How to Find a Pet-Friendly Moving Company
Moving is stressful enough without worrying about whether the movers you hire actually know how to handle your pet safely and with care. A pet-friendly moving company should treat your cat, dog, or other animal like the family member they are—not like cargo or an afterthought. So what separates a truly pet-aware moving company from one that’s just willing to tolerate your pet in the truck? Here’s how to find the right one for your move.
Verify Licensing, Bonding, and Insurance
A reputable moving company is usually licensed, bonded, and insured. Before you even get to the pet-specific questions, this is non-negotiable. Ask potential companies to confirm they’re registered with your state and licensed to operate. Bonding protects you if something goes wrong, and insurance means your belongings—and your peace of mind—are covered.
With a pet-friendly moving company, you also want to ask specifically about liability coverage for animals. You should ascertain if they provide insurance to cover the loss, injury, or even death of your pet. If they don’t, consider working with a different mover or securing separate pet-specific insurance before the move.
Check Experience with Pets
Not all moving companies have the same level of comfort around animals. Not all movers are equipped to handle all kinds of animals. Cats and dogs may be easy by virtue of the fact they’re very popular pets, but more exotic animals require specific expertise.
Find one that has at least five years of experience. This matters because a seasoned company has likely encountered different pet temperaments, behavior patterns, and transportation scenarios. Ask the company directly: How many pet relocations have they handled? Do they have experience with your specific type of pet? What training do their movers receive when it comes to handling animals?
Read Reviews and Ask for References
Look for detailed reviews mentioning clear communication, careful handling, and transparency throughout the process. Companies with consistent 5-star ratings often have proven track records in safe, stress-free animal relocations.
Check Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Pay attention to comments from people who specifically mention moving their pets—what did they say about how the movers treated their animals? Don’t be shy about asking the company for references from past clients who’ve moved pets. A reputable company should be happy to provide them, and talking directly with someone who’s been through it is invaluable.
Confirm Membership in Professional Organizations
The single most important criteria is to make sure that your potential pet moving company is a member of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA), a nonprofit trade association dedicated to the safe and humane transport of pets and other animals. Members are required to follow strict rules and regulations. They’re also registered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and adhere to the rules and regulations of the USDA’s Animal Welfare Act.
These certifications aren’t decorative—they’re proof that the company has committed to industry standards and ongoing training. If a company isn’t a member of IPATA or doesn’t comply with USDA regulations, that’s a red flag.
Watch Out for Red Flags
The moving company shouldn’t recommend using sedatives or tranquilizers of any kind — the IPATA specifically warns of the dangers of sedating animals for transport, which can result in severe injury and even death. If a company suggests sedating your pet as a routine practice, walk away.
Also be cautious if a company is vague about their process for handling animals during packing and moving day. A good pet-friendly moving company should be able to clearly explain how they’ll keep your pet safe while boxes are flying around, doors are open, and there’s general chaos. They should have a concrete plan—like keeping your pet in a quiet, closed room during the packing process—not just say “we’ll figure it out.”
Understand Your Pet’s Transportation Options
Pet shipping services available include pet boarding for temporary stays during transit for long-distance moves. Air transportation involves shipping pets via commercial airlines. Ground transportation services are available for shorter distances or pets who may not be suitable for air travel, and can include door-to-door pet transport via car or specialized pet transport companies that operate vehicles equipped for animal travel.
The transportation method matters. A local move might mean your pet travels in your own vehicle. A cross-country move might require air travel or ground transport with a specialized company. When traveling within a state or a localized region, ground transportation is likely cheaper and easier, but air travel may be the more convenient option the farther away you roam. Ask potential companies which options they offer and what each involves.
Get Multiple Quotes and Compare
Select at least three pet-friendly moving companies and obtain detailed moving quotes from them. Costs vary widely depending on distance, your pet’s size, and the level of service you need.
A domestic move within the United States will typically run no less than $500 and can easily cost over $1,000. If you’re moving internationally, that’s often a lot pricier; plan to invest at least $2,000 to take your pet overseas. When comparing quotes, make sure you’re looking at the same services. Ask each company to itemize what’s included—transportation, handling, insurance, any lodging or veterinary services—so you’re genuinely comparing apples to apples.
Also ask about hidden fees. Ask whether you can lock in a binding estimate so you’re not surprised by last-minute surcharges for crate upgrades, route changes, or unexpected veterinary requirements.
Ask About Services and Insurance Coverage
Different pet-friendly moving companies offer different add-on services. Many companies offer various tiers of service or customizable options to suit your needs. Basic services usually include transportation and maybe a few other perks, like document organization or a pre-travel checklist. A la carte options may include nanny services for a dedicated caretaker to supervise your pet during transit, lodging for hoteling services before, during or immediately after the move, veterinary services like health checks before traveling, and concierge services such as U.S. customs clearance.
Ask what’s included in the base package and what costs extra. For longer moves, lodging services (a safe place for your pet to rest overnight) can make a real difference. Veterinary services are important if your pet needs health checks or has special medical needs. If you’re moving internationally, customs and documentation support is essential.
Have the Conversation About Your Specific Pet
After you’ve narrowed down your choices, have a detailed conversation with each company about your pet specifically. The mover may recommend specific supplies to pack with your pet as well as a feeding schedule that reduces intake leading up to the trip. They may also advise sending ice, which will melt during the trip so your pet always has access to water.
Find out how the moving company is equipped to deal with medical emergencies and if it can handle any special needs your pet has. They should be able to outline recommendations for specific species or breeds, how to handle any special medication or health condition your pet has, and considerations for your destination’s climate.
A good conversation will help you figure out not just whether the company is qualified, but whether they seem to genuinely understand and care about your pet’s wellbeing. If they’re rushing you off the phone or seem dismissive of your concerns, that’s a signal to keep looking.
FAQ
How far in advance should I book a pet-friendly moving company?
If you’re moving during a popular moving season like summer, you may want to consider booking two months in advance to avoid missing out on your preferred movers. Even for off-season moves, booking as early as possible gives you more options and time to prepare your pet for the transition.
What should I do to prepare my pet for the move?
Schedule a vet visit to make sure you can get an appointment for at least one month ahead of time to discuss moving plans. Whether you’re moving out of state or across the country, it’s important to make sure your pet is up-to-date on shots and microchipped. If you’re transporting your pets via carriers or crates, make sure they get acquainted. Set up the crate so that it’s a comfortable place for your pet to rest. Put a familiar blanket and your pet’s favorite toy in the crate.
Can I transport my pet in my own car instead of using a specialized company?
Yes, especially for local moves. Moving companies cannot handle the actual moving of your pets. The best plan would be to transport them in a crate in your own car alongside your family where they would feel most comfortable. For longer distances, however, a professional pet-friendly moving company may be safer and less stressful for your pet.
What documents do I need for a move with my pet?
For domestic moves within the U.S., current vaccination records and proof of microchipping are typically sufficient. For international travel, your pet may need additional vaccinations and possibly even submit to quarantine. Depending upon the destination, animal quarantine can last anywhere from 10 to 180 days. The moving company should be well-versed in requirements for common destinations and able to find out the requirements for less common ones.
What’s the difference between a pet shipping company and a regular moving company that’s pet-friendly?
A regular moving company that’s pet-friendly handles your household items and furniture while being mindful of your pet during the process—usually meaning they keep your pet in a safe room during packing and moving. A specialized pet shipping or transportation company focuses specifically on safely transporting your pet, sometimes as the primary service. For a full household move, you may use a regular moving company and arrange separate pet transport, or find a moving company that offers both services.
