The Airline Crate Guide: IATA Sizes, Measuring, and Counter Rejections

Measure the pet, not the crate you own

Length: nose to base of tail, plus half the length of the front leg from elbow to ground. Height: floor to the top of the head or ear tips when standing naturally.

Width: across the shoulders, doubled. The pet must stand fully upright, turn around and lie down naturally inside with the door closed.

IATA series at a glance

100 series fits pets to about 15 lb, 200 series to 25 lb, 300 series to 50 lb, 400 series to 90 lb, 500 series to 120 lb, and 700 series above that.

Snub-nosed breeds go one size larger than the chart suggests, because carriers require extra ventilation volume for them.

A 500 or 700 series crate only fits wide-body aircraft, which narrows flight options and dates — worth knowing before you fix a travel day.

Preparing the crate for cargo

Metal bolts on every corner, never plastic clips. Ventilation on all four sides for international travel. Two bowls attached inside the door, accessible from outside.

Live Animal labels on the top and sides, directional arrows, and a feeding and watering schedule taped to the top. Absorbent bedding, no loose blankets, no toys.

Zip-tie the door hinges — not the door itself shut — so handlers can open it in an emergency but it cannot pop open in transit.

Acclimating your pet

Bring the crate home two to three weeks before travel. Feed meals inside it with the door open, then closed, then for short drives.

A pet that already thinks of the crate as its own den travels calmer than any sedative could achieve — and sedation is not permitted for cargo travel.

Frequently asked questions