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Moving with Pets

Costs, Removals, and Useful Tips

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Planning your relocation and wondering how to move abroad with pets? This complete guide covers everything you need to know, from cost breakdowns to choosing trusted international pet movers.

Key Takeaways

  • Pet relocation from Australia costs between $2,000 and $9,000.
  • Main expenses include vet checksflightsquarantine, and pet transport services.
  • Using certified international pet movers ensures safety and regulatory compliance.
  • Planning early and crate training reduce stress for both pet and owner.
  • Some countries like New Zealand, Canada, and Germany are more pet-friendly.
  • You can request free quotes from trusted movers to compare relocation prices.

What is the Cost of Moving Overseas With a Pet?

The cost of moving house with pets overseas from Australia typically ranges from around $2,000 to $7,500.

However, the costs of moving overseas with your pet depend on the destination, your pet’s size and breed, required veterinary care, the preparation of export documentation, airline fees, and quarantine.

Here is a breakdown of costs for some of the most common destinations for moving with a pet:

DestinationEstimated Cost (AUD)
Canada$4,000 – $8,000
Japan$5,000 – $9,000
New Zealand$2,500 – $4,000
United Kingdom$6,000 – $9,000
Germany$5,000 – $8,000
Thailand$3,000 – $5,000

Disclaimer: These prices are estimates and updated for July 2025.

Planning a move to Europe? Check out the Moving to Europe guide for targeted insights on EU pet imports.

Breakdown of Pet Relocation Services

To better understand the cost of moving pets abroad, here’s a look at what goes into it:

ServiceApproximate Cost
Veterinary checks & vaccinations$300 – $800
Microchipping & pet passport$100 – $300
Quarantine fees$500 – $2,000
Airline-approved pet carrier$150 – $400
Documentation & customs clearance$300 – $600
Professional pet moving company$1,500 – $5,000

Disclaimer: These prices are estimates and updated for July 2025

For detailed insights on pricing, refer to Sirelo’s guide on Moving Overseas Container Shipping Costs 2025, which includes pet transport considerations.

Pet Passport & Animal Health Certificate

  • To travel to EU countries, pets must have an EU animal health certificate issued within 10 days of arrival. It remains valid for 4 months for onward travel within the EU.
  • Great Britain now accepts valid pet passports issued in EU countries. Pets from non‑EU countries require a new health certificate (AHC) before each travel.
  • Tapeworm treatment is mandatory for dogs entering countries like Ireland, Norway, the UK, Finland, and Malta.
  • In the case of travel with more than five pets, specific rules or event participation proof are required in EU/UK contexts.

Special Cases

  • Moving with multiple pets: Most pet movers offer bundle deals, but the cost typically increases per crate.
  • Moving with an exotic pet: Often requires special import permits and may face stricter quarantine.
  • Pet travel insurance Australia: Optional, costs ~$100–$400 depending on coverage.

Request Removal Quotes for Your Pet Relocation

Would you like to receive a precise price estimation from a reliable pet moving company? With Sirelo, you can request up to five free removal quotes to plan your budget during your pet relocation!

Fill out the form below, and you will receive price estimations from our partner pet moving companies.

Request Removal Quotes for your Relocation
Obtain up to five free moving quotes!

Best International Pet Movers Australia

Choosing reliable pet shipping companies is key to a safe pet relocation. To be considered reliable and reputable, it should be a member of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) and follow IATA Live Animal Regulations, which are global standards for safe pet travel.

Here is a list of some of our best partners when it comes to pet relocation:

Keys The Moving Solution

This international pet moving company offers professional relocation services and customised moving solutions for wherever life takes you.

Whybirds International

Whybirds friendly and experienced staff can minimise your stress levels with careful planning and a proper understanding of your relocation requirements.

Palmers Relocations

With nearly 45 years of experience, they specialise in local, interstate, and international relocations, ensuring every move is smooth and stress-free.

Tip: When evaluating companies, it’s a good idea to check pet movers’ reviews and verify their track record for handling international and transcontinental pet movers operations.

If you would like to browse all our partner pet movers, you can take a look at our company list.

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Moving with Pets Tips

When you are figuring out how to move overseas with pets, preparation is everything. Moving with pets internationally comes with challenges, but with the right planning, it can be a smooth process.

Before Departure

Start your planning early to reduce last-minute stress. Essential steps include:

  • Vet check for health assessment and vaccination schedule.
  • Microchipping (required in most countries).
  • Crate training helps pets adjust to confined travel.
  • Routine maintenance like grooming, flea/worm control, and dietary prep.
  • Booking a flight with an airline-approved carrier.

Pet Travel Checklist: What to Pack

A simple moving with pets checklist can make a world of difference. Here is what you should pack:

  • Health certificate & vaccination records.
  • Pet passport (if applicable).
  • Favorite toy or blanket (to ease anxiety).
  • Medication (if needed).
  • Portable water bowl & food supply for travel days.

Need help choosing? Some of the best countries to move to with pets are those with minimal quarantine, pet-friendly policies, and quality pet healthcare, such as Portugal, New Zealand, Canada, and Germany.

Tips for a Stress-Free Pet Move

  • Start crate acclimation at least 2–4 weeks before departure.
  • Maintain a calm environment and stick to feeding routines
  • Consider pheromone sprays or vet-prescribed calming aids.
  • Avoid new food/treats close to moving day.
  • Keep ID tags updated at all times.

Ready to Move to Another Country With Pets?

Now that you know how to move internationally with pets, you are ready to go. If you still have doubts, check our related articles and our FAQ section below!

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to move a pet overseas from Australia?

What documents do I need to move my pet internationally?

Do I need a pet relocation company?

Do pets need passports to move abroad?

How long is a pet health certificate valid for?

Does pet insurance cover vaccinations?