International Pet Transport
Since 1969,OSS have provided complete global door to door moving services. That’s 50 years of specialist international moving, and over 200,000 moves.
Moving Your Furry Friends: Overseas Pet Transport Specialists
Pets are an important part of the family. Whether they’re on four legs or two, we know it’s essential to relocate your entire family to your new destination.
Moving pets overseas can be a complex process that requires careful planning, adherence to international regulations, and a commitment to ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort. At OSS Worldwide Movers, we understand the importance of making your pet’s transition as seamless and stress-free as possible.
No matter where you’re moving to, OSS can assist with moving your pets in conjunction with a Household move, by partnering with Australia’s leading experts in pet transport, who have been moving tens of thousands of pets a year for over 30 years. Their staff will work round-the-clock to help you bring little Archie or Clio with you to your new home abroad.
Understanding International Pet Transport Requirements
When moving internationally with pets, one of the most critical steps is understanding the import and export regulations of both your current country and your destination. Each country has different pet relocation services international requirements, including vaccination, microchipping, and quarantine rules.
Vaccination & Health Certification
When moving pets internationally, ensuring that your pet is up to date with vaccinations is one of the most critical steps. Most countries require proof of vaccination against rabies, and some may require additional vaccinations against diseases such as distemper, leptospirosis, or parvovirus. The exact requirements vary depending on the destination, so it’s important to check well in advance.
Failing to meet vaccination or certification requirements can result in quarantine delays, denied entry, or even the pet being sent back to the country of origin, so compliance is essential.
Microchipping
Many countries require ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchips for pet identification. The microchip must be implanted before vaccinations, as some regulations only recognise immunisations given after microchipping. Ensure your pet’s microchip is registered in an international pet database and that the details match those in their travel documents to prevent any issues during overseas pet transport.
Quarantine Regulations
Some destinations, such as New Zealand, and Singapore, impose mandatory quarantine periods ranging from a few days to several weeks. The duration depends on factors like the pet’s country of origin, vaccination records, and pre-entry blood tests (e.g. rabies titre test). Proper planning and meeting all health requirements can help reduce or avoid quarantine time, ensuring a smoother international pet transport process.
Breed Restrictions
Certain countries impose restrictions or bans on specific dog breeds, such as Pit Bull Terriers, Dogo Argentinos, and Japanese Tosas, often due to perceived risks. Some breeds require special permits, muzzling, or temperament tests, while others are outright prohibited. Restrictions may also apply to exotic pets, including certain reptiles and hybrid cat breeds. Checking destination-specific regulations before moving pets overseas is crucial to prevent unexpected issues at customs.
Preparing Your Pet for Overseas Travel
Ensuring your pet is comfortable and well-prepared for overseas pet transport is crucial for a stress-free journey. Whether you’re moving pets abroad for work, family relocation, or a fresh start, taking the right steps in advance will help make the transition smoother.
A comprehensive veterinary check-up is essential to confirm your pet’s health, update vaccinations, and secure necessary documentation for moving pets internationally. Compliance with international pet transport regulations, such as health certificates and microchipping, is vital to prevent travel delays.
Crate training is also important to help your pet feel secure during the trip. An IATA-approved travel crate that allows them to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably is recommended for overseas pet travel. Additionally, keeping your pet hydrated while avoiding large meals before travel can prevent discomfort. If your pet is unfamiliar with long-distance travel, short car or flight trips before the move can help them acclimate. Proper preparation ensures a smooth experience when moving overseas with pets, making their journey as safe and comfortable as possible.
Why Choose OSS Worldwide Movers for Overseas Pet Travel?
Selecting a trusted and experienced international pet transport company is crucial for a stress-free relocation. OSS Worldwide Movers offers expert pet relocation services internationally, ensuring compliance with all import/export regulations and a seamless journey for your pet.
- Tailored Pet Travel Plans: Customised travel solutions based on your pet’s needs and destination requirements.
- Comprehensive Documentation Support: Assistance with health certificates, customs clearance, and quarantine arrangements.
- Safe & Secure Transport: Our partnerships with trusted airlines and animal travel specialists ensure top-tier pet safety and comfort.
- Expert Guidance: Our team provides step-by-step guidance to ensure your pet meets all regulatory requirements.
A professional pet relocation service ensures that your pet is in safe hands throughout the journey.
How Do I Know If My Pet Is Healthy Enough To Move?
The most important consideration for the safe transport of your pet is the animal’s health. If your pet is aging, pregnant, younger than 12 weeks or injured, you’ll need to factor that into your plans. Meet with your veterinarian to discuss your pet’s travel fitness as soon as you’re seriously considering an international move.
Once you and your veterinarian have decided your pet is fit to travel, you’ll want to look for vaccination requirements — particularly for rabies — as well as microchip needs, essential health certificates and government stamps or authorisations. Titre tests may also be required; these blood tests measure antibodies in your pet’s blood and can serve as proof of immunity.
You’ll save yourself stress by understanding the entirety of this process when it’s early days because some vaccinations and certificates will need to be obtained months ahead of travel while other certifications must be dated within days of the trip. We can help you map this out.
Once that’s organised, it’s time to start considering the types of air travel most suitable for your animal. Service dogs may travel in the cabin with you, provided the existence of appropriate identity documents. If you require a service dog to travel in the cabin with you, we’ll contact your airline as soon as possible.
All other animals will need to travel in the cargo hold below the plane. Our team can help you determine the appropriate, airline-approved size of pet carrier or kennel for the cargo hold. Should you own a particularly exotic pet (racing pigeon? reptile?) we may need to arrange live animal freight transport.
At this point, it’s important to research airline regulations concerning pets as well as routes you and your pet could fly. Long layovers may complicate matters, particularly if you are carrying your pet in the cabin. Each airline, airport and layover country will have different regulations and require different documents.
Lining up the Tetris blocks of pet travel can prove challenging. Regulations will vary from one country to the next by season.
Quarantine lengths on arrival and the required reservations should also factor into your plans; you’ll need to make sure you understand the requirements of the gaining country.
Safety When Moving Pets Internationally
Pet safety is the number one priority when moving overseas with pets. Ensuring your pet remains healthy, calm, and comfortable during travel is essential to reduce stress and prevent health issues. Proper planning, crate training, and understanding airline regulations can make a significant difference in how smoothly your pet adjusts to international pet transport.
Key Safety Considerations for Pet Relocation
- Choosing the Right Crate: Your pet’s crate should be airline-approved, well-ventilated, and sturdy. It should have a secure locking mechanism to prevent accidental escapes.
- Comfort Items: Familiar bedding, a favourite toy, or a piece of clothing with your scent can help ease anxiety.
- Temperature Control: Check that airlines offer climate-controlled cargo holds, especially for brachycephalic breeds (such as pugs or Persian cats) that are more sensitive to temperature changes.
- Avoid Sedation: Sedation can be dangerous for pets during air travel. Instead, focus on crate training to keep your pet calm.
- Monitor Food & Water Intake: Provide adequate water and avoid feeding your pet a large meal just before departure.
Managing Quarantine & Customs Regulations
Many countries enforce quarantine laws to prevent the spread of diseases. Understanding these laws before moving pets internationally is essential to avoid unnecessary delays.
What to Know About Quarantine Regulations
- Quarantine Duration: Some countries, like Australia and New Zealand, require pets to stay in government-approved quarantine facilities for a set period.
- Facility Standards: Research quarantine facility conditions to ensure they meet your expectations.
- Reducing Quarantine Time: Some countries allow reduced quarantine periods if you follow pre-travel testing and vaccination guidelines.
Our team at OSS Worldwide Movers helps pet owners navigate quarantine regulations for a smooth entry process.
A High-Flying Pet Concierge Service
Wondering about the costs of international pet transport? We’ll provide you an all-inclusive price based on your flight schedule, the size and weight of your pet and the care level needed.
An experienced pet relocation service like ours boasts a team of longtime professionals who can anticipate all your questions and concerns. Perhaps you’re wondering how to soothe your dog’s anxiety about traveling in the crate. We can help you prepare man’s best friend for the journey. Maybe you’re wondering if you should sedate your cat ahead of a plane ride so they aren’t meowing the entire flight. Our veterinarians can help you think that through.
In Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, we have access to pet lounges so your four-legged friend can stretch their paws and get hydrated ahead of their journey. Pets can stay here if their flight is delayed or return here if there is a cancellation. These things happen, and we’re prepared.
If you’re calm heading into the move, you’ll be better able to help your pet. Our team of professionals has also done this so many times. They can project calm and confidence to help your pet know they’re in safe hands.
Frequently Asked Questions When Moving Pets Overseas
How far in advance should I plan my pet’s international move?
It is recommended to start planning at least six months in advance when moving pets internationally. This allows enough time to research import regulations, schedule necessary vaccinations and health checks, and apply for any required permits. Some countries, like Australia and New Zealand, have strict quarantine and pre-travel testing requirements, which can take several months to complete. Booking your pet’s overseas pet transport early also ensures availability with airlines and pet relocation services.
Can all pets travel internationally?
Most cats and dogs can travel internationally, but restrictions may apply to certain breeds or exotic animals. Some countries prohibit specific dog breeds, such as Pit Bull Terriers or Japanese Tosas, while others have strict import rules for birds, reptiles, and small mammals. If you are moving overseas with pets that are not commonly transported, you may need special permits or additional veterinary clearance. Always check with the destination country’s pet import regulations before planning your move.
Will my pet be sedated during the flight?
No, sedation is strongly discouraged for pets during air travel, as it can cause serious health risks, including respiratory and cardiovascular issues at high altitudes. Instead, pet owners should focus on crate training to help their pets feel more comfortable and secure in their travel environment. Some natural calming solutions, such as pheromone sprays or anxiety wraps, may help ease travel stress without the risks associated with sedation.
What happens if my pet doesn’t meet the entry requirements upon arrival?
If a pet does not meet the necessary entry requirements, such as vaccination records, health certifications, or microchip compliance, authorities may place them in extended quarantine, deny entry, or return them to the country of origin at the owner’s expense. To avoid this, pet owners should triple-check all paperwork, vaccinations, and health screenings before travel. Using international pet movers like OSS Worldwide Movers can help ensure compliance with all regulations to prevent such issues.
What are the costs of moving pets overseas?
The cost of overseas pet transport varies depending on destination, pet size, airline fees, insurance, quarantine requirements, and additional services such as door-to-door transport. Larger pets require bigger crates, which can increase flight costs, while countries with strict regulations may have higher import fees and quarantine expenses. Pet owners should also factor in vet visits, documentation fees, and potential boarding costs if travel timelines do not align. Requesting a custom quote from an international pet transport company will give you a better idea of total costs.
How can OSS Worldwide Movers assist with pet relocation?
OSS Worldwide Movers provides a comprehensive pet relocation service designed to make moving pets abroad as seamless as possible. Our team assists with documentation, vaccinations, quarantine arrangements, crate selection, and flight bookings to ensure your pet meets all international pet transport requirements. We also work with trusted airlines and customs officials to ensure your pet arrives safely at their new home. Contact us for a tailored pet relocation plan that meets your specific needs.
Ready to get on board?
Whether it’s a dog or cat who has captured your family’s heart, we’re here to help keep the family together. We invite you to contact us as soon as you’ve decided to pursue a new adventure for the humans and pets in your pack.
We’ve got tons of research to share and have likely moved scores of pets to your new home country ahead of you. That’s why we can be your voice of wisdom as you plan and embark upon the family’s big move as well as your animal’s guide to a comfortable and safe journey.