Manifested Cargo: Why It’s the Gold Standard in Pet Relocation
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Safe. Regulated. Trackable. Professional.
When families relocate internationally, their pets are more than just belongings—they’re family members. That’s why manifested cargo, when done properly, is considered the safest and most humane method of pet air transport across borders.
Unlike myths circulating online, pets transported by manifested cargo do NOT fly on shelves or with luggage. They travel in pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo holds—the same environment used for valuable cargo, like medical supplies and humanitarian aid.
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), animals transported via cargo lanes are handled with strict safety procedures and standardized regulations worldwide.
What Is Manifested Cargo?
Manifested cargo means your pet is booked as a live animal shipment under an Air Waybill (AWB)—a unique tracking document used by airlines that lists the pet by name, breed, and route. This method ensures that:
- Pets are tracked from departure to arrival.
- Airline cargo staff are aware of the live animal on board.
- Special handling procedures are followed.
- Customs and veterinary inspections are properly documented.
In short: Pet cargo travel ensures accountability, documentation, and safety compliance every step of the way.
Why Manifested Cargo Is Safer Than Excess Baggage
Many airlines no longer allow pets to travel as checked baggage—and for good reason. Pets booked as baggage may:
❌ Be handled by baggage handlers instead of live animal staff
❌ Not receive route or weather protection
❌ Not have customs clearance support
❌ Face delays or misrouting risks
❌ Be handled by baggage handlers instead of live animal staff
❌ Not receive route or weather protection
❌ Not have customs clearance support
❌ Face delays or misrouting risks
Manifested Cargo Advantages:
| Tracking and airway bill | ❌ | ✅ |
| Professional animal handling teams | ❌ | ✅ |
| IATA Live Animal Regulations enforced | ❌ | ✅ |
| Route/weather safety monitoring | ❌ | ✅ |
| Veterinary + customs documentation | ❌ | ✅ |
Based on the data from International Pet and Animal Transportation Association.
Safety, Comfort, and Care
IATA-Compliant Travel Crates
Pets must travel in IATA-approved crates, which ensure:
- Proper ventilation.
- Strong, secure structure.
- Enough space for the pet to stand, turn, and lie down.
- Water and food attachments during transit.
Flight Routing for Pet Welfare
Professional relocation companies like Relopet International:
- Avoid extreme heat or cold routes.
- Choose pet-friendly airlines.
- Minimize layover stress.
- Ensure pets have rest time when needed.
Health & Documentation Support
Manifested cargo allows full veterinary control, including:
- Export health certificates.
- Import permits.
- CFIA endorsements (Canada).
- Vaccination & parasite treatments.
Who Uses Manifested Cargo?
This type of pet transportation is required for:
- International flights
- Moves to Australia
- Moves to New Zealand
- Moves to the United Kingdom
- Pets over cabin size
- Certain breeds
- Countries requiring quarantine
How to Book a Pet in Cargo (International Travel)
Steps:
- Confirm airline pet cargo availability.
- Prepare veterinary documents.
- Book a manifested cargo reservation.
- Get Air Waybill (AWB).
- Comply with import/export rules.
- Drop off at the cargo terminal.
- Customs clearance upon arrival.
Or skip the stress and let Relopet International handle it for you. From paperwork to routing and customs, we manage it all.
Moving internationally from Canada?
Relopet International specializes in manifested cargo pet relocation worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Manifested Cargo Pet Travel
What does it mean when cargo is manifested?
Manifested cargo means your pet is officially listed in the airline cargo system with an Air Waybill (AWB) number for tracking and safe handling.
Is manifested cargo safe?
Yes. When done correctly with IATA regulations, manifested cargo is the safest and most professional method of international pet transport.
We celebrated a significant milestone as the Canadian Choice Award 2025 Winner for exceptional pet transportation services. You can read more about it here: Relopet International celebrates 2025 win.
What does “manifested” mean in shipping?
It means the shipment is documented on the cargo manifest, listing everything loaded onto the aircraft.
👉 Want to learn more about how we can help with your pet’s journey? Request an estimate today.
Who provides the cargo manifest?
The airline issues the cargo manifest, while the shipper or pet relocation agent prepares the Air Waybill.
What’s the difference between excess baggage and manifested cargo for dogs?
Excess baggage is treated like luggage—no tracking and lower safety standards. Manifested cargo includes official tracking, safety compliance, and professional handling.
How do I book a pet in cargo (international)?
You can book directly with an airline cargo office or hire a licensed pet relocation company like Relopet International to manage the process.
Contact Relopet International
For seamless and stress-free pet transportation services, rely on Relopet International. We understand the importance of your pet’s safety and comfort, and our expertise ensures a smooth travel experience for both you and your furry companion. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
Disclaimer:
The information that is provided in this article should not be used as a sole guide for a pet relocation. Relopet International urges you to consult government authorities in the country of origin and destination about the current import/export regulations. Relopet International will not accept any responsibility or liability for the damage resulting from the use of information that is provided in the articles posted on its blog.