Most of our four-pawed VIPs are transported by air. Our team of experienced professionals are well-versed in the complex nature of pet shipping, using our knowledge of trusted airlines and airports when creating your pet’s travel plans. Drawing upon over 100 years of collective experience in the industry, we will guide you toward the safest and least stressful air travel options for your pets.

There are primarily two methods of transporting pets by air: in-cabin or in the hold of the aircraft. Having pets travel in the passenger cabin is a convenient and reassuring option for pet owners who want to keep their furry companions close during the journey. However, this is only an option for small dogs and cats who can fit under the seat in front in an airline-approved pet carrier and is not available on all airlines. Most airlines will also allow service dogs in-cabin where they are trained to perform a specific task related to a health condition or disability (such as hearing dogs or medical response dogs). 

While many owners are understandably apprehensive about their beloved animals travelling in the hold, this mode of travel is an overwhelmingly safe and comfortable experience for pets. Strict international protocols are upheld for the safe transport of pets and animals. This includes travelling in a spacious sky kennel with room to turn around and lie down in, and boarding pets into a climate-controlled area of the hold, which is pressurized and heated just like the passenger cabin. When the lights are dimmed after take-off, most pets simply snooze away the journey. You can think of it as a business class seat! If you’d like an estimate of pet transportation costs (with the option to contact us for more information) try our pet relocation cost calculator.

As the trusted provider of pet relocation for leading Fortune 500 and FTSE 100 companies, we have extensive experience of working with executives and, on occasion, facilitate travel for dogs and cats via private jet.

Choosing road transport for your pets, whether for domestic or long-distance travel, can offer several benefits, including reduced stress, less time away from family, and the ability to keep a closer eye on your furry companion. At Global Pet Relocation, we understand the importance of these factors and are committed to making every pet's road journey a safe, comfortable, and reassuring experience. 

Travel by road can be the best option for pets such as snub-nosed breeds which may have difficulty travelling by plane due to restricted airline routes. Journeys by road are also an excellent option for shorter trips or domestic pet transport. For moves within the USA, Canada or across Europe, we can complete the journey in just a day or two. This means that you’ll be reunited sooner with your pet and reduces the likelihood of the delays sometimes faced with air travel. 

Delivering your pet by road also allows us to accommodate more of your pet’s belongings than with air travel. We can bring favourite blankets, toys, food and medication along for the ride and keep your pet and their possessions all in one place – one less thing to worry about when unpacking at your new home.

By driving your pet, it also ensures that your pet is never alone, enjoying the companionship of one of our dedicated, pet-loving chauffeurs. Your pet's well-being is our utmost priority during these road trips and our trusted partner drivers stop regularly to check on their furry passengers and allow comfort breaks.

In cases where you would prefer to be actively engaged in overseeing and managing your pet's travel plans, we are here to assist. On some commercial airlines, it’s possible to take your dog or cat with you as excess baggage when you fly as a passenger. This can be quicker and more reassuring for owners wanting to remain with their pet as much as possible during their trip. This method involves booking your flight as normal and adding your pet as excess baggage, either travelling in-cabin if they’re small enough, or in a special compartment of the plane’s hold. On the day of travel, you simply arrive at the airport and head to check-in as normal. Once your boarding pass is issued, you can accompany your pet in your seat, or for those pets travelling in the hold, the airline will look after them airside and board them for the flight. Upon landing, after a quick customs check, you will be able collect your pet from the baggage area and head straight to your new home.

Our pet relocation consultants can advise on the process of taking your pet with you as excess baggage with their knowledge of your specific origin and destination. They will also check your pet’s documentation - making sure the correct paperwork is in place is vital to your pet’s trip. Even small discrepancies on your pet’s record can cause delays upon arrival or even mean they’re turned away at customs. Our expert team will review vaccination records, import and export permits, and health certificates to ensure that your pet is allowed entry into your destination country without hesitation.

Due to the complicated nature of moving around the world, sometimes your plans mean that, as much as you’d like to, you’re unable to travel with your beloved pet. As part of our premium offering, if desired, we can ensure that your pet is personally accompanied at each point of their move by a dedicated and experienced pet handler. Starting with collection from your home, your pet will begin their journey by being checked-in for their flight. Our professional handler can escort your pet in-cabin, depending on weight and size restrictions, or ensure they are safely boarded in the hold for take-off. They will be personally collected by the handler upon landing, who will then facilitate a smooth transfer through customs and quick delivery to your new home where you’ll be reunited with your cherished companion.