are always changing, but we'll do our best to point pet owners in the right direction.
With few exceptions requiring the use of a professional pet transport agent, export & import steps can usually be done by owners. However, if your budget allows, then hiring a qualified agent (we recommend IPATA Members) is highly convenient.

---

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.

Domestic China Pet Moves

Shanghai & China Pet Import

Shanghai & China Pet Export