{"id":10859,"date":"2023-05-02T07:57:16","date_gmt":"2023-05-02T13:57:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/?p=10859"},"modified":"2026-04-21T13:48:02","modified_gmt":"2026-04-21T19:48:02","slug":"comparing-pet-shipping-options-delta-airlines-vs-united-airlines","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/comparing-pet-shipping-options-delta-airlines-vs-united-airlines\/","title":{"rendered":"Delta vs United Airlines Pet Cargo Cost & Policies (2026 Guide)"},"content":{"rendered":"

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!<\/span><\/p>\n

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The Pet Shipping Process: An Overview<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Before diving into the comparison, let’s briefly discuss the general pet shipping process<\/a>. This will help you understand what to expect when transporting your pet<\/a> via air travel.<\/span><\/p>\n

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  1. Pre-travel preparations: <\/strong>Obtaining necessary documentation, ensuring your pet is healthy, and preparing them for the journey.<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Booking the flight:<\/strong> Depending on the airline and your pet’s size, you may need to book a separate reservation for your pet.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Check-in and boarding:<\/strong> On the day of the flight, you must check your pet in, provide any required documentation, and ensure they are safely and securely boarded.<\/span><\/li>\n
  4. In-flight care:<\/strong> During the flight, airline staff will monitor and care for your pet to ensure they remain safe and comfortable.<\/span><\/li>\n
  5. Arrival and pick-up:<\/strong> Upon arrival at your destination, you must collect your pet and complete any necessary paperwork or procedures.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Now that we have a basic understanding of the pet shipping process<\/a> let’s compare Delta Airlines and United Airlines.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Consider Ground Transportation as an Alternative to Air Travel<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    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.<\/p>\n

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    Delta Airlines Pet Shipping: Key Features<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    Delta Airlines offers pet shipping<\/a> through its<\/span> Delta Cargo<\/span><\/a> service. Here are some of the key features of Delta’s pet shipping option:<\/span><\/p>\n

    Safety and Comfort<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Delta Cargo ensures that pets are transported<\/a> 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.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Size and Breed Restrictions<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    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.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Pricing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    The cost of shipping a pet with Delta Airlines depends on the size<\/a> and weight of the pet and its carrier, as well as the destination. Prices typically range from $200 to $600 per pet.<\/span><\/p>\n

    United Airlines Pet Shipping: Key Features<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    United Airlines provides pet shipping<\/a> through its<\/span> PetSafe<\/span><\/a> program. Here’s what you need to know about United’s pet shipping service:<\/span><\/p>\n

    Safety and Comfort<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    United’s PetSafe program offers climate-controlled environments for pets during travel<\/a>, with personal handling and monitoring throughout the journey. Their dedicated PetSafe team is available 24\/7 for assistance.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Size and Breed Restrictions<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Like Delta, United Airlines has size and breed restrictions for pet travel<\/a>. 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.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Pricing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Pet shipping fees<\/a> with United Airlines vary based on the pet’s size, weight, and destination. Prices generally range from $200 to $700 per pet.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Comparing Pet Shipping Options: Delta Airlines vs. United Airlines<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    When comparing pet shipping options between Delta and United, consider the following factors:<\/span><\/p>\n