Shipping Guidelines
Simple rules for packing, labeling, documents and pet travel, so your shipment moves smoothly and arrives safely.
Pack it right
Good packing protects your goods and avoids delays at inspection.
Use strong packaging
Choose sturdy boxes or crates. Fill empty space so items cannot move, and seal all seams well.
Label clearly
Put the full sender and recipient names, addresses and phone numbers on every package, plus your tracking number if you have one.
Protect valuables
Wrap fragile and high-value items with extra care and ask us about insurance before you ship.
What can and cannot be shipped
Rules change by country, carrier and transport type. If you are unsure about an item, ask us before you pack it.
Generally not allowed
- Illegal goods and counterfeit items
- Weapons, ammunition and explosives
- Flammable, toxic or corrosive materials
- Cash and negotiable currency
Allowed only with approval
- Batteries, especially lithium batteries
- Perishable food and plants
- Medicines and medical devices
- Live animals (see the Pet travel tab)
Declare honestly. Wrong or missing descriptions can cause delays, extra fees or seizure of the shipment at customs.
Documents you may need
Exact requirements depend on what you ship and where it is going. We tell you what applies to your route.
Commonly required
- Commercial invoice showing the items and their value
- Packing list describing what is in each package
- Valid ID for the sender and sometimes the recipient
- Customs declaration with accurate item descriptions
- Permits or licences for regulated goods
How we help
- Tell you which documents your route needs
- Check paperwork for common mistakes
- Prepare transport documents for your shipment
- Keep you updated if customs asks for more
Tip: Duties and taxes may apply at the destination. The recipient is often responsible for them, so check this before you ship.
Travel crate
Pets travel in a strong, well-ventilated crate that meets airline rules. We confirm the right one for your route.
Right size
Your pet must be able to stand, turn around and lie down naturally, without touching the top of the crate.
Secure build
A hard-shelled crate with a metal door, a secure latch and strong fastenings. Many airlines do not accept plastic clips alone.
Air and water
Ventilation on several sides, and water bowls attached inside the door that can be refilled from outside.
Strong breeds may need a reinforced crate on some airlines. Contact us early so we can plan the right one.
Health & veterinary documents
Rules differ by destination. These are the items most countries ask for, so confirm your exact requirements with us and your vet.
- International health certificate signed by an authorized vet shortly before travel
- Microchip that meets international standards, recorded in your pet's documents
- Rabies vaccination given well before departure, as the destination requires
- Blood test (titer) for destinations that need proof of rabies protection, often months ahead
- Parasite treatment within the time window the destination sets
- Import permit where the destination country requires one
Travel day
Light meal
Give a small meal several hours before check-in. Avoid a heavy meal right before travel.
Familiar scent
Add a soft blanket or an unwashed piece of clothing that smells like home to help your pet stay calm.
No sedation
We strongly advise against sedatives. They can affect breathing and blood pressure, and airlines may refuse sedated pets.
Breed and weather limits
Flat-faced breeds
- Bulldogs, pugs and similar breeds have small airways and struggle with heat
- Some airlines restrict them, especially in hot months
- They may need a larger crate and a cooler route or timing
Hot and cold weather
- Many airlines refuse live animals when the ground is too hot or too cold at any stop
- Limits differ by airline, so we check your route and season
- We suggest flexible dates for the safest option
Book early. Pet travel needs vet visits, tests and airline space, so start planning at least 30 to 60 days ahead.
Related pages
Everything you need before you book.
Not sure what applies to you?
Tell us what you are shipping and where. We will explain the rules for your route.