Can You Ship Your Pet with UPS?

Adaeze Nwakaeze Adaeze Nwakaeze · Updated November 11, 2024

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Can you ship your pet with UPS?

When shipping your pet, you want to ensure they are in the best hands possible. With so many options available, deciding on the right shipping company for your furry friend can seem a bit overwhelming. One option that may come to mind is UPS, a trusted name in the world of shipping. But does UPS offer pet shipping? This article will explore the ins and outs of shipping your pet with UPS, including what services they offer, restrictions you should be aware of, and what supplies and documentation you’ll need.

What Services Does UPS Offer for Shipping Pets?

Regarding shipping pets, UPS offers a few services that cater to different needs. However, before we get too far into the article, we should make it clear that UPS doesn’t transport mammals. If you’re trying to get your furry friend transporting using UPS, unfortunately, it’s not possible. So unlike the USPS, you can ship some animals with UPS, but it’s still very limited.

Here are the three main options that owners of pets like reptiles, amphibians, fish and others can choose from:

#1. UPS My Choice for Pets Service

Its unique service allows customers to track their pet’s shipment in real-time. Customers can receive notifications about their pet’s location and estimated delivery time by signing up for UPS My Choice for Pets. This service also enables customers to set up delivery reminders and redirect the shipment to a different location if necessary. The package containing live animals must arrive by the next day.

#2. Domestic Animal Shipping

This service is available for customers who need to ship their pets within the United States. UPS allows for the shipping of small animals like birds and reptiles. Although, it’s worth noting that certain restrictions exist, such as the type of animal and the weight limit. 

#3. International Animal Shipping

UPS also offers an international animal shipping service for customers who need to ship their pets overseas. This service includes assistance with customs clearance and documentation requirements and is available for pets that meet the health and vaccination requirements of the destination country.

What Restrictions Does UPS Have for Shipping Pets?

When it comes to shipping pets with UPS, there are some restrictions you should be aware of. These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of your pet during transport. Here are the restrictions that UPS has for shipping pets:

#1. Species or Breed

While UPS allows shipping for some common pets like birds, they don’t accept all animals. Some types of animals like mammals, endangered species and poisonous reptiles are completely prohibited. Others may be restricted due to their species or breed. 

UPS does not allow the shipping of mammals like dogs, cats or farm animals. When the proper permits and documentation are provided, they only allow amphibians, reptiles, fish and invertebrates to be shipped.

#2. Health

Your pet must be in good health to be eligible for shipping with UPS. You will need to provide a veterinary health certificate to verify that your pet is healthy enough for transport.

Conclusion

Shipping a pet can seem like an intimidating process. But if you’re looking to ship your pet with UPS, you’ll need to be aware of their services, their restrictions, the shipping supplies you’ll need and the documentation you’ll need to provide. With the right preparation, you can ensure your pet arrives safely and sound.