Pet transport prices in South Africa vary significantly based on journey type and pet size. Domestic transport ranges from R 1,500 to R 25,000 (small pets on short trips to large dogs cross-country), while international shipping starts from R 25,000 for small pets to nearby destinations and can exceed R 150,000 for large breeds to Australia or New Zealand including quarantine. These are broad estimates only – get a free quote for accurate pricing tailored to your pet’s journey.
At PETport, we believe in transparency. With over 50 years of experience and branches at all major South African airports, we’re the only shipper offering 3 airline options on every quote – giving you the power to choose based on price, schedule, and routing.
Domestic Pet Transport Prices
Important: The prices shown below are broad estimates only and are NOT quotes. Actual costs depend on many factors including exact route, pet size, transport method, time of year, and specific requirements. Prices can change at any point. For an accurate quote tailored to your needs, please request a free quote from our team.
Road Transport Within South Africa
Road transport is often the most cost-effective option for domestic pet moves. These estimates are based on typical journeys:
| Distance/Route Type | Price Estimate | Example Routes |
|---|---|---|
| Short distance (same province) | From R 1,500 to R 5,000 | JHB to Pretoria, CPT to Stellenbosch |
| Medium distance (neighbouring provinces) | From R 5,000 to R 12,000 | JHB to Durban, CPT to PE |
| Long distance (cross-country) | From R 12,000 to R 25,000+ | JHB to Cape Town, Durban to Cape Town |
Air Transport Within South Africa
Air transport is faster and often necessary for longer distances or when time is critical. Air transport typically includes crate, handling, and cargo fees:
| Pet Size | Price Estimate | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Small pets (up to 10kg) | From R 3,500 to R 8,000 | Crate, handling, cargo fees |
| Medium pets (10-25kg) | From R 6,000 to R 12,000 | Crate, handling, cargo fees |
| Large pets (25kg+) | From R 10,000 to R 20,000 | Crate, handling, cargo fees |
International Pet Shipping Prices
International pet relocation is more complex and costs vary significantly based on destination country requirements, airline selection, and your pet’s size. As the only South African shipper offering 3 airline options on every quote, PETport helps you find the best balance of cost and service for your international move. For detailed destination-specific pricing, see our international pet shipping cost guide.
| Destination | Small Pet | Medium Pet | Large Pet |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | From R 35,000 | From R 50,000 | From R 70,000 |
| Europe (EU) | From R 30,000 | From R 45,000 | From R 60,000 |
| USA / Canada | From R 55,000 | From R 70,000 | From R 85,000 |
| Australia / New Zealand* | From R 50,000 | From R 70,000 | From R 90,000 |
| Middle East | From R 25,000 | From R 40,000 | From R 55,000 |
*Australia and New Zealand prices include mandatory quarantine fees which can add R 15,000 – R 40,000 to the total cost.
What Affects Pet Transport Prices?
Every pet transport quote is unique. Here are the main factors that influence your final price:
- Distance and Route – The primary cost driver for domestic transport
- Pet Size and Weight – Larger pets require bigger crates and incur higher cargo fees (see our dog transport prices for size-based pricing)
- Number of Pets – Multi-pet discounts may apply in some cases
- Transport Method – Road vs air, direct vs connecting flights
- Destination Requirements – Blood tests, vaccinations, quarantine (international)
- Travel Crate – Size and type of IATA-compliant crate needed
- Timing and Urgency – Peak seasons and last-minute bookings may cost more
- Special Needs – Brachycephalic breeds, senior pets, or medical requirements
Pet Travel Crate Prices
All pets travelling by air must be in IATA-compliant travel crates. PETport provides custom-built, sterilised crates sized perfectly for your pet:
| Crate Size | Suitable For | Price Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Small (Size 1-2) | Cats, small dogs up to 10kg | From R 1,200 to R 2,500 |
| Medium (Size 3-4) | Medium dogs 10-25kg | From R 2,500 to R 4,500 |
| Large (Size 5-6) | Large dogs 25-40kg | From R 4,500 to R 7,000 |
| Extra Large (Size 7) | Giant breeds 40-60kg | From R 6,500 to R 10,000 |
| Custom Built | Giant breeds 60kg+ | From R 10,000 to R 18,000 |
Learn more about our travel crates and kennels, or see our detailed pet travel crate prices guide.
Why Choose PETport for Your Pet’s Journey?
3 Airline Options
We’re the only South African pet shipper that provides quotes from 3 different airlines, giving you the power to choose based on price, schedule, and routing.
50+ Years Experience
With over half a century of pet relocation expertise, we’ve handled every scenario imaginable – from puppies to parrots, domestic moves to international relocations.
Nationwide Coverage
With branches at OR Tambo (Johannesburg), Cape Town International, and King Shaka (Durban), we provide seamless service across South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Transport Prices
How much does it cost to transport a pet in South Africa?
Domestic pet transport in South Africa typically costs from R 1,500 for short distances to R 25,000+ for long-distance cross-country moves. Road transport is generally more affordable than air transport. These are estimates only – please request a free quote for accurate pricing for your specific journey.
What is the cheapest way to transport a pet?
Road transport is typically the most affordable option for domestic pet moves within South Africa. However, for very long distances (like Johannesburg to Cape Town), air transport may be more cost-effective when you factor in the stress on your pet from extended road travel. Our team can advise on the best option for your situation.
How much does international pet shipping cost 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. PETport provides 3 airline options on every international quote so you can compare.
Are pet transport quotes free?
Yes! PETport provides free, no-obligation quotes for both domestic and international pet transport. We’ll give you up to 3 airline options so you can choose what works best for your budget and schedule.
What’s included in PETport’s pet transport pricing?
Our comprehensive quotes include collection and delivery, IATA-compliant travel crate, airline cargo fees, handling at origin and destination, and documentation assistance. For international moves, we also handle veterinary requirements, permits, and customs clearance. 24/7 WhatsApp support and real-time tracking are included with every booking.
Do prices change during peak seasons?
Yes, airline cargo rates can fluctuate based on demand, especially during December holidays and Easter. Booking in advance helps secure better rates and availability. Our monthly rate updates mean your quote always reflects current pricing.
Related Pet Transport Services
Explore more about our pet transport services:
Pricing Guides by Pet Type
- Dog Transport Prices – Costs for transporting dogs of all sizes
- Puppy Transport Cost – Special care transport for young dogs
- Cat Transport Cost – Single or multiple cat shipping prices
- International Pet Shipping Cost – UK, Australia, USA, Europe and more
- Pet Travel Crate Prices – IATA-compliant crate pricing
Other Services
- Pet Transport Around South Africa – Our domestic services
- Pet Immigration Services – International relocations
- Travel Kennels and Crates – IATA-compliant crates
- Request a Quote – Get your free personalised quote