How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Dog or Cat from the U.S. to China?

by transconpet | Sep 2025 | Pet Shipping Cost

A Comprehensive Guide for Pet Owners Planning International Moves

Introduction: Love, Logistics, and the Price of Flying Furry Friends to China

Relocating your dog or cat from the USA to China is both an emotional and logistical journey. Beyond the airfare and crates, you’ll need to navigate China’s import regulations, vaccination schedules, customs clearance, and—in some cities—quarantine requirements.

Costs can range from around $2,500 for a small pet to over $7,000+ for a large dog, depending on the destination city, the pet’s size, and the complexity of the route. The process is made easier with professional guidance, especially if you’re facing challenges like banned breeds, multiple pets, or pets traveling alone.

Here’s a full breakdown of what you can expect—from pre-export vet care to arrival customs—and how Transcon Pet Movers can handle every step.

1. U.S. Preparatory Expenses (Typically $300–$1,200+)

a. Veterinary Visits & Vaccinations

ISO-compliant microchip implantation: $45–$75
Rabies vaccination (required 30+ days before travel): $20–$50
Core vaccines (DHPP for dogs, FVRCP for cats): $25–$50 each

b. USDA Document Endorsement

USDA APHIS endorsement of international health certificate: $38–$173

c. Optional Tests

Rabies antibody titer test (only required in some cases, or for certain city entry rules): $150–$300

2. Shipping & Crate Costs (Approximately $2,500–$5,500+)

a. Airfare & Cargo Handling

Small dog or cat (manifest cargo, USA to Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou): $2,500–$3,200
Medium dog: $3,000–$4,200
Large dog: $4,500–$5,500+

b. Airline-Approved Crate

Standard IATA crate: $200–$400
Oversized/custom crate: $500–$1,200

3. China Import Permits & Government Fees

While China does not require a pre-approved import permit for pets from the USA, customs clearance fees and quarantine charges (if applicable) can apply:

Customs clearance agent service: $200–$500
Quarantine (7–30 days in cities that require it): $300–$800+ depending on facility and pet size

4. Ground Transportation & Local Handling ($200–$800+)

U.S. Side:

Home pickup to departure airport: $200–$500 depending on distance

China Side:

Airport clearance & delivery to home (Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou/Shenzhen/Chengdu/Kunming/Hong Kong): $300–$800

5. Additional and Contingency Costs

Boarding before departure: $30–$70/day
Emergency vet visits due to flight delays: $100–$500
Document courier fees: $50–$150
Extra charges for solo pet shipments or multiple pets

6. Real-World Examples

Example 1 – USA → Shanghai, Small Dog

Vet & vaccines: $250
Crate + cargo airfare: $2,800
Customs clearance & home delivery: $400
Total ≈ $3,450

Example 2 – USA → Beijing, Large Dog

Vet & vaccines: $300
Crate + cargo airfare: $4,800
Quarantine & clearance: $700
Home delivery: $500
Total ≈ $6,300

7. Timeline: Why Costs Add Up

Microchip & rabies vaccine: At least 30 days before travel
Health certificate & USDA endorsement: Within 10 days before departure
Flight booking: 2–6 weeks in advance for best routing
Customs & quarantine arrangements: 1–3 weeks depending on city

Delays in paperwork or missing vaccination deadlines can mean rebooking flights, extra boarding days, and additional vet visits.

8. How to Save on Overseas Pet Relocation to China

Start planning at least 2–3 months ahead to avoid rush fees
Use a professional pet relocation agency for compliance (avoiding mistakes that lead to fines or pet rejection)
Book flights early for better pricing and shorter transit times
Use a crate that can be reused for return trips or future moves

9. DIY vs. Professional Assistance

DIY:

Lower upfront cost (saving $1,000–$3,000 in agency fees)
But requires handling all paperwork, bookings, and customs arrangements yourself
Higher risk of delays, rejected entry, or quarantine issues

Professional (like Transcon Pet Movers):

Costs more, but includes end-to-end management
Avoids costly mistakes and ensures pet’s comfort and safety
Especially valuable for banned breeds, multi-pet households, or pets traveling alone

10. Total Cost Summary

Route	Typical Total Cost
Small dog/cat → China	$2,800–$4,500
Medium dog → China	$3,500–$5,000
Large dog → China	$4,800–$6,500+
Customs mistake/re-quarantine	$500–$1,500+ extra

Final Thoughts: Preparation Is Everything

Relocating your dog or cat from the USA to China isn’t just about buying a plane ticket—it’s a regulated process requiring paperwork, health checks, and precise timing. Done right, your pet can arrive safe, happy, and ready to settle into their new home with you.

Contact us today to get a personalized quote for your pet’s relocation. With us, you can move your furry family member with complete peace of mind.

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