IATA Pet Crates

What is an IATA pet crate?

It’s a travel kennel that meets IATA Live Animals Regulations for safe air transport

An IATA pet crate is a travel kennel that meets the standards set under IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) for transporting live animals by air. In simple words: it’s the crate style airlines expect for safe handling, stacking, and movement through airports.

A correct crate reduces rejection risk at airline check-in and protects your pet

When you use a correct, compliant crate:

• Airline acceptance becomes smoother

• Handling becomes safer during loading and unloading

• Your pet stays more secure and more comfortable
  And yes, it reduces the chances of last-minute “sorry, we can’t take this crate today.”

Why IATA Crate Compliance Matters (Avoid Rejection)

Airlines can refuse pets with wrong crate size or setup

Airlines can reject if:

• The crate is too small (pet can’t stand or turn)

• The door/locks don’t meet rules

• Ventilation is blocked

• Wheels are attached or loose
  So compliance is not optional, it’s required.

Correct ventilation and locks keep pets safe during handling

Airport staff move crates through conveyors, trolleys, and ramps. Strong locks, secure doors, and correct airflow protect your pet during all that movement.

Labels and documentation help faster airport processing

Proper labels and clear contact details help staff identify:

• Which side is up

• Who to call if needed

• That it’s a live animal shipment
  This can reduce confusion and speed up processing.

IATA Pet Crate Requirements (Core Rules)

Below are the most important IATA pet crate requirements airlines check.

Size and posture rules (stand, turn, lie down comfortably)

Your pet must be able to:

• Stand naturally (no crouching)

• Turn around fully

• Lie down comfortably

Ventilation and airflow requirements

Airlines expect strong ventilation so your pet can breathe easily. Vent openings must be clear (not blocked by stickers, bowls, blankets, or tape).

Secure door and locking mechanism

The door must be strong, close properly, and lock securely. Many airlines prefer or require metal fasteners/bolts depending on crate type and route.

Strong base + leak-proof flooring and bedding

The base should be strong and stable. Add absorbent bedding to control leaks. A leaking crate is a fast way to get rejected.

Food and water bowls (accessible from outside)

Most airlines want bowls that staff can refill from the outside, without opening the crate door.

Correct labels (Live Animal, This Way Up, contact details)

Common labels include:

• “LIVE ANIMAL”

• “THIS WAY UP” arrows

• Shipper/owner name + phone

• Consignee/destination contact details (if applicable)

Core rules table (quick scan):

How to Measure Your Pet for the Right Crate Size

Measuring correctly saves you from rejection and saves your pet from discomfort.

Length measurement (nose to base of tail)

Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail (not the end of tail hair). This gives you the core body length.

Height measurement (top of head / ears)

Measure from the floor to:

• the top of the head (for normal ears), or

• the top of the ears (if ears stand upright)

Width and turning space

Measure shoulder width, then make sure crate width gives enough turning space. A crate that’s too narrow is a common failure point.

Choosing the correct crate size for growing puppies

If your puppy is still growing, don’t guess. Choose based on expected adult size (breed pattern) or talk to us for sizing help. A “just okay for now” crate can be rejected on travel day if the puppy grew fast (and they do grow fast).

Simple measurement guide table:

Dog Crates vs Cat Crates (What Changes?)

Dog crate sizing, strength, and breed considerations

Dogs often need:

• Stronger crates (especially medium/large dogs)

• Better locking systems

• More careful sizing for tall ears and long legs
  Also, some breeds have special airline restrictions (especially snub-nosed).

Cat crate setup and stress reduction tips

Cats travel better when you:

• Keep the crate quiet and covered lightly (if allowed)

• Use familiar bedding with your scent

• Avoid extra items that can move around
  Cats are sensitive to new smells and sudden sounds, so comfort setup matters.

When double crates are allowed (and when not)

Most airlines prefer one pet per crate. Some airlines allow two small compatible pets (same species, same size range), but rules vary widely. When in doubt, use separate crates—simpler and safer.

Best IATA Pet Crates for International Flights

Hard plastic vs heavy-duty vs aluminium (pros and cons)

You’ll see different crate styles. Each has trade-offs.

Crates for large dogs and giant breeds

Large dogs need:

• Correct “giant” sizing

• Strong doors and locks

• Extra ventilation planning
  We also consider aircraft space availability, because giant crates don’t fit everywhere.

Crates for anxious pets (comfort setup)

For anxious pets, focus on:

• Correct size (not too tight, not too huge)

• Stable bedding

• Calm crate training routine
  A crate won’t fix anxiety alone, but correct setup helps a lot.

Airline-specific preferences (why “approved” still varies)

Important: “IATA compliant” is a standard, but airlines can still apply additional preferences. One airline may accept a crate that another airline rejects due to:

• door type

• fastener style

• ventilation design

• route-specific rules
  So we always match the crate choice to your booking and airline.

Brachycephalic (Snub-Nosed) Breeds – Crate & Airline Rules

Why snub-nosed breeds have extra restrictions

Brachycephalic breeds (snub-nosed dogs/cats) can have breathing challenges under heat or stress. That’s why airlines often add restrictions or seasonal limits.

Larger crate sizing and ventilation planning

Many airlines prefer:

• a slightly larger crate for better airflow

• stronger ventilation and open space
  We plan crate sizing carefully here (no shortcuts).

Safer routing and seasonal travel considerations

For snub-nosed breeds, we often recommend:

• cooler travel months or cooler flight times

• direct routes when possible

• avoiding hot transit airports
  This reduces risk and improves comfort.

IATA Crate Setup Checklist (Before You Fly)

Door bolts, cable ties, and lock checks

• Ensure door closes properly and locks securely

• Tighten bolts and check all fasteners

• Use cable ties only if the airline allows (some do, some don’t)

Absorbent bedding and leak control

Use absorbent bedding that stays in place. Avoid loose materials that can scatter. Leak control is a big acceptance point.

Water supply for long journeys

Attach a water bowl that staff can refill from outside. For long journeys, ask airline rules about water level at acceptance.

Comfort items (what’s allowed and what isn’t)

Allowed items vary. Some airlines allow a small blanket, others restrict items that could be chewed or create choking risk. Keep it simple.

Photo check: what airline staff look for at acceptance

Before you go to the airport, do a “photo check” for yourself:

• Pet standing inside crate comfortably

• Door locked and secure

• Labels visible

• Bowls attached correctly
  This small step avoids embarrassing rejection.

Pre-flight setup checklist table:

Crate Training Tips (Reduce Travel Stress)

7–14 day training routine

A simple routine works best:

• Day 1–3: crate open, treats inside, no closing door

• Day 4–7: short door-close sessions (1–5 minutes)

• Day 8–14: longer calm time inside, add normal daily routine around it

Feeding in the crate and positive association

Feed meals near the crate, then inside the crate. This builds a positive association: “crate = good things.”

How to reduce barking/panic during confinement

• Don’t force long sessions suddenly

• Reward calm behaviour, ignore noisy drama (within reason)

• Keep the room quiet

• Use short practice trips in the car (if your pet tolerates)

Day-of-travel tips (no last-minute surprises)

• Don’t introduce new foods on travel day

• Keep routines normal

• Give your pet time to toilet before you leave

• Arrive early (rushing makes pets anxious)

Common Reasons Pets Get Rejected Due to Crates

Crate too small or wrong height

If your pet cannot stand naturally, the airline can refuse immediately.

Inadequate ventilation or blocked sides

Blocked vents happen when people tape paperwork over vents or cover the crate too much.

Weak door or non-compliant locks

Doors that bend, snap, or use weak clips are a problem.

Wheels not removed or not secured

Wheels are a classic rejection reason. Remove them unless the airline explicitly allows them.

Missing labels or incorrect paperwork match

Missing contact info or mismatched details (pet name, microchip number) can slow acceptance or cause refusal.

IATA Pet Crate Cost (What You’re Paying For)

Crate size and material impact

Bigger and stronger crates cost more because of:

• materials

• reinforced doors

• heavy-duty fasteners

Custom sizing for large breeds

Some large breeds need extra-large crates or special strength requirements. That can increase cost.

Delivery, assembly, and fitting support

Costs can include:

• delivery to your home

• assembly support

• fitting and measurement guidance

Rental vs purchase (if you offer it)

If you offer rental, it can be cheaper short-term. However, purchase makes sense if you travel often or want to keep the crate for future moves.

Example crate price ranges (illustration, USD):

These are general ranges. Real pricing depends on brand, size, and destination airline expectations.

IATA Crates for Cargo vs Checked Baggage vs Cabin

Which travel method uses IATA crates

• Cargo: Most commonly uses IATA-style crates

• Checked baggage (AVIH): Often uses IATA-style crates, airline dependent

• Cabin: Usually uses soft carriers (not hard IATA crates), and size limits apply

Airline differences in crate acceptance

Even with an IATA-style crate, airlines may require:

• specific crate brands

• metal nuts/bolts

• extra ventilation

• stronger doors for certain breeds

How to match crate choice to your booking

We match crate selection to:

• pet breed and size

• travel method (cargo vs baggage)

• airline acceptance rules

• route climate and season

Our IATA Pet Crate Service (What We Provide)

Crate sizing support using pet measurements

You send measurements (length/height/weight), and we recommend the correct crate size for your pet and route.

Supply and delivery of IATA-compliant crates

We supply IATA-compliant pet crates and can arrange delivery (where available).

Setup support, labels, and documentation checklist

We help with:

• correct bowl placement

• bedding guidance

• label placement

• checklist for acceptance day

Coordination with flight booking and acceptance rules

Crate choice should match your airline and route. We help coordinate so you don’t buy the wrong crate and regret it later.

IATA Pet Crates FAQs (AEO Q&A)

What is an IATA-approved pet crate?

An IATA-approved pet crate is a travel kennel that meets IATA Live Animals Regulations standards for safe air transport—correct size, ventilation, strength, locks, and setup.

How do I choose the correct crate size for my dog?

Measure nose-to-tail base length, floor-to-head/ears height, shoulder width, and confirm your dog can stand and turn comfortably. When unsure, choose based on comfort and airline rules (we can guide).

Can two pets travel in one crate?

Usually airlines prefer one pet per crate. Some may allow two small compatible pets, but rules vary widely by airline and route.

Are soft crates allowed for international flights?

Soft carriers are usually for in-cabin travel only, and only for small pets. For cargo and many international routes, airlines require hard IATA-style crates.

What labels are required on an IATA pet crate?

Common labels include “LIVE ANIMAL,” “THIS WAY UP” arrows, and clear shipper/owner contact details. Some airlines also require feeding and water instructions.

Why are some crates rejected by airlines?

Common reasons: crate too small, blocked ventilation, weak locks, wheels attached, missing labels, or crate type not accepted by that airline.

Do snub-nosed dogs need special crate sizes?

Often yes. Airlines may require larger crate sizing and better ventilation planning due to breathing risk.

Should I sedate my pet for air travel? (vet advice only)

Many vets do not recommend sedation for air travel. Only follow your vet’s advice for your pet’s specific health condition.

FAQ

What is an IATA-approved pet crate?
A crate that meets IATA Live Animals Regulations standards for safe air transport (size, ventilation, locks, strength, and setup).

What are IATA pet crate requirements?
Correct sizing (stand/turn/lie down), good ventilation, secure door locks, leak-proof base with bedding, refillable bowls, and proper labels.

How do I measure my dog for an airline crate?
Measure length (nose to base of tail), height (floor to top of head/ears), and width (shoulder width) while your dog stands naturally.

Can my cat travel in an IATA crate?
Yes. Cats commonly travel in IATA-style crates for cargo or checked baggage routes when cabin travel isn’t available.

Can two pets share one crate on a flight?
Sometimes for small compatible pets, but many airlines do not allow it. Always check airline rules first.

Why do airlines reject pet crates?
Crate too small, blocked ventilation, weak locks, wheels attached, missing labels, or crate style not accepted.

Are soft-sided crates allowed for international flights?
Usually only for in-cabin travel and very small pets. Cargo routes usually require hard crates.

Do snub-nosed breeds need a different crate?
Often yes—airlines may require larger crates and stricter ventilation due to breathing risk.

What size crate does my dog need for international travel?
One where your dog can stand, turn, and lie down comfortably, with extra head clearance and safe ventilation.

Do pet crates need water bowls for flights?
Yes, many airlines require attached bowls accessible from outside.

What labels are required on a pet crate for air travel?
“LIVE ANIMAL,” “THIS WAY UP” arrows, and clear contact details. Some airlines ask for extra paperwork pouch or feeding notes.

Is a “airline approved” crate always IATA compliant?
Not always. Some products use “airline approved” as marketing. Real compliance depends on sizing, locks, ventilation, and airline acceptance rules.