Travel Crate

International airlines follow strict regulations for pet travel crates to ensure:

• Your pet can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably
• Proper airflow and ventilation during flight
• Structural safety during handling and transport

Using the wrong crate size can result in:

• Airline refusal at check-in
• Travel delays
• Stress or discomfort for your pet

That’s why crate selection is a critical part of the relocation process.

Most international flights require an IATA-compliant hard-sided travel crate.

These crates typically include:

• Rigid plastic or fiberglass construction
• Ventilation on all four sides
• Secure metal door and locking system
• Leak-proof base
• Proper labeling and live-animal stickers

Soft-sided carriers are not permitted for cargo or checked-baggage international travel.

Airlines do not size crates based on your pet’s weight alone. Instead, crate size is determined by your pet’s physical measurements.

Your pet must be able to:

• Stand upright without touching the top
• Turn around comfortably
• Lie down naturally

If the crate is too small, airlines may deny boarding – even if your pet fits inside.

You will need a measuring tape and your pet standing naturally.

1. Length (A → B)

Measure from:

• The tip of your pet’s nose
• To the base of their tail (not the end of the tail)

2. Height (C → D)

Measure from:

• The floor
• To the top of your pet’s head or the tip of the ears (whichever is higher)

3. Width

• Measure your pet at the widest point of the body (usually shoulders or hips).

Once measurements are taken:

• The crate’s internal length must exceed your pet’s body length
• The internal height must exceed standing height
• Width must allow your pet to turn comfortably

Airlines often require a crate one size larger than what pet owners expect.

• Choosing a crate based only on weight
• Buying the smallest crate your pet “fits” into
• Waiting until the last minute to purchase a crate
• Not crate-training before travel
• Using non-IATA or airline-incompatible crates

These mistakes can result in travel delays or denied boarding.

We strongly recommend introducing your pet to their crate weeks before travel.

Helpful tips:

• Leave the crate open at home
• Add familiar bedding or toys
• Offer treats and meals inside the crate
• Gradually increase time spent inside

Crate training helps reduce anxiety and makes travel far less stressful.

Yes. As part of our international pet relocation services, we:

• Advise on airline-approved crate sizes
• Confirm compliance with airline and destination rules
• Help ensure your pet travels safely and comfortably

Crate selection is coordinated alongside documentation, veterinary requirements, and flight logistics.

Learn more on our Services page or contact us for guidance.