As people move around from one city to another or one country to another for work or family reasons, the need for pet relocation services has increased. These pets are an important part of many families, and when it comes time to move, their owners want to take them with them. However, moving with pets can be difficult and will cost you money. How much does pet relocation cost? Let’s find out.
Introduction
Pet relocation cost can be prohibitive. The cost of pet relocation services varies depending on the distance traveled, the size of the pet, and the type of service required. Some pet relocation companies charge by the mile, while others charge a flat fee. The most common services offered by pet relocation companies include transportation, customs clearance, and veterinary services. Also, pet relocation cost varies a lot depending on whether its a domestic pet relocation or international. So let’s look at each of them separately.
Cost Of Domestic Pet Relocation & Transportation In India
For domestic pet relocation, pet parents have three options – Road, Train, or Air.
Domestic Pet Relocation Cost By Road
Pet relocation by road is advised when the distance is fairly small or there is no train/flight connectivity to the place you are relocating to. There are quite a few domestic pet relocation service providers who can help you with road pet relocation. Most of these service providers have specialized vehicles which are customised to carry your pet comfortably. They also provide a trained pet handler who can accompany your pet during the transportation. These service providers charge anywhere between 20 to 40 Rs per kilometer. So, pet relocation to a city that is about 1000 KMs away will cost anywhere between 20,000 to 40,000 INR. Some providers may also charge for the return trip, in which case your cost will double.
Domestic Pet Transportation Cost By Train
If there is a train connection to your desired relocation destination, this is the most fun and comfortable mode of transport for your pet. We have written a detailed article on how to travel by train with your pet. You will have to book a minimum of 2 first-class tickets and buy one parcel ticket for your pet. Assuming a distance of roughly 1000 KMs, 2 first-class tickets will cost roughly 10,000 INR. A parcel ticket for your pet will cost another 1000 INR. Taking into account some taxi fares to and from the railway station, the cost of pet relocation by train will still be less than 15,000 INR.
Domestic Pet Transportation Cost By Air
There are very limited options in India when it comes to domestic pet relocation by air. As of now, only Air India carries pets on board or in the cargo hold. So, if you have an Air India flight to your destination, you can choose this option. You will have to buy an approved and appropriate cage for your pet. This will cost anywhere between 5000 to 30,000 INR. The cost of a flight ticket will be around 10k INR. There will be some small costs associated with that. You will also need all the vaccination and health records for your pet. So, domestic pet relocation by air in India can cost anywhere between 20k to 50k INR.
Cost Of International Pet Relocation & Transportation From India
If you are living in India and need to relocate your pet to a new country, the cost of international pet relocation and transportation can be expensive. There are a few things to take into account when budgeting for this process, such as the type of pet transportation service you choose, the required pet vaccinations and paperwork, and any additional services you may need such as air freight or customs clearance.
Depending on the country to which you are relocating and the type of pet you are relocating, some or all of the following costs may apply:
Vaccination Cost
A lot of countries have specific requirements in terms of what vaccination you must give to your pet and how many days before the travel your pet should take that vaccination. Make sure to read the animal import rules of the country carefully.
Microchipping Cost
Almost all countries require that your pet has a microchip. Some countries also require that microchip should be inserted before/after the rabies vaccine.
A pet health certificate or pet passport
Along with a pet health certificate, which is mandatory for all countries, some countries also require a pet passport.
Airline checked baggage or cargo fees
This is the cost of a flight ticket for your pet. This will depend on the size of your pet and the distance.
Buying or renting a travel crate
Most airlines require that you buy an IATS certified crate for your pet. This will typically cost between 5000 to 40,000 INR.
Customs charges
Even your pet has to go thru the customs and customs department if some countries will have a vet inspect your pet. Customs fees can vary between 4000 INR to 30,000 INR depending on import duties, vet fees, etc.
Quarantine fees
Depending on the type of pet you are relocating and their vaccination status, some countries will require a quarantine period at an approved quarantine center for your pet. This can vary from one week to a few months. The quarantine period will cost somewhere around 30,000 INR per month but depends on the type of pet and any specific requirements.
An animal import permit
Depending on the type of pets you are relocating, some countries require an import permit. This may cost you around 40,000 INR.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of domestic and international pet relocation and transportation can be expensive. Domestic pet relocation can cost you anywhere between 20,000 to 50,000 INR. International pet relocation can cost you anywhere between 100,000 to 300,000 INR. Some things to keep in mind are the weight of your pet, the size of your pet, and whether or not you will need a quarantine period. By doing your research and planning ahead, you can make the process less expensive and less stressful for both you and your pet. Also, the process of international pet relocation can be very tricky for certain countries. Hence, it is important that you do thorough research and hire a reliable pet relocation service provider.