Pet transport company websites often mention government registrations and regulations. They matter, but they're not always explained. Here's what they mean.
USDA APHIS registration (United States)
In the U.S., the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) is the main federal law covering how certain animals are treated in commerce, including transport. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) administers it.
Businesses that transport regulated animals for hire in commerce are generally required to register with APHIS as carriers or intermediate handlers. Registered carriers are expected to follow AWA transportation standards, which cover:
- Primary enclosures (crates): size, strength, ventilation and cleanliness
- Food and water
- Care during transport
- Temperature
- Handling
APHIS can inspect registered businesses. Registration numbers follow a format that includes a class letter, such as "T" for carriers.
4Paws Movers is a USDA APHIS–registered Class T carrier, registration #21-T-0690. Our certificate is linked in the footer of every page.
CFIA humane transport rules (Canada)
In Canada, the transport of animals is regulated under Part XII of the Health of Animals Regulations, enforced by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The rules were significantly updated in recent years. They cover things like:
- Fitness of animals for transport
- Protection from weather and adequate ventilation
- Preventing overcrowding and injury
- Feed, water and rest
- Training and knowledge of people handling animals
- Records and transfer of care documentation
Read more on the CFIA humane transport pages.
Documentation and records
Both sets of rules emphasize documentation. In Canada, commercial carriers must keep transport records, and the transfer of care between parties must be documented. We explain why that matters in our article on what happens on a transport trip.
How to check a transporter
- Ask for their USDA registration number if they carry pets into or within the U.S., and verify it.
- Ask how they comply with CFIA transport rules.
- Ask for proof of insurance.
- Check their business registration in their province or state.
A company that's evasive about any of these is a red flag. See our article on pet transport scams.
Credentials are a floor, not a ceiling
Registration means a company is known to regulators and has agreed to follow minimum standards. The best companies go further. Ask about their practices, not just their paperwork. Learn more about us or request a quote.
Planning a move with your pet?
4Paws Movers offers dedicated, climate-controlled ground transport across Ontario and cross-border into the U.S., plus airport cargo drop-off. Every fee is published.