Why Is Cargo Pet Travel So Expensive?

We get asked this question a lot! 

When planning to relocate or travel internationally with your pet, one of the first surprises many owners face is the cost. Pet cargo travel isn’t cheap — but there are solid reasons behind the price tag. At SkyPaws UK, we often get asked: “Why does it cost so much to fly my pet?” So let’s break it down.

1. Your Pet Isn’t Luggage — They’re Live Animal Cargo

Unlike suitcases, pets require specialised handling, care, and compliance with strict airline and government regulations. Airlines classify them as live animal cargo, which means they need:

Dedicated, climate-controlled areas of the aircraft.
Staff trained in animal handling.
Additional documentation, checks, and coordination throughout the journey.

This is a bespoke, high-responsibility service, not a simple add-on to a flight.

2. Specialist Crates and Sizing

Airline-approved travel crates must meet strict IATA standards for size, ventilation, and security. Crates aren’t just boxes — they are carefully designed to allow your pet to stand, sit, and turn comfortably.

For larger pets, the crate can take up significant aircraft space, and airlines charge based on both weight and volume — much like shipping freight. Of course, cargo is often stacked in an aircraft. Pets cannot be stacked, and so their space is costly. 

3.Flight Costs Are Calculated Differently

When booking a passenger ticket, your price is based on your seat. For pets in cargo, costs are calculated using the chargeable weight — a combination of the pet’s weight and crate size. Larger pets or crates increase the cost significantly, as do certain destinations.

4. Veterinary Requirements and Paperwork

Each destination country has its own pet import rules, which can include:

Vaccinations
Microchipping
Rabies titres
Import permits
Veterinary health certificates

Preparing these documents can involve vet visits, lab tests, embassy approvals, and more — all of which add to the total cost. Mistakes can lead to quarantine or denied entry, so attention to detail is critical.

5. Airline Fees and Handling Charges

Airlines typically charge airfreight fees based on the chargeable weight,
live animal handling fees for special care during transit, security and x-ray fees to make sure your pet is travelling without anything in their crate that shouldn't be there, documentation fees for processing pet travel paperwork and fuel fees for the aircraft. Not to mention stopover fees if your flight isnt direct, and broker fees if it is mandatory at your destination. 

6. Customs Clearance and Import Taxes

When your pet lands, customs brokers may need to clear the pet through customs — sometimes incurring additional fees, inspection charges, or taxes, depending on the country. 

7. Door-to-Door Logistics (if required)

Many pet owners choose door-to-door services to minimise stress. This can include:

Home collection
Veterinary visits
Delivery to the airport
Clearance and delivery at the destination

Coordinating all of this often involves multiple specialists across different time zones.

The Bottom Line

Cargo pet travel is expensive because it’s complex, regulated, and designed to keep your pet safe and comfortable.

It’s not just a plane ticket — it’s a carefully managed logistical journey that prioritises animal welfare every step of the way.

At SkyPaws UK, we’re here to make the process transparent, as affordable as possible, and most importantly, stress-free for you and your pet. If you’d like a bespoke quote or have questions about your pet’s journey, get a quick quote here, or contact us here today 🐾☎️