How to Choose the Right Pet Crate for a Move

Whether you drive or fly, you’ll need a crate to move your pet—dog or cat—to your new home. Crates provide protection for your pet in the case of an accident or shifting items, offer a sense of comfort during a stressful situation and, if you’re driving, keep them from distracting you. Not to mention, airlines require crates to transport your pet in the cabin or in cargo.

Choosing the right crate to get your pet from one home to the other is crucial, especially if you intend to fly. Airlines will refuse to transport your pet if his crate doesn’t meet certain standards. So, how do you find a crate for moving your pet that will provide the comfort and protection he needs? Follow these guidelines to choose the right pet crate before your next move.

Pet size dictates crate size

In general, no part of your pet should be taller or longer than his crate when he is standing outside of it. The crate should have enough space for him to stand up, turn around and stretch comfortably. Because your dog or cat is typically taller when they sit than when they stand, you may want to allow some extra height so they have the option to sit as well. If you’re flying, the airline may actually require enough room to sit, but it is not necessary if you are driving as long as your pet can stand in his crate.

Pet crates generally come in sizes ranging from 100 (small, 21” x 16” x 15”) to 700 (giant 48” x 32” x 35”). If your pet doesn’t fit in a 700 crate, you can have one custom built. In general, the larger the pet crate, the more expensive it will be, and obviously, a custom-built crate will be even more expensive as well.

To get the right crate size for your dog or cat, measure from the top of his head when he is standing to the floor and from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail. Then, add 4 inches to each measurement. If you own a snub-nosed dog, like a bull dog, purchase one size larger to ensure he is getting adequate ventilation during the trip.

Construction matters

Crates can be made from a variety of materials and come in any number of designs. There are pros and cons to each, but here are the most common.

Plastic: Rugged and sturdy, plastic pet crates are required for transportation in airline cargo holds and make good all-around travel crates. However, the thick walls can also restrict ventilation and prevent animals from seeing what’s going on around them. Make sure plastic crates have a wire door and adequate ventilation on the remaining four sides.

Wire: While wire crates allow more airflow and visibility, that sense of openness can add to the anxiety of some pets, especially if they see you and can’t get to you. Those pets would probably be better served by a plastic crate that lets them retreat and feel protected. Additionally, these crates may not be allowed in some airline cargo holds.

Soft-sided: Canvas and other lightweight material crates work well for smaller animals. These crates are a good option for anyone flying with their pet in the cabin since they can easily be pushed under the seat in front of you.

Wood: Typically, pet owners purchase crates made out of wood to incorporate them into their home décor, not to transport their pet. They’re just as much a piece of furniture as they are pet crates. However, if a wood crate is your only option, you could use it to transport your pet in the car.

Mode of travel narrows your choices

The way you intend to get to your new home can determine what type of pet crate you need to purchase. For example, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has very specific rules regarding pet crates used in airline cargo holds, and airlines have some restrictions on the pet crates in the cabin. Consider how you plan to get to your new home before you start shopping for a pet travel crate.

By car: Almost any durable crate will work if you plan to travel by car as long as there is adequate ventilation and the crate is secured in the back seat or in the back of an SUV or minivan. Do not let your pet roam free in the car or sit in the front seat since the front air bags can prove fatal in a collision, according to AAA. Avoid feeding your pet four to six hours before you begin your trip to avoid nausea, and stop every two hours to let your pet get a drink of water and take a break.

In the cabin: Soft-sided crates are your best option if you plan to bring your pet into the cabin with you on a flight to your new home. While there are few restrictions, the Federal Aviation Administration does state an in-cabin crate “must be small enough to fit underneath the seat without blocking any person’s path to the main aisle of the airplane.” Beyond that, it’s up to the individual airline. For example, American Airlines requires your crate be made of water-repellant materials and have mesh ventilation while United says the crate must be 18” x 11” x 11”. Check with the airline you are flying to see what restrictions on crates they have in place.

As airline cargo: Pets that do not fit under the seat in the cabin will need to fly in the airline’s cargo. The IATA has strict requirements for pet crates, and individual airlines add their own specifications. In general, acceptable pet crates have the following characteristics:

• Escape proof construction (usually rigid plastic, metal or wood)
• Secured with metal bolts or screws
• Adequate ventilation on at least three sides
• The right size for the pet (enough room to turn, stand and sit)
• Wire door with soft edges so your pet can’t scratch his nose or paws
• Solid and leakproof floor
• Holes in all four corners of the door to secure with ties
• Absorbent material like blankets (no hay, wood shavings or straw)
• Clean, empty dishes attached to the interior front door

Accessorize your pet crate

When you purchase a travel crate for your pet, you may want to add a few features to either help during the move or for convenience in your new home.

Crate trays: These removable pans slip under the crate and can be easily wiped down. They can be helpful in containing accidents and messes, like spilled water.

Crate covers: A great option for an anxious pet on moving day, crate covers slip over their crate and give them some the illusion of being tucked away in a quiet den.

Create casters: You may or may not be able to use these on moving day, but having wheels that fit on the bottom could be helpful as you try to find the perfect place for your pet’s crate in your new home.

Mats: Some companies sell mats that draw away moisture from their surface and fit perfectly into your pet’s crate.

Bowls: If your pet is flying in cargo, you’ll need to have bowls for water and food that attach to the front of his crate. Consider also purchasing an attachable funnel that makes it easier to feed and water your pet without opening the crate door.

Or, use a pet relocation service

Moving your pet can be stressful. Once you find the right crate, you’ll need to acclimate your pet to it so he’s comfortable being in it on moving day. You’ll also need to gather any necessary documentation. If you’re moving to another country, you’ll have to contend with booking his flights, potential quarantines and getting him through customs.

Instead, consider hiring a pet shipping service that can pick him before you leave your old home and deliver him to your new home on a specified day. Potentially, it could be less stressful for you both. And, depending on the service, you won’t need to worry about purchasing a pet crate. Many companies provide the right-sized crate for your pet’s travels.

Planning a move?

Hiring a professional moving company can make your move even less stressful. To find a capable moving company near you, check out Moving.com’s extensive network of reputable and reliable movers—all licensed and insured. You can rest assured your belongings will arrive at your new home safely and in good condition.