International pet shipping costs from South Africa vary significantly based on destination and pet size. Small pets (up to 10kg) cost R 25,000 to R 55,000, medium pets (10-25kg) range from R 40,000 to R 80,000, and large pets (25kg+) cost R 55,000 to R 150,000+. Popular destinations: UK from R 35,000, Europe from R 30,000, USA/Canada from R 55,000, and Australia/New Zealand from R 50,000 (including mandatory quarantine which adds R 15,000-R 40,000). These are broad estimates only – get a free quote for accurate pricing.
As the only South African pet shipper offering 3 airline options on every quote, PETport helps you find the best balance of cost, schedule, and routing. With over 50 years of experience and branches at OR Tambo, Cape Town International, and King Shaka airports, we handle every aspect of your pet’s international journey.
International Pet Shipping Price Estimates by Destination
Important: The prices shown below are broad estimates only and are NOT quotes. Actual costs depend on many factors including exact destination, pet size, airline selection, documentation requirements, and time of year. Prices can change at any point. For an accurate quote tailored to your needs, please request a free quote from our team.
United Kingdom
The UK is one of the most popular destinations for South African pet owners. Requirements include microchipping, rabies vaccination, and an Animal Health Certificate.
| Pet Size | Price Estimate | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 10kg) | From R 35,000 to R 55,000 | 2-4 weeks preparation |
| Medium (10-25kg) | From R 50,000 to R 80,000 | 2-4 weeks preparation |
| Large (25kg+) | From R 70,000 to R 120,000 | 2-4 weeks preparation |
Europe (EU Countries)
European destinations require an EU Pet Passport or Third Country Veterinary Certificate, plus microchip and rabies vaccination.
| Pet Size | Price Estimate | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 10kg) | From R 30,000 to R 50,000 | 2-4 weeks preparation |
| Medium (10-25kg) | From R 45,000 to R 70,000 | 2-4 weeks preparation |
| Large (25kg+) | From R 60,000 to R 100,000 | 2-4 weeks preparation |
USA and Canada
North American destinations have specific requirements including valid rabies vaccination and health certificates. Some states/provinces have additional requirements.
| Pet Size | Price Estimate | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 10kg) | From R 55,000 to R 85,000 | 3-6 weeks preparation |
| Medium (10-25kg) | From R 70,000 to R 100,000 | 3-6 weeks preparation |
| Large (25kg+) | From R 85,000 to R 130,000 | 3-6 weeks preparation |
Australia and New Zealand
These destinations have the strictest requirements, including mandatory quarantine (10+ days in Australia), blood tests, tick and parasite treatments, and extended preparation timelines.
| Pet Size | Price Estimate* | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 10kg) | From R 50,000 to R 80,000 | 4-6 months preparation |
| Medium (10-25kg) | From R 70,000 to R 100,000 | 4-6 months preparation |
| Large (25kg+) | From R 90,000 to R 150,000 | 4-6 months preparation |
*Australia/NZ prices include mandatory quarantine fees which can add R 15,000 – R 40,000 to the total cost.
Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar)
| Pet Size | Price Estimate | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 10kg) | From R 25,000 to R 40,000 | 2-3 weeks preparation |
| Medium (10-25kg) | From R 40,000 to R 60,000 | 2-3 weeks preparation |
| Large (25kg+) | From R 55,000 to R 85,000 | 2-3 weeks preparation |
What’s Included in International Pet Shipping Costs?
International pet shipping involves multiple components:
- Airline cargo fees (30-50% of total cost) – varies by airline and pet size
- IATA-compliant travel crate – custom-fitted for your pet
- Veterinary documentation – health certificates, export permits
- Blood tests – especially for rabies titre tests
- Import permits – required by destination countries
- Quarantine fees – mandatory for Australia/New Zealand
- Ground transport – collection and delivery at both ends
- Agent/handling fees – professional management of the entire process
Factors Affecting International Pet Shipping Prices
- Pet Size and Weight – Larger pets require bigger crates and higher cargo fees
- Destination Country – Each country has different requirements and costs
- Airline Selection – PETport offers 3 airline options to compare
- Documentation Requirements – Some countries require expensive blood tests
- Quarantine – Australia, New Zealand, and some Asian countries require quarantine
- Timing – Peak seasons may affect pricing and availability
- Route Complexity – Direct flights vs connecting flights
Why PETport for International Pet Shipping?
3 Airline Options
We’re the only South African shipper providing quotes from 3 different airlines, letting you choose based on price, schedule, and routing.
50+ Years Experience
We’ve handled international relocations to every continent, navigating complex requirements for thousands of pets.
Full Documentation
We handle all paperwork including health certificates, import permits, customs clearance, and quarantine arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a pet internationally from South Africa?
International pet shipping from South Africa typically starts from R 25,000 to the Middle East and can exceed R 150,000 for destinations like Australia that require quarantine. The cost depends on your pet’s size, destination country requirements, and airline selection. These are estimates only – please request a free quote for accurate pricing.
How long does international pet shipping take?
Preparation time varies by destination: UK/Europe typically needs 2-4 weeks, USA/Canada needs 3-6 weeks, and Australia/New Zealand requires 4-6 months due to strict requirements. The actual flight is typically 12-24 hours depending on routing.
What documents are needed for international pet travel?
Requirements vary by destination but typically include: microchip, valid rabies vaccination, veterinary health certificate, import permit (some countries), blood tests (Australia/NZ), and export permit from South Africa. PETport handles all documentation.
Can all pets travel internationally?
Most healthy dogs and cats can travel internationally. However, some breeds (particularly brachycephalic/flat-faced breeds) may have airline restrictions. Senior pets and those with health conditions may need veterinary clearance. PETport will assess your pet’s suitability for travel.
Do pets go in the cabin or cargo hold?
For international travel, pets travel as cargo in pressurised, temperature-controlled holds. This is safe and regulated, with pets monitored throughout. Some very small pets may qualify for cabin travel on certain airlines, but cargo is standard for international moves.
Related: Pet Transport Prices South Africa | Dog Transport Prices | Cat Transport Cost | Pet Travel Crate Prices | Pet Immigration Services