If you’re planning a move to Australia with your pet, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is how transport works. Our complete guide to pet relocation to Australia explains the full process, requirements, and timeline before diving into the transport details below.
Australia has some of the strictest animal import rules in the world. That means transporting a dog or cat isn’t as simple as booking a flight. There’s a structured process involving veterinary steps, USDA paperwork, airline coordination, and mandatory quarantine in Melbourne.
This guide walks you through the real process of transporting a pet from the United States to Australia, what to expect at each stage, and how airlines handle these moves.
How Pet Transport to Australia Works
International pet transport to Australia typically takes 6–7 months of preparation before your pet boards a flight. The process includes:
- Veterinary requirements
- Government permits
- Airline cargo booking
- Import inspection
- Quarantine in Australia
Because flights to Australia must be booked through an approved pet transport provider, most families work with a professional relocation company to manage the timeline and paperwork.
Step-by-Step: Transporting a Pet from the USA to Australia
1. Start Planning Early
Australia requires advance planning due to rabies testing timelines and government approvals. Most families begin preparing 6–7 months before departure.
You’ll first confirm:
- Your destination city
- Your move timeline
- Your pet’s eligibility
- Breed restrictions
- Required vaccinations
If you’re still estimating budget, see our guide on cost of bringing a dog to Australia, which breaks down what impacts pricing.
2. Veterinary Requirements and Rabies Testing
Australia requires a rabies antibody (titer) test for pets traveling from the United States. This must be completed at least 180 days before travel.
During this stage, your veterinarian will:
- Verify microchip compliance
- Update vaccinations
- Complete blood testing
- Begin export paperwork
Missing a step can delay travel by months, which is why many families use a relocation specialist to coordinate the schedule.
3. Import Permit and Government Approval
Before your pet can travel, an Australian import permit must be approved. This confirms that all veterinary requirements have been met and reserves a space in quarantine.
Permit processing can take several weeks and must align with your planned travel window.
4. Booking Airline Transport to Australia
Pets traveling internationally to Australia must fly as manifest cargo, not in-cabin or as excess baggage.
Flights typically route through major U.S. gateway airports such as:
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- San Francisco (SFO)
- Dallas (DFW)
- New York (JFK)
From there, pets fly into Melbourne, where Australia’s primary quarantine facility is located.
Airlines That Commonly Transport Pets to Australia
Airline options change frequently based on routing, aircraft type, and seasonal temperature restrictions. Common carriers include:
- Qantas
- Air New Zealand
- United
- American Airlines (via approved routes)
Flights are booked based on:
- Crate size
- Breed
- Weather conditions
- Route availability
Because space is limited, booking typically happens weeks to months in advance.
5. Crate Preparation and Travel Day
Your pet must travel in an IATA-compliant travel crate sized correctly for international cargo transport.
Before departure:
- A final veterinary exam is completed
- USDA endorsement is issued
- Airline check-in occurs at cargo
- Your pet is monitored throughout the journey
Most pets travel safely and comfortably when properly prepared.
6. Arrival in Australia and Quarantine
All pets entering Australia from the United States must complete quarantine at the Mickleham facility in Melbourne.
Quarantine typically lasts:
- 10 days minimum for dogs and cats
During this time:
- Pets receive health checks
- Owners receive updates
- Pickup is scheduled once cleared
For a full breakdown, see our guide on Australia pet quarantine requirements.
How Long Does Transport to Australia Take?
From the first vet visit to final pickup in Australia, most relocations take:
6–7 months total preparation
1–2 days of travel
10 days quarantine
If you’re planning around a job relocation or visa timeline, it’s best to start early to avoid delays.
Can You Transport a Pet to Australia Without a Pet Shipper?
Technically, yes — but most families choose professional help because:
- Airline cargo booking can be complex
- USDA paperwork must be precise
- Timing errors can cause long delays
- Quarantine scheduling is strict
Working with a relocation specialist helps ensure everything aligns with Australia’s requirements and reduces stress during an already busy move.
Planning a Move to Australia with Your Pet?
Transporting a pet from the USA to Australia is a detailed process, but with proper planning, it’s very achievable. Thousands of families relocate pets successfully each year.
If you’re starting to plan your move, the best first step is understanding your timeline and requirements.
Need help planning your pet’s move to Australia?
Contact Starwood Pet Travel to discuss your timeline, route, and next steps.