In-Cabin
Max weight (pet + carrier): 11 lbs
Max carrier dimensions: 40 × 30 × 20 cm
In-cabin fee: Contact airline
Cargo
China Southern Cargo accepts live animals on eligible routes. Pricing varies by route and weight — contact China Southern Cargo. China import requires approval from AQSIQ (General Administration of Customs) — process takes 4–6 months.
Route Restrictions
In-cabin on domestic Chinese routes only for pets ≤5 kg (combined). International routes: cargo only. Hub at Guangzhou Baiyun International (CAN).
Breed Restrictions
- Brachycephalic breeds — restricted from cargo hold and may be restricted in-cabin depending on route
- Only cats and small dogs permitted in-cabin
Paws en route Notes
China Southern is the primary option for southern China routes. In-cabin is limited to domestic China at a very low weight limit (5 kg combined). International pet imports into China require GACC customs clearance — one of the more complex documentation processes globally.
Done-for-You Service
China Southern's breed rules can disqualify your pet at the gate.
Our IPATA-certified team checks your exact breed against China Southern's current restrictions, confirms cargo route eligibility, and handles the booking so nothing falls through.
Get a China Southern relocation quoteIn-Cabin Carriers
China Southern Approved In-Cabin Pet Carriers
To fly in-cabin with China Southern, your carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed 40 × 30 × 20 cm. We stock carriers sized to fit — send us a note and we'll pair you with the right one.
Recommended: Low-Profile Carrier
Airline Approved Soft-Sided Low-Profile Carrier
Sized for China Southern's 20 cm height limit — fits flush under the seat without compression.
- Leak-proof bottom
- Ventilation on 3+ sides
- Soft-sided to compress under seat
Cargo Kennels
China Southern Approved Cargo Crates & Travel Kennels
For pets traveling in the hold, China Southern enforces strict IATA CR-82 regulations. Wire crates and soft-sided bags are prohibited in the cargo hold. We source and size IATA-compliant kennels for your pet — send us a note to get started.
Recommended: IATA-Compliant Hard Kennel
IATA CR-82 Hard-Sided Travel Kennel
- Rigid plastic or fiberglass construction
- Metal nuts and bolts (no plastic snap clips)
- Single-piece, spring-loaded metal door
- Sized for pet to stand, turn, and lie down naturally
Book with this airline?
We verify China Southern's policy before every booking.
Policies change. We call the airline, confirm your breed is cleared, and lock in the pet booking — not just the human seat.
Plan your flightCommon Questions
China Southern pet travel — frequently asked
Does China Southern allow pets in the cabin?
Yes, China Southern allows small pets in-cabin on select routes. The combined pet and carrier weight must not exceed 11 lbs. Always confirm eligibility on your specific route when booking.
Are there breed restrictions on China Southern?
Yes, China Southern restricts certain breeds including Brachycephalic breeds — restricted from cargo hold and may be restricted in-cabin depending on route and Only cats and small dogs permitted in-cabin. Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs and cats are most commonly affected. Contact our team for a breed-specific eligibility check before booking.
Does China Southern have a summer cargo embargo for pets?
No summer cargo embargo is listed for China Southern. Temperature-based restrictions may still apply on specific routes — always verify at the time of booking.
