How to Ship a Dog to Another State: Ground, Air & Costs (2026)

The fastest way to ship a dog to another state is by air (typically $200–$600 in-cabin, $500–$1,500+ for cargo). The safest and most cost-effective option is hiring a professional ground transporter through a pet transport marketplace like CitizenShipper, which typically costs $300–$1,200 depending on distance.

Every year, thousands of pet owners across the United States need to transport dogs across state lines — whether they’re picking up a puppy from a breeder, relocating for work, or reuniting with a pet after a move. Each method of dog transportation has different costs, safety considerations, and legal requirements.

This guide compares four methods for shipping a dog to another state: hiring a professional ground transporter, driving the dog yourself, flying the dog in cargo, and using an in-cabin flight or air nanny. CitizenShipper is a pet transportation marketplace that connects pet owners with background-checked, reviewed drivers for door-to-door ground transport across all 50 states.

Method 1: Hire a Professional Ground Transporter

Why is it more effective to hire a dog transporter? Here are a few of the biggest reasons:

1. Experience and Expertise in Transporting Pets

When you use a pet transportation marketplace like CitizenShipper, you can see firsthand these experienced professions know how to transport a dog to another state. Driver profiles include reviews from previous customers, so you can select a transporter with years of experience successfully relocating dogs.

2. They Have the Right Equipment for the Job

This is really important — to ensure your dogs safety while traveling on the interstate, you need to have the right equipment. You can just stick your dog in the backseat and hope for the best. If you drive the dog yourself, you’re going to want to buy harnesses or a carrier that can be strapped into the back. That way, in the worst case scenario of a car accident, your precious pooch is protected from harm. That equipment can be expensive, and has limited utility after you arrive at your destination. Plus it takes up a lot of space!

3. It’s More Humane than Air Cargo Transport

One of the worst ways to transport your pet long distance is putting them in the cargo area. You wouldn’t check your children as luggage on a flight, would you? Why do that with your beloved pet? When dogs fly in the cargo area, they have no idea what is going on, causing stress and anxiety that can even lead to physical injuries — and rarely, death. When you use a pet transporter to drive your dog to its destination, they’ll place their entire focus on your dog.

According to CNBC, the cost of an airplane ticket has jumped 25% over the last year, putting prices above pre-pandemic levels. Hiring a ground transporter to move your dog is significantly more cost-effective than air travel.

Benefits of Hiring a Pet Transporter Through CitizenShipper

CitizenShipper is a two-sided pet transportation marketplace where pet owners post their transport needs and receive quotes from independent, background-checked drivers. Unlike traditional pet shipping companies, CitizenShipper lets you choose your specific driver based on their reviews, experience badges, and direct communication through the platform’s messaging system. Most shipment listings receive driver quotes within hours. Pet owners can negotiate trip details, ask about vehicle type and setup, and verify the driver’s track record before committing — with no upfront cost to list.

What Ground Transport Costs

Ground transport costs for dogs shipped through CitizenShipper typically range from $300 to $1,200, depending on distance. A cross-country trip from New York to California averages $800–$1,200. Shorter trips between neighboring states may cost $300–$500. These costs usually include door-to-door pickup and delivery, regular exercise stops, and photo updates during transit. Drivers on CitizenShipper set their own rates, so pet owners receive multiple competitive quotes after listing their shipment for free.

Constant Communication

The great thing about a personalized shipper is the ease of communication. Many drivers on the platform have GPS, so you can get updates on your pet’s journey along the way and know exactly when he’ll arrive home. You might even be able to arrange for your driver to take photos of your dog’s big journey so you can have a visual record, too!

Do Your Research and Make a Solid Dog Transportation Choice

So if you’re wondering, “How can I ship my dog to another state?” the answer should be clear. There are many methods available, with some less practical than others. For the most cost-effective, personal, and safest option, hire a transporter through a CitizenShipper. It’s also a great option for transporting your cat or any other pet!

Ready to find a driver you trust? Browse real reviews, chat directly with transporters, and only pay when you’re confident in your choice. Find a Dog Transporter →

Method 2: Drive the Dog Yourself

Of course, if you feel like you’re up for the task, have the right equipment and think it’ll be more cost-effective, you can can you ship a dog to another state by yourself. When you are the one transporting your dog on the road, the costs you have to worry about are gas, lodging, food for you and the dog, and pre-trip veterinary visits and vaccinations. To be sure you’re prepared for the journey, create a checklist.

Vet Visit and Vaccinations

Nearly every U.S. state requires dogs crossing state lines to have a current rabies vaccination. Minnesota, Kansas, and Ohio are the only states that do not require rabies vaccination for dogs. Florida requires dogs to be vaccinated against parvovirus, distemper, and adenovirus in addition to rabies. Most states require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) issued within 10 days of travel. Pet owners should verify their destination state’s specific requirements through the USDA APHIS Pet Travel website before departure.

Plan Your Route Ahead of Time

Don’t just hit the road without a plan! When you’re traveling with a dog, you’ll need to carefully plan out stops along the route for exercise, feeding, and bathroom breaks (for you and the dog).

• Typically, pet transportation experts recommend stopping every four hours or so for these breaks.
• If your trip is going to be longer than a single day, you’ll need to find a place to sleep at night.
• Research dog-friendly hotels along your route and book ahead of time — there’s nothing worse than sleeping in a parking lot because the only hotel in town is overbooked.
• If you’re the outdoorsy type, consider a dog-friendly campsite along the route.

If you’re driving alone with the dog, a major hurdle will be your own bathroom breaks. Obviously, you can’t leave a dog alone in the car without air conditioning. Some experienced pet transporters suggest carrying two sets of keys with you, leaving the car running with the AC on as you use the bathroom at a rest stop. The issue with this, of course, is bystanders who may not realize the car is running with the air conditioning on and alert authorities. Another great suggestion is to make stops at big-box pet stores like Petco. These stores encourage you to bring in your dog and typically have public bathrooms.

Estimated DIY Costs

Driving your dog to another state yourself typically costs $150–$800, depending on the distance. Budget for gas ($100–$400 for cross-country), pet-friendly hotel stays ($75–$150 per night), meals ($30–$50 per day), and a pre-trip veterinary visit with health certificate ($50–$200). You may also need to purchase a crash-tested dog harness or airline-grade crate ($50–$200) if you don’t already own one. For a multi-day cross-country drive, total costs often approach or exceed the price of hiring a professional ground transporter.

Safety First

Just as seat belts are essential for humans, your dog should be restrained when in the car with either a pet belt or inside a crate. This is both safer for the dog and for you. Give your dog a comfortable surface to lie on. If your dog gets travel sick, there are plenty of natural options, such as ginger tablets, to ease nausea. Try to keep your dog’s routine as close as possible to its normal one on your journey to ease other stress. This might mean making your journey several days instead of one long drive. It will be worth it for your furry friends to also enjoy the trip!

Method 3: Ship a Dog by Air in Cargo

Large Pets Must Fly in the Cargo Area

While it’s not the most humane approach, the quickest way to transport your dog to another state is air travel. Flying thousands of miles only takes a few hours, whereas driving the same distance will take at least a few days. On the other hand, air shipping is the most expensive dog transportation method. Airline fees for pets range from $80 to several hundred dollars.

For most pet owners, the main concern isn’t affordability — it’s safety. Air travel simply carries more inherent risks than ground transportation. According to the Department of Transportation, in 2021, the rate of incidents involving pets transported by air was .82 per 10,000 animals transported, up from the rates in 2019 and 2020.

• Checking your dog as cargo on a plane can be risky.
• The change in temperature and pressure causes breathing problems or other stress reactions.
• Every year, dozens of animals die or are injured in the cargo compartments of commercial airplanes.
• While that’s a small percentage of the total number of animals that fly annually, the stories are harrowing. Few are willing to take that chance with their beloved pet
• Many airlines refuse to transport dogs in the cargo hold, and those that do have restrictions on the type of dog they’ll allow onboard.
• As of 2026, only a few major U.S. airlines still transport dogs in cargo holds. Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines offer cargo pet transport programs, though each has breed, size, and seasonal restrictions. Delta Air Lines suspended its cargo pet transport program. Pet owners should verify current cargo policies directly with their airline before booking, as these policies change frequently.
• Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dog breeds — including Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Pekingese, Shih Tzus, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels — are banned from air cargo on nearly all U.S. airlines. These breeds face elevated risk of respiratory distress during air travel due to their shortened airways.

If you find that your only option is to transport your dog in the cargo area of the plane, be sure to do your research. Look for airlines that have a good reputation with pets.

Understand the Pet Air Travel Rules and Regulations

Flying with your dog is not as simple as arriving with a carrier and buying your dog a ticket. There are rules and regulations you must follow before your pet can board the plane.

• Your pet must be over eight weeks of age.
• His rabies immunization must be up to date.
• A veterinarian-issued health certificate that states the animal is in good condition for air travel.
• The certificate must be issued within 10 days of the flight.

Airlines will not hesitate to turn you and your pet away unless each one of these rules is met. Typically, older dogs or those with pre-existing health conditions won’t be certified for air travel. In those cases, you’ll have to find another dog transportation option.

Make the Trip Successful by Planning Ahead

Airlines suggest you provide the dog with several items to ensure the trip is a successful one. These items keep your pet comfortable, hydrated, and fed.

• Ensure the carrier is large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around while inside.
• There are no wire sides to the cage — this prevents your pet from sticking out a paw and getting injured.
• The carrier must be well-ventilated; 14% of the carrier’s surface area must have ventilation holes.
• A third of the ventilation holes must be on the top of the carrier.
• There should be grips or carrying handles on the carrier.
• The floor of the carrier should be leak-proof and lined with a blanket or towel to absorb any accidents.
• Mark the carrier with your name, address, and phone number. If there’s a separate contact at the destination, include their info as well.
• You’re required to offer your pet food and water four hours before departure.
• There should be a document certifying that the dogs or cats were offered food and water during the four hours proceeding check-in of the animal. The document should include the time of the food and water offering, the date, and the signature of the cosigner. There should also be food and water instructions for the animals for 24 hours.
• Additionally, you need to include two empty bowls for food and water, the dog’s food, and instructions for feeding.
• The food and water bowls must be securely attached to the inside of the crate and can be filled without opening the crate door.
• If you’re required to provide your own water, many airlines recommend sending the water frozen to prevent spilling.

Air Cargo Costs

Air cargo transport for dogs typically costs $500 to $1,500 or more, depending on the airline, route, and dog size. This includes the airline cargo fee ($200–$500 per segment), an airline-compliant crate ($100–$300 if you need to purchase one), a veterinary health certificate ($50–$200), and any additional cargo handling fees. Brachycephalic breeds that are banned from air cargo will need to use ground transport or in-cabin options instead.

2. Travel with the Dog in the Cabin

If you’re wondering how to ship a puppy to another state or, likewise, if you own a smaller breed of dog, there’s a much more desirable option available. If she meets some size and weight requirements, your dog can fly in the cabin under your seat.

• The dog carrier must be able to fit under your seat.
• For example, United Airlines requires that hard sided be no larger than 12″ tall, 17.5″ deep, and 7.5″ wide.
• Soft-sided carriers are required to be no larger than 11″ tall, 18″ deep, and 11″ wide.
• There may be some slight variation between airlines, but generally their requirements are similar.
• The pooch has to weigh under 15 pounds to fly in the cabin.
• Most airlines allow qualifying pets to fly in the cabin.

Not only is in-cabin travel safer for your dog, but it’ll cut down on your anxiety levels. With cargo travel, you won’t see your pup between check-in and arrival at your destination. You’ll have no idea how they are doing and if they’re being properly taken care of. When your dog is under your seat, you can periodically check in and make sure she’s doing okay. You can monitor her breathing and anxiety level while providing comfort during the flight.

Method 4: In-Cabin Flying or Air Nanny

Most U.S. airlines allow dogs under 20 pounds (including the carrier) to fly in-cabin under the seat in front of you. United Airlines requires hard-sided carriers no larger than 17.5″ × 12″ × 7.5″ and soft-sided carriers no larger than 18″ × 11″ × 11″. Requirements vary slightly between airlines but are generally similar. Airlines typically charge $95–$200 per flight segment for in-cabin pets. In-cabin travel is significantly safer than cargo because you can monitor your dog’s breathing, anxiety, and comfort throughout the flight.

An air nanny is a professional companion who flies with your dog in the airline cabin, handling the entire trip from pickup to delivery. Air nannies are most commonly used by breeders shipping puppies to buyers in other states. The pet owner pays for the one-way pet ticket plus a round-trip ticket for the air nanny, making this the most expensive transport option — typically $800–$2,000 depending on the route.

In-Cabin and Air Nanny Costs

In-cabin flying costs $200–$600 total, including the airline pet fee ($95–$200 per segment) and a pet carrier if needed. Air nanny services cost $800–$2,000 because you’re covering the nanny’s round-trip ticket plus the pet’s one-way fare. For pet owners who can’t fly with their dog themselves but want the speed of air travel, an air nanny is the premium option.

Air travel isn’t the only option. Ground transport is safer, more affordable, and available for every breed. See what it costs for your route. Compare Ground Transport Quotes →

Keep Calm and Carry On

IMPORTANT: The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends that you should NEVER sedate your pet during a flight because it can increase the risk of heart problems. Most airlines will refuse to let your dog on the plane if she’s been sedated. There are several ways to keep your dog calm that won’t risk her health:

• Ensure the crate is as comfortable as possible.
• Place a thick warm blanket on the bottom of the crate and have something to cover the crate to mimic nighttime.
• Provide your dog with an exciting chewy toy that will keep her occupied throughout the flight.
• Make sure you have a way to give her water if the flight is longer than an hour. Just like us, the conditions inside the cabin can be very dehydrating for your pet.

Once you land, allow your dog to relieve itself as soon as possible and get lots of attention from you. If possible, have someone meet you at the airport so you can spend some time with your puppy on the journey home. Different rules apply for animals that are certified as comfort or aid dogs. Again, check with your airline for all the information before committing to the tickets.

If you need to move a dog cross-country, create a free listing on CitizenShipper today and find out how much you can save on safe, reliable, and affordable dog transportation!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my dog fly in the cabin of an airplane?

Airlines have specific protocol for the size and weight of a dog that can fly in the cabin. Most airlines require a dog to weight between 20-25 pounds or less (including the carrier) and fit beneath the seat in front of you. 

Is it possible to transport a dog in the cargo area of a plane as checked luggage?

Most airlines no longer allow pets as checked luggage. Now, they require large dogs to fly in a special cargo area of the plane. This cargo area is generally very safe because it's pressurized and temperature controlled like the main cabin. 

However, there are many restrictions when it comes to flying a dog in cargo. According to the USDA, the air temperature at the arrival and departing airport cannot be above 85 °F (29.5 °C) or below 45 °F (7.2 °C). Additionally, brachycephalic (aka snub-nosed) breeds are not allowed to fly in the cargo area.

What do I do if my dog cannot fly to its destination?

You can always drive your dog yourself to the destination. For most people this isn't a reasonable solution. Instead, consider hiring a ground-based pet transporter. You can find a transporter with the right level experience that fits your budget by using a two-way dog transportation marketplace like CitizenShipper. You'll be able to vet the transporter by reading reviews, viewing their profile and chatting through an instant messaging system.