How much does it cost to ship a dog by air? The latest prices and precautions in 2024
With the rapid development of the pet economy, air transport of dogs has become the focus of many pet owners. Whether you are relocating, traveling, or buying an off-site pet, air freight is an efficient option. This article has compiled the hot topics on the Internet in the past 10 days, providing you with a detailed analysis of the costs, procedures and precautions for air transporting dogs, and providing structured data reference.
1. The cost structure of air transporting dogs

The cost of air transporting dogs mainly includes transportation fees, quarantine fees, air box fees and other additional service fees (such as transportation, insurance, etc.). The following is the reference price list of mainstream airlines in 2024:
| airline | Basic freight (yuan/kg) | Quarantine fee (yuan) | Flight box cost (yuan) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air China | 30-50 | 200-300 | 150-400 |
| China Southern Airlines | 25-45 | 150-250 | 100-350 |
| China Eastern Airlines | 28-48 | 180-280 | 120-380 |
| SF Express Pet Express | 40-60 | 300-400 | 200-500 |
Note:1. The basic shipping fee is calculated based on the dog’s weight and route distance, and an additional 20%-30% may be charged in remote areas. 2. Some airlines offer "pet ticket" packages, which include quarantine and air box fees. Please consult in advance.
2. Price comparison of popular routes
The following is a reference for air freight rates for dogs on recent popular routes (taking a 5kg small dog as an example):
| route | Total cost (yuan) | Shipping time |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing→Shanghai | 800-1200 | 2-3 hours |
| Guangzhou→Chengdu | 1000-1500 | 3-4 hours |
| Shenzhen → Xi'an | 1200-1800 | 4-5 hours |
3. Procedures and precautions for transporting dogs by air
1.Prepare in advance:- To apply for the "Animal Quarantine Certificate", you need to provide a rabies vaccine certificate (the vaccination must be at least 21 days old). - Purchase a flight case that meets airline standards (it must have ventilation holes and a waterproof bottom pad).
2.Book a flight:- Contact the airline at least 48 hours in advance to confirm whether there is space for checked pets. - Avoid connecting flights to reduce the risk of dog stress.
3.Shipping day:- Do not eat 4 hours before departure and drink a small amount of water. - Place absorbent pads and toys your dog is familiar with inside the flight box.
4. Answers to recent hot questions
1.“Can dogs be transported by air in the hot summer weather?”Most airlines stipulate that short-nosed dogs (such as French bulldogs and pugs) are prohibited from being checked in when the temperature exceeds 30°C, and other dog breeds need to provide cooling measures.
2.“Are there big differences in international air freight costs?”The cost of international routes is usually 3-5 times that of domestic flights, and they must also comply with the isolation and quarantine requirements of the destination country.
5. How to save air freight costs?
1. Choose transportation during non-peak seasons (such as avoiding Spring Festival and National Day). 2. If you combine orders through a pet shipping agency, the cost can be reduced by about 30%. 3. Bring your own flight case and complete quarantine procedures in advance.
Summary: The cost of air transporting dogs varies greatly depending on the route, weight and service content. It is recommended to plan in advance and consult a professional agency. I hope this article can help you choose a safe and economical transportation solution for your pet!
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