Ship · Guide 6 of 17
Moving Pets From Hawaii to the Mainland
The good news: leaving Hawaii with a pet is far easier than arriving. Hawaii's well-known rabies quarantine rules apply to animals coming in, not going out. The harder part is the flight itself — finding space, meeting airline rules and timing travel around heat restrictions.
Last reviewed October 18, 2026 · Editorial standards
Key takeaways
- Hawaii's inbound quarantine doesn't apply to pets leaving for the mainland.
- Airlines set their own rules for cabin, checked and cargo pets — book early.
- Many airlines and states require a recent health certificate from a veterinarian.
- Summer heat embargoes and breed restrictions can block cargo travel for some pets.
Choosing how your pet flies
In the cabin
Small pets in an airline-approved carrier under the seat. Space is limited per flight, so reserve as early as possible.
Checked or cargo
Larger pets fly in a climate-controlled hold. Airlines publish crate size rules and temperature restrictions.
Professional pet shippers
For large dogs, snub-nosed breeds or complex schedules, a pet shipper can handle bookings, crates and paperwork for a fee.
Health certificates and vet visit
Book a vet visit within the window your airline and destination require — often around ten days before travel. Ask for vaccination records, a health certificate if needed, and a supply of medications. Microchip your pet and update the registration with your new contact details.
Heat embargoes and breed restrictions
Many airlines restrict cargo travel when temperatures at any point of the trip are too high, and some won't carry brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds in cargo at all. Overnight flights from Hawaii can help, but connections in hot mainland cities can still trigger restrictions.
Destination-state rules
Some states have entry requirements for dogs and cats, such as current rabies vaccination. Check your destination state's agriculture or animal health office.
Pet move checklist
- Choose airline and booking type; reserve the pet spot.
- Buy and acclimate your pet to the travel crate.
- Schedule vet visit and health certificate.
- Confirm heat and breed restrictions for your dates.
- Pack the pet first-week bag and carry records with you.
Frequently asked questions
Do pets have to quarantine when leaving Hawaii?
No. Hawaii's quarantine program applies to animals entering the state. Pets leaving for the mainland follow airline and destination-state rules.
Can my moving company take my pet?
Household goods movers don't transport live animals. Pets travel with you on a flight or with a professional pet shipper.
Sources
Rules, schedules and fees change. Confirm details with the official source before you act.
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