03/12/2024
✈️✈️In-Cabin vs In-hold/Cargo✈️✈️
I want to take a moment and explain the difference in transporting pets in cabin vs in hold/cargo.
Yes, some pets are just too big to fly in cabin, and they require transport in hold/in cargo. But pets around 20 pounds and under can fly in cabin, without issue.
I have several people ask what is the difference between the options and I let them decide what is best. There is no wrong answer, you do what you think is the best option for you and your pet.
-In Cargo— If you pet is too big for in cabin, cargo is one option. Your pet is placed in a plastic or wooden crate, and the pet is dropped off at the cargo area of the originating airport. If the pet is coming or going from another country, a broker will be required along with all other documentation such as health certificate etc. This pet will not have a person on the plane, they are handled by the airline. (Cargo can be used for any size pet, but it’s the only option for those too big for in cabin)
-In Hold—If your pet is too large to fly in cabin, but you want someone on the plane to es**rt your pet, this is the option for you. A flight nanny is there to ensure the pet has all the proper paperwork, and if there is a delay or cancellation, a flight nanny is there to care for the pet until the next flight goes out. In cargo, the pet is returned to the cargo bay and awaits for the next flight or is returned until another flight is scheduled. Some international flights have a layover and they require self transfer. Self transfer is when the flight nanny has to pick up her luggage, and check back in at the connecting airport. This is not uncommon for European flights. A flight nanny gets off the plane, we pick up the pets from the oversize luggage area, give them fresh water, clean the kennel if the pup has had a accident, and check the pet back in. (In hold can be used for any size pet, but it’s the only option for those too big for in cabin)
-In Cabin— This is for pets that are under 20 pounds and can fit comfortably in a soft sided carrier. The pet is with the flight nanny from the time we pick up the pet from the breeder until we hand off the pet to the new owners. If there is a flight delay or cancellation, the pet is with me. If a hotel is required, again, the pet is with me, relaxing in a cozy hotel. Most transports from Europe/UK to the US/Canada is 12-48 hours max, delivery time. But again, your pet is with me, in the plane next to me, in the hotel, or at the airport.
All 3 of these options have different price points. Cargo is the least expensive option but it’s also less hands-on with your pet.
The in cabin option is usually more expensive between the 3, however, it’s also the most hands-on. Think of in-cabin as your pet’s personal chauffeur.
The last thing I want to add is if you are transporting a pet from Europe/UK, using a courier from Europe, and you are told the pet is in-cabin, please ask for a copy of the flight itinerary. I often get messages, from customers, who assure me their pet is being transported in cabin for an exceptionally low price. But as it turns out, their 5 pound chihuahua or tiny kitten, flew cargo.
The reason for this long post is to educate customers/breeders on the transporting options available. It is also to make customers/breeders aware that if you want the best of the best for your pet, please ask questions, if it’s too good to be true, I assure you it is. And lastly, if you decide you want your pet to be transported in-cabin, this is usually the most expensive option, however, it is the quickest and most luxurious option.
If you have any questions about the different transport options, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Credit transport tsl