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Professional Pet Shipping to Japan

International pet relocation planning for Japan, including documentation coordination, travel-kennel guidance, and airline-option research for your itinerary.

Japan’s pet import process has several fixed deadlines. For a pet starting the standard process from the United States, the sequence is an ISO microchip, two valid rabies vaccinations, a rabies antibody test, then at least 180 days from the blood-draw date before arrival. The 40-day AQS notification is a separate deadline within that preparation window.

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$3,500+
Starting Cost
7+
Months to Plan
Expert Service
Japan destination - Professional pet shipping

Japan travel takes at least seven months for new U.S. plans

For pets starting the standard process from the United States, Japan requires at least 180 days from the rabies-antibody blood draw before arrival. That blood draw follows microchipping and two valid rabies vaccinations, so a new plan normally needs at least seven months.

Submit Japan’s Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) notification no less than 40 days before arrival, and confirm the final plan directly with AQS before paying for travel.

Read the official AQS import requirements

Why Choose BestPetTravel for Japan Shipping

Our specialized expertise and country-specific knowledge ensure your pet’s safe journey to Japan.

Complex Requirements Handled

Expert navigation of detailed Asian import requirements and quarantine procedures.

Airline Options Reviewed

Carrier availability and pet-acceptance policies must be confirmed for the specific route, season, crate, and pet.

Personal Care

Dedicated handlers provide personalized attention throughout your pet's journey.

Essential Information

Key details for planning your pet’s journey to Japan.

Timeline
Preparation Time
At least 7 months when starting the standard process from the U.S.
Transit Time
12-20 hours typical
Carrier Availability

Possible carriers; policy and space must be confirmed for the specific trip.

Carrier names are not promised on this page. Ask for the options available for your pet and itinerary in writing.

Entry Inspection & Quarantine
Strict AQS requirements

Import inspection can be completed within 12 hours when every AQS requirement is met; otherwise detention quarantine can last up to 180 days.

Popular Routes
Los Angeles to TokyoSeattle to Tokyo

Import Requirements for Japan

Complete requirements checklist to ensure your pet’s smooth entry into Japan.

Required Documentation

Health Certificate

An export certificate from the exporting country’s government authority must contain the information required by Japan’s Animal Quarantine Service (AQS).

AQS Advance Notification

Required — submit the notification to AQS no less than 40 days before arrival and retain its approval for the trip.

Microchip

Required - ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip must be implanted before rabies vaccination.

Health Requirements

Required Vaccinations

Two valid rabies vaccinations

Rabies Antibody Test

Required — after the second valid rabies vaccination, use a designated laboratory and wait at least 180 days from the blood-draw date before arrival.

Specific Regulations for Japan

Important breed and crate requirements you need to know.

Crate Requirements

IATA compliant crate. Cargo arrival only for most airlines.

Note: We provide custom IATA-compliant crates guaranteed to meet all airline and government standards for Japan.

Important Information for Japan

Essential restrictions and considerations for your pet’s journey.

Travel Restrictions

Dogs may enter only through designated airports or seaports

Your pet must arrive within the validity periods for both its rabies vaccination and rabies antibody test

Note: Our team will guide you through all restrictions and ensure full compliance.

Additional Considerations

For dogs and cats entering from non-designated regions, AQS requires advance notification at least 40 days before arrival. The importer should confirm every requirement directly with AQS before booking travel.

Expert Support: Our specialists stay current with all regulatory changes.

Your Pet’s Journey to Japan

Our proven 5-step process ensures a smooth, stress-free journey for your beloved pet.

1

Initial Consultation & Planning

Contact us for a detailed consultation about your specific requirements, timeline, and Japan regulations. We’ll create a personalized shipping plan.

Timeline: Same day response • Duration: 30-60 minutes
2

Veterinary Preparation

Begin veterinary preparation including health certificates, required vaccinations (Two valid rabies vaccinations), rabies antibody testing, and microchipping.

Timeline: At least 7 months when starting the standard process from the U.S. before travel
3

Documentation & Permits

We handle all government endorsements, import permits, USDA-APHIS certification, and Japan customs documentation requirements.

Processing Time: 7-14 business days • We Handle: All paperwork
4

Travel Arrangements

Confirm carrier availability and pet-acceptance rules for the specific itinerary, arrange travel kennels that meet the carrier’s requirements, and coordinate the agreed pickup and delivery logistics for your pet’s journey.

Flight Time: 12-20 hours typicalIncludes: Door-to-door service
5

Departure & Reunion

Safe transport with real-time updates, assistance with customs clearance in Japan, quarantine facility coordination, and reunion planning.

Updates: Real-time tracking • Support: 24/7 availability

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about pet shipping to Japan.

Have more questions about shipping to Japan?

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Success Stories

Real families we’ve helped relocate their beloved pets worldwide.

BestPetTravel made our military PCS move from Dallas to Bahrain absolutely seamless. They coordinated every detail of shipping our dog, Max, including a flight attendant who personally accompanied him from Dallas to Las Vegas. Max stayed for two nights in Vegas, and the team sent us regular updates and photos that gave us incredible peace of mind during such a stressful time. From there, they handled all the logistics for his international flight to Bahrain with complete professionalism. The entire team treated Max like their own family member, going well beyond what we expected. If you're facing an international pet relocation, especially for a military move, I cannot recommend BestPetTravel highly enough. They made what could have been a nightmare into a smooth, stress-free experience.

Matthew S.

The whole team at BestPetTravel helped us every step of the way in getting our 2 dogs sent safely to our new home in The Netherlands. They walked us through all the requirements and they handled the heavy lifting of paperwork and shifting schedules. The puppies arrived happy and worry free. Their pricing beat the competition and provided a higher service level. Thank you for getting our pups home safely!

Samantha F.

Change is never easy. I decided to move out of the US with my boys Bill & Ted to embark on a new journey in my life. I've never left the country before and had no idea where to start! After reading countless reports, I knew I didn't want my boys in a cargo hold. That's how I found BestPetTravel. The team literally held my hand through the entire process, constantly reassuring me about the care and attention they provide to every animal they transport. They've made thousands of successful trips, but I still cried watching my boys get picked up and drive away. The handler reassured me that Bill and Ted were in certified, professional hands and everything would be fine. I received videos during their journey, and the receiving company sent updates showing two distressed but comfortable and healthy dogs. My boys were delivered safely to our new home. I'm so grateful for the team's kindness and patience. They walked me through every single step and everything worked out beautifully. We are now happily living our new life on the beach! If I could give BestPetTravel a higher recommendation, I would. Bill and Ted thank you too for bringing them safely to be with their mom!

Phyllis L.

I cannot say enough good things about BestPetTravel and the support I received from Edward Jackson. From our very first interaction, it was clear that Edward truly cared about my situation and wanted to understand both me and my dog's needs. His compassion, patience, and professionalism went far beyond what I ever expected from a pet shipping company. This past year has been incredibly stressful, but Edward made me feel like I finally had someone in my corner. He consistently went above and beyond to make sure I felt supported and informed every step of the way. What also stood out to me was the cost. BestPetTravel' pricing was far below any of the competition I spoke with, and unlike others, they actually took the time to call me and discuss my options before sending a quote. Even more importantly, it was clear they were not marking up foreign customs costs to squeeze extra profit, which I saw happening with two other pet shippers. That honesty and transparency means everything when you're already under stress. Because of this, I'll be recommending BestPetTravel to everyone I know who faces the challenges of pet transportation. They've earned my full trust and gratitude, and I couldn't be more thankful for the positive experience they gave me and my dog.

Damian H.

BestPetTravel moved our two dogs from the US to the UK seamlessly. Excellent communication and true pet lovers.

Sarah M.

Professional from start to finish. All paperwork handled and our cat arrived calm and safe.

Miguel R.

Live updates gave us peace of mind throughout the journey. Highly recommend!

Emily C.

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Pet Shipping To And From Japan | BestPetTravel | Best Pet Travel: Domestic and International Pet Transportation