Everything you need to know to start a rewarding pet travel career, become your own boss, and connect with pet parents nationwide on America’s leading animal transit network.
Vetted, compassionate animal handlers
Shipments listed last year. That's 170,000+ chances to win!
Average monthly revenue earned by CitizenShipper drivers.
Miles driven by transporters just like you.
Of industry experience matching drivers with shippers.
Are you passionate about animals? You can spend your workday with dogs, cats, and regulated animals without spending years in vet school. As an animal transporter, you are your own boss, set your own schedule, choose your routes, and get paid to explore the country with companions in tow.
Understand APHIS requirements, zero-cost intermediate handler registration, and compliance.
CitizenShipper matches your cat transportation requirements with the expertise of qualified, vetted transporters.
When transporters send in their shipping quotes, choose the one you like best, then relax. All that's left to do is welcome your kitten at the destination!
When transporters send in their shipping quotes, choose the one you like best, then relax. All that's left to do is welcome your kitten at the destination!
One of the most important qualities of a successful transporter is instilling immediate trust in customers who are entrusting family members into your care. Registering through the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the USDA sets you apart as a qualified professional.
Required for intermediate handlers, transporters, and research facilities. As a transport driver, this is the legal credential you need.
Required for intermediate handlers, transporters, and research facilities. As a transport driver, this is the legal credential you need.
Required for intermediate handlers, transporters, and research facilities. As a transport driver, this is the legal credential you need.
CitizenShipper partners closely with government guidelines and assists you every step of the way with video walkthroughs.
Every animal transporter needs reliable wheels. While most drivers initiate their business utilizing their personal vehicle, your car must meet vital mechanical and environmental standards to ensure passenger comfort and safety.
Summer is peak pet transport season. A dual-zone, fully functional air conditioning and heating system is strictly mandatory.
Scheduled engine, transmission, fluid, and tire inspections minimize breakdown risks with live animals onboard.
Child-proof child locks and sturdy central locking mechanisms prevent restless animals from bumping open doors on highways.
Sufficient interior volume allows crate stabilization, litter box access, leash anchors, and ventilation airflow.
The bigger your vehicle (minivans, full SUVs, transit vans), the more compatible pets you can transport along a single corridor. Top earners maximize per-mile payout by stacking runs and eliminating unpaid empty miles (“deadheading”).
Pro Tip: Win one primary cross-country booking, then add 1–2 local handoffs along the I-10 or I-80 corridor.
Logging thousands of miles per month takes a toll on personal vehicle equity. Many experienced drivers use corporate weekly rental programs with unlimited mileage: sparing personal wear and tear and ensuring top-tier mechanical reliability.
Zero Capital Barrier: You don’t need to purchase an expensive new van to launch your pet transit career.
One of the most important qualities of a successful transporter is instilling immediate trust in customers who are entrusting family members into your care. Registering through the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the USDA sets you apart as a qualified professional.
Summer is peak pet transport season. A dual-zone, fully functional air conditioning and heating system is strictly mandatory.
Summer is peak pet transport season. A dual-zone, fully functional air conditioning and heating system is strictly mandatory.
Summer is peak pet transport season. A dual-zone, fully functional air conditioning and heating system is strictly mandatory.
Summer is peak pet transport season. A dual-zone, fully functional air conditioning and heating system is strictly mandatory.
CitizenShipper partners closely with government guidelines and assists you every step of the way with video walkthroughs.
Safe transit goes far beyond arriving on time. Creating an anxiety-free environment turns anxious pets into calm travelers, generating glowing 5-star reviews that supercharge your referral reputation.
Anxiety is the leading root cause of transport injuries and attempted escapes. Ensure crates are sized so animals can stand, turn, and lie down naturally. If supplying your own crates, factor thorough veterinary-grade disinfectant sanitization between trips into your routine.
Never introduce sudden changes in kibble brands during a move — stomach distress causes severe stress. Instruct owners to provide pre- portioned containers of customary food.
The Feline Water Trick: Cats are exceptionally finicky. If local tap water smells foreign, they will refuse hydration. Always ask owners to supply water jugs filled from their home tap!
Unlike dogs who take joyful rest-stop walks, 99% of cats will not relieve themselves outdoors on a leash. Transporters utilize two validated strategies:
On a mild 70°F day, a parked vehicle interior temperature spikes to 89°F in just 10 minutes and exceeds 104°F in 30 minutes. Canines lack human perspiration mechanics and face fatal heat stroke within minutes. Air conditioning must remain active during any passenger presence.
CRITICAL SAFETY DIRECTIVE
No complicated corporate hurdles. Launch your independent pet transport career on the nation’s most trusted network today.
Create your driver profile, select the “Pets & Animals” category, and configure your preferred service territories.
Complete seamless identity verification and submit your free USDA intermediate handler registration with our guidance.
Explore thousands of live shipping listings, communicate directly with pet parents, and propose customized rates.
Get booked, pick up furry companions, provide exceptional care, and watch your five-star review portfolio flourish.
