How Much Does It Cost to Ship Your Dog from San Francisco to Australia?

by | May 2024 | Pet Shipping Cost, Pet Travel

Shipping a dog from San Francisco to Australia involves careful planning and consideration of various costs. Pet owners must account for airfare, veterinary services, pet travel agency fees, and government regulations. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the expenses involved in this international pet relocation:

1. Airfare

The airfare for your dog is one of the primary costs. Airlines charge different rates based on the size and weight of the pet, the route, and the airline’s policies. On average, shipping a medium-sized dog from San Francisco to Australia can range from $1,500 to $3,500. This includes the pet’s flight in the cargo hold, where pets are transported in climate-controlled and pressurized sections.

2. Pet Travel Crate

A sturdy, airline-approved travel crate is necessary for your dog’s journey. The cost of these crates varies based on the size and material. For a medium-sized dog, expect to spend between $200 and $400 on a crate that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards.

3. Veterinary Costs

Australia has stringent biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction of diseases. Therefore, specific veterinary requirements must be met before your dog can enter the country. These include:

  • Rabies Vaccination and Titer Test: Your dog must have a valid rabies vaccination and a blood test to ensure the vaccine is effective. This can cost between $200 and $400.
  • General Health Check and Certificate: A thorough health examination by a USDA-accredited veterinarian is required to obtain a health certificate. This typically costs $200 to $500. If you are looking for a vet in the San Francisco area, the price will likely be more as the many local vets have increased their prices in the past few years; some vets may require multiple visits for new patients before they offer their health certificate services.
  •  Additional Vaccinations and Treatments: Your dog may need additional vaccinations and treatments as per Australian regulations. Budget another $100 to $200 for these.

4. Government Fees

You dog’s vet documents need to be endorsed by USDA. This service costs approximately $150.

The Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources charges various fees for the importation of pets, including:

  • Import Permit: This permit costs approximately $480.
  • Quarantine Fees: All dogs entering Australia must undergo a mandatory 10-day quarantine at a government-approved facility. Quarantine fees range from $2,000 to $3,000 depending on the size of the dog and the length of stay.

5. Pet Travel Agency Fees

Moving a pet is a complicated process and requires a lot of expertise and coordination. Many pet owners choose to hire a pet travel agency to handle the complex logistics and paperwork involved in international pet shipping. These agencies offer services such as arranging flights, veterinary appointments, and quarantine accommodations. The fees for these services can range from $450 to $2,000, depending on the level of assistance required.

Transcon Pet offers affordable prices for most pet shipping routes leaving from California. In addition, we offer cost saving tips from our rich experiences in the pet shipping industry. If you want to self-manage your pet’s relocation, we can help you with our consultation services as well. Please fill in our inquiry form to get a tailored cost estimate.

6. Miscellaneous Costs

  • Microchipping: Your dog must be microchipped, which typically costs around $50.
  • Additional Transportation: You may need to arrange ground transportation to and from the airport, quarantine facility, or veterinary appointments. Budget an additional $100 to $200 for local transport. If you are located elsewhere in the country, we can arrange for ground or domestic air transport to our San Francisco or Los Angeles office.
  • Boarding: If you are not local and need pre-flight boarding services before your dog flies out, it will cost around $50-70 per day.

Total Estimated Cost

When all these costs are combined, the total expense for shipping a dog from San Francisco to Australia can range from $5,000 to $9,000 or more. This wide range depends on the size of the dog, the specific requirements, and whether you choose to use professional pet relocation services.

Conclusion

Shipping a dog internationally is a significant financial commitment, but with careful planning and budgeting, it is manageable. Ensuring that all requirements are met and seeking professional assistance can help make the process smoother for both you and your furry friend. Remember, the comfort and safety of your pet are paramount, and investing in proper preparation will ensure a safe and stress-free journey to their new home in Australia.

Transcon Pet Movers is a full-service pet shipping company located in California. We are an approved pet shipping specialist by Qantas Airways. Get our 5-star services at competitive prices. Get a quote from us now!