If you’re planning to move your furry friend to the United Kingdom, you’ve probably asked the same question we hear every day at En Route Pet Transport Ltd:
“Why can’t I just fly my pet directly into the UK?”
It’s a logical question, but the answer is complex. A combination of UK government regulations, airline policies, and logistical hurdles makes flying a pet directly into the UK a stressful and incredibly expensive process.
That’s why so many savvy pet owners and even airlines recommend a smoother, more affordable alternative: flying your pet into a major European airport like Paris (CDG), Frankfurt (FRA), Milan (MXP), or Amsterdam (AMS) and then travelling overland with a professional pet transport service.
Here’s a simple breakdown of why this is not only a perfectly legal option but often the very best choice for your pet’s well-being and your peace of mind.
The Challenge: The UK’s Strict Rules on Flying Pets
Unlike most countries, the United Kingdom has a strict no-pets-in-cabin policy for inbound flights (the only exception is for registered assistance dogs). You also can’t bring them as checked baggage.
Instead, the UK’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) requires all pets entering Great Britain by air to:
- Fly as manifested cargo.
- Arrive on a DEFRA-approved airline.
- Land at a UK airport with an approved Animal Reception Centre (ARC).
This cargo-only system turns a simple journey into a complicated logistical puzzle, adding significant costs and stress for both pets and their owners.
Why UK Air Cargo is So Expensive and Complicated
So, what does flying your pet as “manifested cargo” actually involve? Get ready for a long list:
- High Costs: You’ll need to hire a specialised pet shipping agent, pay for cargo space, handling fees, import taxes, and ARC inspection fees. The total can easily range from £1,500 to over £3,000, depending on your pet’s size and the route.
- Complex Paperwork: The process involves mountains of customs forms, veterinary records, and airline-specific documentation.
- Stress for Your Pet: After landing, your pet will be taken to an Animal Reception Centre, where they may have to wait for hours in an unfamiliar environment before you can be reunited.
For most people, the financial and emotional toll is simply too high.
The Solution: A Simpler, Safer Route Through Europe
This is where a professional pet courier service like En Route Pet Transport Ltd creates a better path. By flying your pet into a pet-friendly European hub, you can bypass the UK’s cargo-only restrictions.
Here’s how our trusted, two-step process works:
- You Fly Your Pet to Europe: You book a flight for your pet—often in the cabin with you or as checked baggage—to a major European airport like Paris, Frankfurt, Milan, or Amsterdam.
- We Take It From There: Our professional, DEFRA-authorised driver meets you and your pet upon arrival. We handle all the border formalities and transport your companion safely and comfortably to your UK address in our climate-controlled, pet-approved vehicles.
This method avoids the stress of cargo travel, gives you more control, and is significantly more cost-effective.
Is This Route Legal? Yes, Absolutely!
As long as your pet meets the UK’s Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) requirements, this route is 100% legal. Our team ensures all rules are followed for a smooth entry at the UK border (via Eurotunnel or ferry).
To enter the UK, your pet simply needs:
- A working microchip.
- A valid rabies vaccination.
- Tapeworm treatment (for dogs only).
- A valid Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of entering the EU.
We are fully audited and compliant with both UK (DEFRA) and French (DDETSPP) authorities, ensuring every journey meets the highest standards of animal welfare and legal compliance.
Why Pet Owners Trust En Route Pet Transport Ltd
We specialise in making the impossible feel easy. Our Europe-to-UK pet transport service is designed to eliminate stress and provide a safe, affordable alternative to air cargo.
Our door-to-door service includes:
- Airport collection from Paris (CDG), Frankfurt (FRA), Milan (MXP), and Amsterdam (AMS).
- Safe transit in DEFRA-approved, climate-controlled vehicles.
- Expert handling of all customs paperwork and border checks.
- Constant updates so you know where your pet is every step of the way.
Ready to Plan Your Pet’s Journey to the UK?
Let us handle the logistics so you can focus on the happy reunion. Contact En Route Pet Transport Ltd for a free, no-obligation quote today. Your pet’s comfort and safety are our number one priority.