Can You Make Money Transporting Dogs? Income Potential and Expenses of a Pet Transporter

An active independent pet transporter completing 15 to 20 jobs per month can make $8,000 to $10,000 monthly. Keeping that pace yearly, they could earn above $100,000. Expenses cut deeply into profits. Veteran transporters make much more than beginners.

Most start as employees/contractors at a shipping company, either on salary or the company takes a sizable earnings chunk. That way provides a living, but it’s nothing special. Independent transporters set their own hours. Relaxed ones earn modestly.

To operate this business, comply with regulations and obtain necessary licenses and permits. Contact authorities to understand requirements for transporting animals. This may include a commercial driver’s license, registering your business, and ensuring vehicle safety standards.

Cost of Pet Transport

  • Short domestic trips average $100 to $300.
  • Longer domestic trips average $350 to $600.

Transport involves:

  • Taking the animal to the airport
  • Arranging travel details
  • Ensuring pet safety and security
  • Kenneling until retrieval or drop-off

Tips for Pet Transporters

Tips for transporters average 10-15%, but aren’t required. Appreciated for good service.

How does dog transport work? Dog shipping services transport dogs around the country across countries. Experienced transporters send price bids. Once finding a transporter, confirm transport. Booking, pay a fee to CitizenShipper based on the trip’s mileage.

Before the trip, the dog is picked up by the hired team and taken to the veterinarian for checkup and paperwork. Larger animals travel as manifest cargo. Check in and pick up at the airline’s cargo facility, not the terminal.

  • One-way fees range $149 to $399, comparable to $250 airline fees. But the service is better. Dogs and cats will fly in refitted main cabin with 50 crates.
  • The average longer distance delivery cost is A$2500 to A$4000. Shorter distance transport averages A$300 to A$500.
  • Consider pet’s temperament and size when choosing a shipping company. Check credentials to conduct transport.

Dog Transport Safety Tips

  • Dogs not transported properly risk injury. ADAC shows proper use of boxes and systems. Protection need not be expensive. Acclimatization is important.
  • The easiest, safest way to move an injured large dog is a stretcher. Even a wood board works if the dog is secured.
  • Most airlines do not allow buying dogs seats. Depending on size, breed and airline rules, you may pay to have your dog fly with you.

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