Topic: Customs & clearance
-
From Home to Abroad: How Our Door-to-Door Pet Relocation Service Works
Categories: TravelA step-by-step walk-through of Airpets’ door-to-door pet relocation service, from the initial quote and UK-wide home collection through pre-flight care at the Heathrow Animal Lounge to customs clearance and home delivery at the destination — covering everything an owner doesn’t want to think about so the pet’s journey runs smoothly.
-
Are there still fees to pay if I self-clear my pet through US customs?
Yes — even with self-clearance there are still landing fees and handling charges payable to the airline and ground handler, typically around £200.
-
How long does US customs clearance take?
Customs clearance for pets entering the USA usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the port of entry, the time of day, and the volume of cargo being processed.
-
Can I handle US customs clearance myself when my pet arrives?
It depends on the port of entry — US airports are designated either as “formal” or “informal” ports, and most airlines specify that at formal ports owners cannot self-clear and must use a registered broker.
-
How do I get an import permit for my pet?
Import permits are issued by the destination country’s agricultural or veterinary authority — for example, the Department of Agriculture for Australia.
-
Does Airpets handle customs clearance for pets arriving in the UK?
Yes — for pets arriving into the UK. Airpets is a registered UK customs agent with badges at Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester, and we instruct trusted partner agents for clearance in other countries.
-
Arriving in the UK with pets by air
Categories: TravelArriving in the UK with a pet by air involves a mandatory Border Control Post check at Heathrow’s Animal Reception Centre — a process that can take 4–8 hours. Here’s how to prepare, what happens on arrival, and how Airpets’ Heathrow Animal Lounge handles customs clearance, collection and onward UK delivery so you can settle…