Transporting a pet from one city to another whether it’s for a move, an extended trip, or just a visit can be a stressful experience. Pets are family, and ensuring their safe and comfortable journey is a priority. That’s where pet courier services and professional pet relocation providers step in, handling everything from logistics to documentation and humane travel arrangements.
But one of the first questions pet parents ask is: Pet Courier Service Cost India? The answer isn’t a flat number it depends on several factors, including distance, mode of transport, pet size, and the level of service you choose. Below is a practical breakdown of what you can expect when arranging pet transportation within India.
What Is a Pet Courier Service?
A pet courier service is a specialised transport solution for moving your animal safely from one location to another. Instead of you driving your pet or handling the travel yourself, professionals take care of:
- Crate preparation and handling
- Door‑to‑door pickup/drop‑off
- Safe travel environments (temperature‑controlled)
- Trained handlers and real‑time updates
- Documentation assistance (if required)
This ensures your pet travels with comfort and minimal stress, whether it’s a short intercity route or a long interstate relocation.
Typical Pet Courier Service Cost in India
Here’s a clearer picture of price brackets you can expect based on common relocation distances and services:
Domestic Pet Transport (Within India)
These are rough ballpark figures many pet owners encounter when booking professional services:
| Service Type | Typical Cost (₹) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Short distance intercity | ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 | For routes within a state or 300–800 km |
| Mid‑distance state‑to‑state | ₹15,000 – ₹30,000 | Longer road or combined transit |
| Long distance travel | ₹30,000 – ₹50,000 | Cross‑country relocation |
| Large/Multiple Pets | ₹30,000 – ₹60,000+ | Includes larger dogs or more extensive logistics |
| Simple pet courier (basic) | ₹7,000 – ₹20,000 | Basic pickup and drop within a region |
These ranges reflect door‑to‑door services, including crate handling, transport, and basic support but they can vary based on your city and service provider’s policy.
How Distance Affects Pet Courier Costs
Distance is one of the biggest pricing factors:
- Short Trips (50–200 km): Reasonably priced because travel time and fuel costs are low.
- Medium Trips (200–800 km): Prices rise moderately as time on road increases.
- Long Trips (Above 800 km): You may see significantly higher quotes, especially if travel spans multiple states or requires overnight stays.
Professional carriers plan routes carefully and usually offer combined services for longer distances to ensure comfort and timely delivery throughout the journey.
Mode of Transport & Its Price Impact
Road Transport (Pet Taxi / Van)
The most common and often affordable option. Well‑equipped vans with ventilation, carriers, and sometimes handlers are used for intercity travel. Costs vary with the distance and vehicle type.
Rail Transport
Some companies arrange pet movement by train. This can be cheaper than road for long distances, especially when handled professionally with crate assistance and check‑in support. Approximate costs for train transport start from a few thousand rupees for short to medium distances.
Air Transport (Domestic)
Though faster, this is usually the most expensive. Booking your pet on a domestic flight — whether in cargo or with special veterinary handling significantly increases costs. Airlines have specific fees and crate requirements that add to the total.
Also read about:
What Else Affects Pet Courier Pricing?
Pet Size & Breed
Larger pets require bigger crates, more spacious vehicles, and sometimes an assistant all of which add to the cost. Smaller pets are easier to transport and usually less costly to relocate.
Crate & Equipment Costs
Specialised travel crates (especially IATA‑approved ones) can cost extra from a few thousand upwards depending on size and quality.
Documentation & Vet Requirements
For safe travel (especially air or interstate), a health certificate or vaccination record may be required. Some services include this; others charge extra.
Additional Services
Extra services like on‑the‑day handling, GPS tracking, temperature‑controlled vehicles, and professional pet sitters can elevate the quality of service — but will increase the price accordingly.
City‑to‑City Pet Relocation Costs
Here’s a real‑life snapshot of how much relocation might cost between major Indian cities when using professional service providers:
| Route | Approx. Cost (₹) | Transit Type |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi → Mumbai | ₹20,000 – ₹40,000 | Road / Multi‑modal |
| Delhi → Bangalore | ₹25,000 – ₹45,000 | Longer distance |
| Delhi → Hyderabad | ₹18,000 – ₹35,000 | Road or mixed |
| Delhi → Kolkata | ₹22,000 – ₹40,000 | Cross‑state |
These are estimates always confirm with the pet courier you plan to hire.
Tips to Keep Pet Transport Costs Reasonable
Plan in Advance
Last‑minute bookings often cost more. Planning gives you time to compare quotes and choose better deals.
Choose Combined Transport
For long distances, combining road and rail can sometimes be cheaper than road alone.
Ask for Customized Quotes
Don’t settle for sticker prices many services provide tailor‑made quotes based on your specific needs.
Prepare Your Pet
Getting vaccination certificates and health documents ahead of time reduces processing delays and hidden costs.
Conclusion
Moving a pet in India doesn’t have to be stressful but it does cost more than simply driving yourself. Pet courier service costs vary widely, typically from around ₹5,000 to ₹50,000+ domestically, depending on distance, transport type, and services included. By understanding how pricing works and what affects it, you can choose the best relocation option for your furry friend.
Always request detailed quotes, clarify what’s included, and plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey for your pet without breaking the bank.
FAQs
What is the average cost of a pet courier service in India?
Domestic pet relocation generally costs between ₹5,000 and ₹50,000 depending on distance and services.
Do prices differ for cats and dogs?
Yes — larger dogs tend to cost more due to bigger crates and transport space.
Can I transport my pet by train?
Yes — some services arrange rail transport, which can be more affordable.
