The prospect of moving to a new home can be exciting and daunting at once. The moving process turns a daily routine on end, upside down, and backwards. Pet owners face additional challenges when relocating to a new home or military base. That is particularly true if a pet will make the move on a commercial airline. Professional pet movers can take the stress out of such a move for you and your pet. Pet shipping oranimal transportation companies as they are also known, can manage your pet’s move from point of origin to final destination or provide just specific services for your pets.

Selecting the right animal transportation company can be a little confusing if you don’t know what to consider. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you have trouble getting answers or are apprehensive about the ones you receive, consider contacting another provider. A reputable pet shipper should be patient with you as you ask about their company and experiences. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

1. LONGEVITY: Your first consideration should be how long the company has been in business. The complexities of the industry tend to weed out less competent providers within the first few years, so choose one that is well established. Ask if the current owner has been involved since the inception or is new to the company. It can make a difference, particularly in an international move.
2. EXPERIENCE & SERVICES: Make sure the service you are considering has the kind of experience and services you need. Ask how many animals the service moves each year and whether their experience and services matches your needs. Are you moving a cat, dog, horse or exotic pet domestically or internationally? Maybe you are moving within the military. Find a pet shipper who has solid experience with the Armed Forces if you are active duty military.
3. RELATIONSHIPS: Does the service have relationships with just a few or all of the major airline carriers? What about their understanding of the international marketplace and the varied cultural customs and differences of each foreign country? Probe to determine if the relocation specialists who will assist you and your animal regularly manage moves to dedicated geographic regions, or if they mange moves all around the world making relationship building an integral part of their employment.
4. BACKGROUND: Request a summary of the principals’ credentials. Are they licensed veterinarians or business professionals? A veterinarian will be able to better advise you on medical requirements and techniques to prepare your pet for the move, and can render medical services if required. Ask if they and their staff own pets. You’ll want to work with people who understand how important your pet is to you.
5. PROFESSIONALISM: A mark of a reputable animal mover is one that is involved in professional associations. Look for affiliates of the IPATA, ATA and IATA as a baseline. These organizations keep members current on changes in regulations, research developments, new trends and products in addition to providing a forum for sharing best industry practices.
6. REFERENCES & REFERRALS: Ask for references and check them. If you know other pet owners, ask them for referrals to animal movers they’ve used. And don’t overlook the value of the internet in researching pet moving services testimonials from satisfied customers.
7. PRICE: It is important to understand that using a professional animal transportation service is not a less expensive alternative to arranging the move yourself. Professional animal movers draw on their experience and relationships with airlines and overseas service partners to make pet moves go smoothly. Such expertise comes with a price. Ask for an all-inclusive written estimate in advance of the move. The estimate should be customized to your pet’s itinerary and delineate the specific services you and your pet will receive. It should also spell out what you are expected to provide and when.

With proper research and careful selection of a reputable and experienced pet mover, you can help ensure that your pet arrives safely and comfortably in your family’s new home.