How to Ship a Dog to Another State: Costs, Safety and Options

Your Options for Shipping a Dog to Another State

When it comes to moving your dog, the best option depends on their age, health, temperament, anxiety levels, and breed quirks, as well as your budget. The easiest route for one family might be the wrong choice for another. We’ve seen how these methods work in real life, and we want to be honest. If a shipping option seems like it would put your dog in physical or mental distress, we don’t recommend it.

Below, you’ll learn how to ship a dog to another country by plane, pet transport services, or DIY. 

Flying With Your Dog in the Cabin

If your dog is small enough, this is the optionwe usually recommend first. Your pet stays in a carrier under the seat in front of you, so you’re right there to soothe them, and they stay in a climate-controlled cabin the entire time.

If you can’t make the trip yourself, you can also hire an air nanny. These are professionals who specialize in pet travel and accompany your dog on the flight. They handle the check-in process, manage layovers, and ensure your pup is never stuck waiting alone.

• Is best for small breeds, usually under 20 pounds, and calm travelers.
• Benefits include that you have constant supervision, and it’s generally the fastest way to travel.
• The limitations are that airlines have very strict weight limits, only one or two pets are allowed per flight, and you must book early.

Flying as Checked Baggage or Cargo

For larger dogs, flying as cargo is a common choice. Pets travel in a specialized compartment under the plane. Per DOT regulations, these holds are pressurized and temperature-controlled, just like the cabin.

• Best for medium to large dogs and long-distance moves where driving isn’t feasible.
• Pros are that it’s the fastest way to move a large dog across the country, minimizing total travel time.
• Limitations are that it can be stressful for anxious dogs due to the noise and separation, and flights can be canceled instantly if the weather is too hot or too cold.
• You can not use this method for brachycephalic dogs. These are dogs that have “squished” faces, like bulldogs and pugs. They can have extreme respiratory distress in the cargo, which is why many airlines outright ban them from traveling this way.

Ground Pet Transport Services

Ground carriers, or pet relocation companies, will drive your pet in their vehicle to your new home. They have a set route and stop for food, water, bathroom breaks, short walks, and check on your pet’s comfort. Some offer shared rides with other pets, while others offer private service. This is a robust alternative, and often the one we suggest for breeds that struggle with flying.

• Best for giant breeds, anxious dogs, or short-nosed breeds like pugs that are banned from flying.
• Pros are that your dog gets regular walks and human interaction while avoiding the stress of altitude changes.
• Limitations include that it takes much longer than flying and, depending on the distance, your pet may be on the road for several days.

Driving Your Dog Yourself

If you’ve got the time, the DIY route is often the most comfortable because your dog is with you, their owner. You can stop when you need to — stretch, grab food, let them out for a walk, or visit a dog park. Plus, you know their personality and temperament best. It will be easier for you to tell if they’re getting stressed and need a break compared to others.

• Best for budget-conscious owners and dogs that love car rides.
• Pros include that you control the schedule, the temperature, and the breaks.
• Limitations are that long trips take serious planning involving pet-friendly hotels and managing your own fatigue.

Moving with a feline friend? See our article on how to move a cat long-distance. 

Which Dog Shipping Option Is Best for You?

We’ve helped with thousands of moves, and we know no two dogs are alike. You’ll need to weigh your schedule against what makes your dog most comfortable. An older dog with joint pain might struggle with a 3-day car ride but handle a short flight just fine. Conversely, a high-energy puppy might need the frequent stops that come with ground transport.

Here are some considerations to help you choose the best path:

• Size: If they’re over 20 pounds, flying in the cabin is likely out.
• Breed: If you’ve got a snub-nosed/brachycephalic breed, ground transport is usually the safest option.
• Health: If they’re elderly or anxious, the stress of the cargo hold is rarely worth it compared to a smoother ride on the ground.
• Distance: For coast-to-coast moves, a 6-hour flight is often less stressful than a 5-day drive.
• Availability: If you can’t be there to travel with them, you’ll need to book a professional service to handle the logistics for you.
• Budget: Ground transport is generally more expensive than a flight but cheaper than a private charter.

Comparison of Shipping Methods

How Much to Ship a Dog to Another State?

According to a 2025 report in USA Today, you’re likely looking at a total cost between $500 and $1,500+ to ship your dog to another state.  Ground transporters typically charge by the mile, with rates often falling between $0.50 and $1.60 per mile, depending on the provider. Airline fees are between $125 and $1,200.   

Why is that range so wide? As Richard Obousy, CEO of CitizenShipper, noted in the report, “There’s no flat number we can point to.” A 10-pound dog flying with a nanny is a completely different logistical job than a 90-pound Lab riding in a van. 

Typical Cost Ranges by Shipping Method

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay to ship your dog domestically. 

What Affects How Much It Costs to Ship a Dog?

Several factors will drive your final dog shipping quote up or down:

• Distance: A short regional trip is naturally cheaper, while a cross-country haul requires significantly more fuel and driver time.
• Service level: When it comes to ground transport, service level is the difference between paying $300 for a budget-friendly shared ride and $1,000 for a private ride with climate control and treats.
• Air travel options: Small dogs can fly in-cabin for about $125, but they can’t travel alone. If you aren’t flying with them, you’ll need to hire an air nanny. This service can run from $300 for short trips to over $1,500 for complex routes or overseas flights. Large dogs must fly cargo, which typically costs $500 to $1,200, depending on the crate size and airline.
• Preparation costs: Most transporters require a certificate of veterinary inspection, which usually costs $75 to $250. You’ll also need to budget a couple hundred dollars for an airline-approved crate, especially for large breeds.
• Airline rules: Each airline has its own fee structure. Some charge a flat rate, while others charge based on the total weight of the dog and crate.
• Door-to-door vs terminal: Picking up your dog at the airport cargo facility is cheaper than having a driver pick up your dog at your old front door and drop them at your new one costs extra for that convenience.
• Add-on fees: You may also need to buy an airline-approved crate, which can cost anywhere from $50 to $400, depending on size.

If you’re planning a full household move at the same time, these long-distance moving tips can help you line up your dog’s trip with the rest of your plans.

Airline Rules and Requirements for Shipping a Dog

Airlines have high standards because they have to follow federal laws. The USDA and DOT set strict rules to keep animals safe. We can help you translate these rules into plain English so you aren’t caught off guard at the airport.

Temperature Embargoes

According to the Animal Welfare Act, animals can’t be exposed to temperatures less than 45°F unless they have a vet’s certificate stating they’re acclimated to it. Similarly, airlines generally won’t fly pets in cargo if it’s above 85°F. This protects your dog from extreme heat or cold while they’re waiting on the tarmac.

Breed Restrictions

Brachycephalic dogs (breeds with flat faces, like pugs, bulldogs, and boxers) often have strict restrictions. Many airlines won’t allow them in the cargo hold at all because they have trouble breathing in high-stress or high-heat environments. If you’ve got one of these breeds, we strongly recommend ground transport.

Crate Requirements

You can’t just use any carrier. Cages must meet IATA and USDA standards for size, ventilation, strength, materials, and labeling:

• Size: Must allow the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally
• Construction: Rigid plastic or metal with metal nuts and bolts
• Ventilation: Openings on at least three sides
• Labels: “Live Animal” stickers, and your contact info must be visible

Is It Safe to Ship a Dog?

Safety is the number one question we get, and rightly so. For most healthy dogs, shipping is safe. Airlines and vetted ground transporters follow strict protocols. However, let’s be honest: Travel is stressful.

Stress and Anxiety Risks

Loud noises, pressure changes, strange smells, temperature fluctuations, and unfamiliar vibrations can cause anxiety. If your dog has severe separation anxiety, the cargo hold of a plane might be too much for them.

When Shipping Is Not Recommended

If your dog is very elderly, has a heart condition, or is pregnant, injured, or recovering from surgery, the stress of travel might outweigh the benefits of flying. The USDA also notes that dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and weaned for at least 5 days before traveling. In these cases, driving them yourself is often the safest option.

Signs a Method Isn’t Right

If a transporter can’t show you their USDA registration, that’s a red flag. And if an airline can’t guarantee a direct flight, reconsider. Connecting flights increase the time your dog spends on the tarmac and increase the risk of errors.

Best Time of Year to Ship a Dog

Timing is everything when it comes to moving with your pet. Seasonal temperature rules can affect flight availability, so it’s worth checking the forecast as you plan your move.

Spring and Fall Are Best

These seasons offer mild temperatures across most of the country in the U.S. This reduces the risk of flight cancellations due to heat or cold restrictions. Because demand is lower during these times, you can also sometimes save money by booking transport during these shoulder seasons.

Summer and Winter Risks

In summer, midday flights are often grounded because of the heat. In winter, freezing temperatures can stop travel. If you must move in summer, try to book early-morning or late-night flights. For ground transport, ensure the vehicle has reliable climate control.

Step-by-Step: How the Dog Shipping Process Works

Shipping a dog involves a few logistical steps you won’t want to skip. Following this guide in order will ensure you don’t miss any critical deadlines.

1. Visit the vet: Most states require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) signed by your vet within 10 to 30 days of travel. This confirms your dog is healthy and current on vaccinations.
2. Choose your method: Decide between air and ground based on your dog’s specific needs and your budget.
3. Book transport: Aim to schedule transport 4 to 6 weeks in advance. Many companies request a deposit to hold your spot.
4. Prepare the crate: Accustom your pet to the kennel well before the trip. Treats help! Make sure the door latches securely, and they feel safe inside.
5. Travel day: The DOT advises not giving your pet solid food in the 6 hours prior to the flight to prevent nausea, though water is encouraged.

For more advice on moving with pets of all kinds, see our guide on moving with your pet.

How to Avoid Dog Shipping Scams and Red Flags

Scammers, unfortunately, target people in the middle of a move. Trust MovingPlace to help you spot the fakes before you lose money or risk your pet’s safety.

Unrealistically Low Pricing

If a quote is hundreds or thousands of dollars lower than everyone else’s, be suspicious. Legitimate transport involves fuel, insurance, labor, vehicle maintenance, and administrative costs. Those things add up and are a part of why this process is so expensive. 

No Written Contract

Never hand over your dog or your money without a signed agreement. It should clearly outline the route, price, and insurance coverage.

Lack of USDA Registration

Any commercial business transporting pets must be registered with the USDA. Ask for their license number. If they won’t give it to you, don’t use them.

Poor Communication

Be wary if they only communicate via text or email and refuse phone calls. Also, never pay via untraceable methods like Western Union or gift cards.