The questions we get every week.
Pet travel rules change constantly. These answers are general guidance — your coordinator confirms the current requirements for your exact route before booking.
Before you book
How far in advance should I book an international pet move?+
For most destinations, 4–8 weeks is comfortable. Routes requiring a rabies titre test (such as the EU, UK, Japan or Australia) can need 3–4 months because the titre must be taken at least 30 days after vaccination and then wait 3 months before travel. Australia and New Zealand often need 6+ months. Tell us your dates early and we will map the legal timeline backwards.
Which pets do you transport?+
Dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, amphibians, small mammals and most exotic companions. Livestock and protected species require different permits — contact us before booking so we can confirm what is legally possible on your route.
Can you transport a pet if I am not travelling with them?+
Yes. The majority of our moves are unaccompanied. We act as the shipper on the air waybill, handle the export paperwork and hand the pet to the receiver or their authorised representative at destination.
Paperwork & compliance
Do you handle health certificates and import permits?+
Yes. Our veterinary documentation desk prepares health certificates, schedules rabies titres, files USDA APHIS endorsements, applies for import permits and coordinates DEFRA/APHA or EU paperwork where required. We pre-check every document before it is submitted.
What if my pet's microchip was implanted after the rabies vaccine?+
For many destinations (notably the EU and UK) the microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination. If it was not, the pet usually needs a new rabies vaccine after chipping, followed by the waiting period. We check this before quoting so it does not become a border surprise.
Do you guarantee entry into the destination country?+
No carrier or agent can guarantee a border decision. What we can guarantee is that the paperwork we prepare is checked against current published requirements and submitted correctly. If a rule changes mid-journey, we tell you immediately and re-plan.
Crates & comfort
Do I need to buy a crate, or do you provide one?+
Either works. If you already have an IATA-approved crate we will verify the size and condition. If not, we supply one and start crate acclimation at least two weeks before departure. Our crate catalogue explains sizing for common breeds.
How do you keep pets calm during layovers?+
Layovers are booked at vetted partner facilities with quiet, climate-controlled rooms. Handlers walk dogs, refresh water and send a photo update. Species-specific care is used for birds, reptiles and small mammals. We avoid unnecessary stops and never leave a pet unattended in a vehicle.
Can my pet travel in the cabin with me?+
On some routes and with some airlines, small cats and dogs may travel in-cabin with an accompanying passenger. We will tell you honestly whether it is allowed for your route, aircraft and species — and whether it is actually less stressful than cargo for your particular pet.
In transit & tracking
How does live tracking work?+
Every booking gets a PX tracking reference. Your coordinator posts a checkpoint at pickup, vet check, departure, each layover and final handover, with location, time and a plain-language note. The same timeline is available on the public tracker and via the QR code in your booking email.
What happens if a flight is delayed or cancelled?+
The coordinator re-books the next safe connection, arranges boarding or a vet check if the delay is long, and posts the change to your tracker. You receive an email. There is no extra charge for re-planning caused by carrier disruption; any third-party boarding cost is discussed with you first.
Can I visit or collect my pet at a layover?+
Usually not. Transit areas and cargo facilities are restricted. In some airports a handler can arrange a supervised visit, but it depends on the facility and the pet's stress levels. Ask your coordinator before the journey starts.
Money & insurance
How is a quote calculated?+
Route, mode, crate size, pet weight, documentation, layovers and any quarantine costs. You receive an itemised quote with no hidden handoffs. Published charges also appear in the tracker if you choose to share them with the receiver.
Is insurance included?+
Basic carrier liability is included on air cargo, but it is limited. We strongly recommend dedicated travel insurance for vet emergencies, cancellation and quarantine costs. We can arrange cover through our partner, or you can use your own policy — just send us the certificate.
What is your cancellation policy?+
Cancellation terms depend on how far the booking has progressed and which third parties have been paid (airline, vet, permits, boarding). The specific terms are in your quote. We always try to reschedule instead of cancel where possible.
Still unsure?
Ask us directly. We will answer with the actual rule for your route, not a generic blog post.