Scams evolve — your pet’s safety shouldn’t be a gamble. Pet shipping scams have grown more sophisticated each year, leaving owners unsure who to trust.
Here’s a practical checklist Pawformance uses when families ask, “Is this shipper legit?”
1) Proof They’re Real — Verifying Legit Pet Transporters
Ask for their USDA pet transport license(license name and number).
Check that they have a website and social media trail — not copy-pasted stock text.
Look for detailed reviews with specific stories, not generic praise.
Require a phone call within 24 hours. If they won’t hop on the phone, walk away.
Legit pet transporters always provide a USDA registration and phone contact.
Script to use:
“Before I send a deposit, can we hop on a 5-minute call? Could you text me your USDA registration number and insurance carrier? Thanks!”
2) Pricing That Makes Sense
If a coast-to-coast quote is just a few hundred dollars total, you’re likely dealing with one of two things:
A deposit-grab (they vanish after payment), or
A mass-load transporter stacking 10–20 pets for weeks to make ends meet.
Neither equals a safe, humane trip.
3) Payment Red Flags
Avoid wire transfers, crypto, or gift cards — they’re untraceable.
Zelle/Venmo/CashApp are fine only with a trusted company and a signed agreement.
If you suspect pet transport fraud, report it to the USDA and avoid sending money.
Script to use:
“I prefer a method with purchase protection or a signed service agreement. Can you send your transport agreement with pickup dates, update schedule, and refund terms?”
4) Media Proof on Request
A legitimate transporter gladly shares:
Photos of their current vehicle setup
Short videos of recent passengers
Option to video call for verification
These should show clean kennels, labeled crates, and climate-controlled conditions.
5) Timeline Transparency
Ask for a pickup and delivery window, not an exact magic day.
Real transporters account for traffic, weather, and animal safety first — scammers don’t.
6) No Emotional Manipulation
Scammers rush and guilt you: “Pay now or the puppy loses her spot!”
A reputable transporter prioritizes planning, communication, and animal welfare — never pressure.
7) Your Non-Negotiables (Put in Writing)
Every responsible transporter should agree to:
No-paws-on-ground rule for unvaccinated puppies
Crate size & bedding pre-approved
Update cadence: pictures/videos every 4–6 hours
Valid health certificate (within 10 days)
Policy for illness or cancellations
If they can’t confirm those in writing, keep looking.
Bottom Line
If two or more red flags pop up, it’s time to find another transporter. Pet transport fraud is more common than you think — always verify licenses and contracts. Pawformance is a USDA-licensed, safe pet transport company happy to review quotes before you book.
Pawformance is a verified, safe pet transport company — happy to review a quote before you book.