Pet transport to South Africa
Moving Pets to South Africa Made Simple
Moving pets to South Africa takes a bit more thought than most people realise. The import rules can change, the paperwork needs to be spot on and timings must be managed carefully. It’s not the kind of thing you want to be working out as you go.
That’s why many UK pet owners choose to work with Transfer Animals. We’ve been organising international pet relocation to South Africa for over 20 years and know how to avoid the common headaches, from paperwork delays to clearance issues on arrival. Every move is a little different.
However much support you want with the big move, we’ll work with you to make sure your beloved pet’s transport to sunny South Africa goes smoothly and that they’re ready to settle in when they arrive.
Any questions?
Feel free to call us on 01403 212 900 and speak to one of our helpful team members today.
Why Moving Pets to South Africa is Different
Moving pets to South Africa involves key steps and careful paperwork. Here’s what sets it apart:
1. An import permit must be approved before travel
2. A DEFRA export health certificate is required before your cat or dog leaves the UK
3. Specific vaccination requirements apply, including rabies
4. Pets must travel as manifested cargo (they can’t travel in the cabin or as excess baggage)
5. Customs clearance needs to be arranged ahead of arrival in South Africa
6. Timings for vaccinations, blood tests, paperwork and travel need to be planned carefully
Our experienced team at Transfur Animals are ready to help you navigate the process clearly so your pet’s relocation to South Africa is handled properly without unnecessary delays.
What We Do for Pet Relocation to South Africa
Transfur will handle the parts of the move that need extra care and attention to ensure that exporting your cats and dogs to South Africa runs smoothly. Here’s how we can help:
Import permits
We apply for your pet’s import permit and check that everything is in place before booking flights. Without this permit, your four-legged family member won’t be able to enter South Africa, so it’s an essential first step.
Vaccination planning
We work with your vet to ensure vaccinations, including rabies, are done in the correct order and at the right time, avoiding any travel delays.
DEFRA export health certificate
We apply for the DEFRA export health certificate and ensure it matches South Africa’s current entry requirements.
Pet travel container
An IATA-compliant travel container is supplied and delivered to your home in plenty of time so your pet can get comfortable with it before their flight.
UK customs clearance
We arrange UK export clearance in advance, so there are no airport hold-ups or unexpected paperwork issues.
Flight booking
Flights are booked with trusted airlines that meet South Africa’s animal import requirements. We’ll advise on the best routing and timing for your pet.
Home-to-airport transport
If you’d like us to, we can arrange transport to the UK airport, so you’re not trying to manage it all yourself on departure day.
Boarding before departure
If there’s a gap between final vet checks and flight day, we can arrange safe, comfortable boarding for your pet.
Customs clearance in South Africa
We arrange customs clearance before your pet arrives so they can be released without unnecessary delays.
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Experience & Reputation
+10,000 pets transfered worldwide
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Travel Crate & Pet Safety
Ensure pet's comfort & well-being
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Global Compliance
Expert handling of all paperwork
What Happens When You Book With Us
Our pet travel experts will help you plan everything out clearly, so you always know what to expect at all times. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: First chat
We’ll take a few details about your pet, such as breed, size etc. We will also discuss your moving dates and destination and explain how the process works. You’ll get a timeline of what needs to happen when, including permits, health checks, flights and clearance on arrival.
Step 2: Planning and paperwork
We’ll apply for your pet’s import permit, arrange the DEFRA export health certificate and coordinate with your vet to secure vaccinations and health checks in good time.
Step 3: Getting ready to travel
Your pet’s travel container will be delivered to your home well ahead of their flight. We’ll confirm all final flight details, manage UK customs clearance and arrange any transport or boarding you need before departure.
Step 4: Travel day and arrival
On travel day, we can organise home-to-airport transport if needed. Once your pet arrives in South Africa, we’ll handle customs clearance and arrange delivery to your new home or boarding, if there’s a significant time gap before you can collect them. Then it’s paws on the ground and time to settle in.
Frequently Ask Questions
How much does it cost to move a dog to South Africa?
The cost of moving a dog to South Africa depends on several factors, including your dog’s size, travel needs and final destination. Typical costs cover flights, import permits, veterinary checks, an IATA-compliant travel container and customs clearance. Please contact our team for a personalised quote.
How much does it cost to move a cat to South Africa?
Costs for moving a cat to South Africa can vary depending on your cat’s size, travel arrangements and destination within the country. Typically, your quote will cover flights, import permits, veterinary checks, an IATA-compliant travel container and customs clearance. Get in touch with our team for a detailed quote based on your specific plans.
Do pets need an import permit to enter South Africa?
Yes. All pets require an approved import permit before travelling to South Africa. Without this permit, your pet will not be allowed entry.