Ready to move your big, lovable furball across the country? Whether you’ve got a Golden Retriever, Labrador, or German Shepherd, making sure your pet’s journey is safe and comfy is a must. Popular routes like Los Angeles to New York or San Francisco to Austin can vary a lot in terms of cost and logistics.
Shipping a large dog across the country can be quite an adventure. From ensuring your furry friend’s comfort to navigating various transport options, it can feel like a lot to handle. Since large dogs in general can’t travel in-cabin on planes or trains, your options are between driving, using a land shipping company, or flying as manifest cargo. Each option has its own costs, challenges, and perks, so planning is key.
1. Driving Yourself
Cost Estimate:
Hitting the road yourself is often the most wallet-friendly option, covering gas, lodging, and food. For a coast-to-coast adventure, you might spend between $500 to $1,500, depending on gas prices, your trusty vehicle, and the scenic route you choose.
Time and Effort:
Expect to spend about 4-7 days on the road, depending on how many miles you can rack up each day. This method demands time and effort, with pit stops, overnight stays, and keeping your pup comfy along the way.
Finding pet-friendly lodgings can be a wild goose chase. You might spend hours online hunting for hotels that welcome big dogs. Options are limited, and pet fees can add up. Motel 6 is a reliable go-to, or you could embrace your inner adventurer and try camping!
Safety and Convenience:
Driving gives you control over your dog’s well-being, letting you make adjustments on the fly. It’s the most flexible option, but it can be tiring and not everyone has the time for a cross-country road trip.
2. Land Shipping Company
Cost Estimate:
Professional pet transport companies offer ground shipping services, with costs for a large dog ranging from $1,500 to $3,000. Prices vary based on distance, the company, and extra perks like door-to-door service.
Time and Effort:
Using a pro service cuts down on your effort significantly. They handle all the logistics, though you might need to book weeks in advance. Transit time is usually similar to driving, around 4-7 days. It can be longer if the driver has to take a detour for another pickup or delivery on their way.
Because of the nature of land shipping, arrival dates can be a bit of a guessing game, so be ready for some flexibility.
Safety and Convenience:
Top-notch companies prioritize pet safety with climate-controlled vehicles and regular exercise and potty breaks. But beware: some big companies subcontract to smaller operators, so service quality can vary. Do your homework to ensure your dog is in good hands.
3. Flying as Manifest Cargo
Cost Estimate:
Shipping a large dog as manifest cargo on a commercial airline is often the speediest option. Costs generally range from $500 to $1,000 for domestic flights, with extras like crates and health certificates potentially bumping the total to $2,000 or more.
Not all airlines accept pet cargo, and even those that do may have plane size restrictions, breed restrictions, and temperature rules. Your options might be more limited than you think.
Time and Effort:
Air travel is the quickest method, with flight time just a few hours. This significantly reduces the time your dog spends in transit, minimizing stress. While preparation and coordination are required, it’s a lot less time-consuming than a road trip.
Safety and Convenience:
Flying as manifest cargo is a great choice for getting your big dog across the country quickly and safely. Airlines have strict rules to ensure pet safety, with climate-controlled cargo holds and trained staff. Some even offer special pet services to keep your fur baby comfy.
While the cargo hold can be noisy and unfamiliar, most dogs handle it well with a bit of prep. Getting a travel-approved crate and a health certificate ensures your dog’s comfort and safety. Flying avoids the hit-or-miss service quality of land shipping, offering a more consistent and reliable experience.
Pros:
- Fastest way to cover long distances.
- Strict airline safety standards.
- Minimizes transit time, reducing stress for your dog.
- More consistent and reliable than land transport.
Cons:
- Potentially stressful environment for dogs.
- Risk of temperature fluctuations and noise.
- Complex prep and possible breed restrictions.
- Limited route availability.
Conclusion
Choosing the best way to ship your large dog across the US depends on your budget, time, and your dog’s needs. Driving yourself offers control and flexibility, land shipping balances convenience and safety, and flying as manifest cargo is the quickest and often most reliable option. Air travel minimizes transit time, ensuring your dog’s comfort and safety with strict airline standards. Always prioritize your dog’s well-being, and carefully consider each option to make the best choice for your furry friend’s journey. Thorough prep and research will ensure a safe and comfortable trip for your beloved pet.
A professional pet shipper like Transcon Pet Mover can help you navigate the challenges and find the best solutions for your needs. If you need our help, simple fill in our inquiry form. Also check out our tips for keeping large dog hydrated in crate travel, and for training your dog to get comfortable with its crate.