Rochdi Rais ·
Updated March 5, 2026
Delta Airlines charges $200-$600 for pet cargo shipping, while United Airlines charges $200-$700. Both airlines restrict snub-nosed breeds and require pets over 20 lbs to fly in cargo. CitizenShipper’s ground transport averages $300-$400 for the same routes with door-to-door service and no breed restrictions. Let’s find out more about their pet cargo costs and policies!
The Pet Shipping Process: An Overview
Before diving into the comparison, let’s briefly discuss the general pet shipping process. This will help you understand what to expect when transporting your pet via air travel.
- Pre-travel preparations: Obtaining necessary documentation, ensuring your pet is healthy, and preparing them for the journey.
- Booking the flight: Depending on the airline and your pet’s size, you may need to book a separate reservation for your pet.
- Check-in and boarding: On the day of the flight, you must check your pet in, provide any required documentation, and ensure they are safely and securely boarded.
- In-flight care: During the flight, airline staff will monitor and care for your pet to ensure they remain safe and comfortable.
- Arrival and pick-up: Upon arrival at your destination, you must collect your pet and complete any necessary paperwork or procedures.
Now that we have a basic understanding of the pet shipping process let’s compare Delta Airlines and United Airlines.
Consider Ground Transportation as an Alternative to Air Travel
With many restrictions around pet air travel, ground transportation is often a better solution. It’s the safest, most reliable and most humane way to send a pet long distances.
Delta Airlines Pet Shipping: Key Features
Delta Airlines offers pet shipping through its Delta Cargo service. Here are some of the key features of Delta’s pet shipping option:
Safety and Comfort
Delta Cargo ensures that pets are transported in a climate-controlled environment, keeping them comfortable throughout the journey. Additionally, they provide a 24/7 live animal desk to assist with any concerns during the trip.
Size and Breed Restrictions
Delta Airlines has specific size and breed restrictions for pets. Generally, small pets can travel in the cabin, while larger pets must be transported as cargo. Some breeds, such as brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs and cats, are not accepted due to increased health risks during air travel.
Pricing
The cost of shipping a pet with Delta Airlines depends on the size and weight of the pet and its carrier, as well as the destination. Prices typically range from $200 to $600 per pet.
United Airlines Pet Shipping: Key Features
United Airlines provides pet shipping through its PetSafe program. Here’s what you need to know about United’s pet shipping service:
Safety and Comfort
United’s PetSafe program offers climate-controlled environments for pets during travel, with personal handling and monitoring throughout the journey. Their dedicated PetSafe team is available 24/7 for assistance.
Size and Breed Restrictions
Like Delta, United Airlines has size and breed restrictions for pet travel. Small pets can travel in the cabin, while larger pets are shipped as cargo. United also restricts certain breeds from travel due to health concerns.
Pricing
Pet shipping fees with United Airlines vary based on the pet’s size, weight, and destination. Prices generally range from $200 to $700 per pet.
Comparing Pet Shipping Options: Delta Airlines vs. United Airlines
When comparing pet shipping options between Delta and United, consider the following factors:
- Both airlines provide climate-controlled environments for pets and offer 24/7 customer support.
- Size and breed restrictions are similar for
both Delta and United, with small pets allowed in the cabin and larger pets shipped as cargo. Specific breed restrictions apply for both airlines.
- Pet shipping pricing varies for Delta and United Airlines, depending on factors such as the pet’s size, weight, and destination. However, the costs are generally comparable, ranging from $200 to $700 per pet.
Additional Services
Both Delta and United Airlines offer additional services to make pet shipping as smooth and stress-free as possible. These services include:
- Assistance with pre-travel preparations, such as obtaining required documentation and ensuring your pet meets health requirements.
- Access to a network of pet travel professionals who can help you navigate the complexities of international pet shipping regulations.
- Tracking capabilities to monitor your pet’s progress during the journey.
Airline-Approved Pet Carrier Requirements
Choosing the right travel carrier is crucial for your pet’s safety and is a strict requirement for both Delta and United. Both airlines adhere to IATA (International Air Transport Association) regulations for pets traveling in cargo. So let’s explore what this means for you!
- The carrier must be made of rigid material like hard plastic, wood, or metal, with a secure, spring-loaded lock on the door. The hardware must be metal nuts and bolts—plastic latches are typically not permitted for cargo travel.
- Proper ventilation on at least three sides is mandatory.
- The crate must be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around completely, and lie down in a natural position.
- For in-cabin travel, soft-sided carriers are often allowed, but their dimensions must fit under the seat in front of you.
Always measure your pet and compare it to the specific dimension limits listed on each airline’s website before purchasing a carrier, as these rules are strictly enforced at check-in. Remember to label the carrier clearly with ‘Live Animal’ stickers and your contact information.
Health Certificate and Vaccination Rules
Both Delta and United require a valid health certificate, often called a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), for pets traveling in cargo. This document must be issued by a licensed veterinarian. For most domestic travel within the United States, the certificate must be dated within 10 days of your flight. It needs to confirm your pet is healthy enough for air travel and is free of infectious diseases.
The certificate must include your pet’s breed, age, and up-to-date vaccination records, especially for rabies. Most airlines mandate that the rabies vaccine was administered at least 28-30 days prior to the travel date.
For international flights, the requirements are far more complex and may require specific USDA APHIS endorsements and additional forms depending on the destination country. Always confirm the exact CVI timeline and destination-specific health requirements with both the airline and the destination country’s consulate well in advance of your booking.
Restricted Breeds: Brachycephalic Dogs and Cats
A major consideration when choosing between Delta and United is their policies on specific animal breeds. Both airlines have strict restrictions on transporting brachycephalic, or ‘snub-nosed,’ dogs and cats due to their increased risk of respiratory issues at high altitudes and in fluctuating temperatures. These breeds are often prohibited from traveling in the cargo hold. Let’s take a look at which breeds are affected.
- Commonly restricted dog breeds include all types of Bulldogs (French, English, American), Pugs, Boxers, and Boston Terriers.
- Restricted cat breeds often include Persians, Himalayans, and Burmese.
- The full list is extensive and can include mixed-breed animals that exhibit brachycephalic features.
- While some of these breeds may occasionally be permitted to fly in the cabin if they meet size and weight requirements, their travel in cargo is almost always banned.
- Because these lists are updated to ensure animal safety, you must check the most current breed restriction page on the official Delta and United websites before planning your travel.
How to Save Money on Pet Air Cargo
Regardless of whether you choose Delta Airlines or United Airlines for your pet’s travel needs, taking the necessary steps to ensure a successful experience is essential. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Research airline policies: Familiarize yourself with the specific pet shipping policies of the airline you choose. This will help you understand their requirements and restrictions.
- Schedule a pre-travel veterinary check-up: Ensure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations before the trip. Obtain any necessary documentation, such as health certificates or vaccination records.
- Select an appropriate pet carrier: Invest in a high-quality, airline-approved pet carrier that provides ample space and ventilation for your pet.
- Prepare your pet for the journey: Help them acclimate to the travel carrier by allowing them to spend time in it before the trip. Ensure your pet is comfortable and familiar with the carrier to reduce stress during the journey.
- Label the carrier: Clearly label your pet’s carrier with your contact information and any special instructions for airline staff.
- Pack essential items: Provide a comfortable blanket, a favorite toy, and any necessary medications for your pet during the trip.
- Stay informed: Keep track of your pet’s progress during the journey using the tracking capabilities provided by the airline.
New CDC Rule
The CDC has recently passed new laws concerning flying with pets. These new rules are intended to limit the exposure of rabies in the United States. Due to these new rules, airlines have decided to embargo pets from flying into the United States from countries or territories considered “high risk” for rabies or if the pet has been in a high-risk location within the past six months.
Why Ground Transport Costs Less Than Air Cargo
Ground pet transport usually costs less than air cargo because it avoids many of the extra fees and logistical costs associated with airline travel. When shipping a pet by plane, owners often pay for airline cargo handling, airport processing, specialized airline-approved carriers, and sometimes even a ticket for an accompanying passenger or air nanny. These costs can quickly add up, especially for large pets that must travel in the cargo hold.
Ground transportation, on the other hand, typically involves fewer overhead costs and more flexible routing. Professional drivers—such as those you can find through marketplaces like pointer align-baseline”>CitizenShipper—can transport multiple pets along similar routes, which helps reduce the price per shipment. Because ground transport also eliminates airport fees and airline restrictions, it often becomes the most affordable option for long-distance pet travel while still providing safe, climate-controlled transport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does Delta charge for pet cargo?
Which is cheaper for pet shipping, Delta or United?
Do I need pet insurance for cargo shipping?
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Delta Airlines and United Airlines offer comprehensive pet shipping services to ensure the safety and comfort of your furry friend during air travel. By comparing their offerings and considering factors such as safety, size, and breed restrictions, pricing, and additional services, you can make the best decision for your pet’s needs.
Remember to follow our tips for a successful pet shipping experience and consult What airline allows pets to fly alone for more information on pet-friendly air travel.
Rochdi Rais is a senior editor and author at CitizenShipper. He has been a senior editor for ParadiseMedia, USA Herald, and more. He also loves writing about himself in 3rd person.
Patrick MacFarland has been a teacher, a candidate for public office, and a local tour guide. But now he dedicates his time writing full-time, currently at CitizenShipper and VeraContent.
