CitizenShipper Reviews

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Edited by: Joanna Broder

About CitizenShipper

CitizenShipper is an online platform that connects pet owners with independent contractors who provide transportation services. Its policies emphasize a commitment to transparency and safety by requiring driver background checks. It also monitors communication channels. Serving clients since 2008, CitizenShipper caters to all 50 states. It stands out with its Booking Assurance Guarantee, a clearly outlined refund policy and $1,000 in pet protection compensation for injuries or death.

Pros
  • $1,000 in pet protection coverage for every transport
  • Booking Assurance Guarantee
  • Vet helpline for illness/injury during transport
  • Drivers must pass an extensive background check
Cons
  • Booking fees added to all transport
  • Several refund policy exclusions

CitizenShipper key services and benefits

CitizenShipper offers comprehensive services designed to provide what the company describes as a safe and reliable transportation option for pets across the United States. It connects pet owners with a network of independent transporters who undergo background checks. Pet owners can upload details about their pets, including photos and specific transport requirements, to receive competitive bids from transporters.

CitizenShipper's Booking Assurance Guarantee covers scenarios such as driver cancellations and failure to respond to calls and messages. Its refund policy also provides security for unforeseen circumstances that result in cancellation.

Key services and benefits:

  • Background-checked transporters: Promotes reliability and safety for your pet
  • Competitive bidding: Pet owners receive multiple quotes to choose the best option
  • Booking assurance guarantee: Protection against driver cancellations and non-responsiveness
  • Refund policy: Clearly outlined refund policy available for review
  • 24/7 FirstVet telehealth: Provides access to a licensed veterinarian or vet nurse by video call should your pet need one during transport
  • $1,000 pet protection: Provides financial compensation for the accidental injury or death of a pet during transport
  • Customizable transport: Accommodates cats, dogs, horses and exotic pets for any U.S.-based transport needs
  • Monitored communication channels: Ensures secure and appropriate interactions between pet owners and transporters
  • Tailored pet care: Owners can provide detailed pet profiles to maximize chance that drivers ensure special care requirements

CitizenShipper requirements

Here are the requirements CitizenShipper has for pet owners to facilitate what it describes as safe and reliable pet transportation:

  • Pet Details: Provide accurate information including species, breed, size/weight, and any special needs.
  • Transport requirements: Specify pickup/delivery locations, preferred dates and any specific handling instructions.
  • Documentation: Submit required paperwork such as health certificates and vaccination records as per local regulations.
  • Communication: Only use CitizenShipper's monitored channels to communicate with transporters regarding transport details.
  • Payment: Arrange payment directly with the transporter. CitizenShipper recommends using only secure methods like Visa or PayPal that allow disputes.
  • Compliance: Adhere to CitizenShipper's terms of service to ensure a smooth transport process.

How much does CitizenShipper cost?

CitizenShipper offers transport for pets through independently contracted drivers who bid on listings created by pet owners. You must provide your pet's breed and weight along with the ideal pickup date, pickup location and delivery location.

Typical pricing ranges from 50 cents to $1.60 per mile traveled. Some drivers charge additional fees based on the payment method (e.g., +3.7% for CashApp, Venmo, credit/debit cards). Some contractors offer flight nanny services (flying alongside your pet in the airplane cabin) as well.

ConsumerAffairs obtained some bids for various pets needing ground transport from Los Angeles to New York. The listings remained active for one hour and each listing received an average of 12 bids. The table below details the various bids:

CitizenShipper tracking

While some drivers offer GPS tracking options, CitizenShipper does not guarantee this service. Instead, it recommends pet owners purchase a GPS tracker to attach to their pet's collar or crate.

CitizenShipper FAQs

How does CitizenShipper work?

To use CitizenShipper, sign up on its website. Then, create a listing by submitting your pet's details and transport requirements. Once listed, you’ll receive bids from drivers through the platform's messaging system. Select the best bid that meets your needs and make arrangements with the driver.

Where is CitizenShipper available?

CitizenShipper operates in all 50 states in the U.S.

Is CitizenShipper legit?

Yes, CitizenShipper is a legitimate platform that emphasizes security through driver background checks, communications monitoring and detailed policies. It allows pet owners to find thoroughly vetted independent pet transporters and provides accessible customer service.

Can you read reviews and chat with drivers before shipping your pet?

Yes, CitizenShipper drivers will message you within the platform to provide bids and answer any questions you may have about their service. Previous customer reviews of drivers are readily accessible through the platform’s messaging section. Just select the “see full profile and reviews” button on the right side of the page.

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CitizenShipper Reviews

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    How do I know I can trust these reviews about CitizenShipper?
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    Page 1 Reviews 0 - 5
    Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaff

    Reviewed April 21, 2026

    I had to bring my cats from Florida to New York quickly. I found Citizen Shipper online and was pleasantly surprised it even existed. I didn't have the money for premium shipping, just "coach", haha. I was paired with a driver who I talked to on the phone a few days before she picked up my cats. She kept in contact with me. She sent me pictures. She treated them well. They arrived safe and sound two days after they left. I am so happy with the service. I know they were treated well because of how they were upon arrival) delivery. I would use this service again, and recommend it to my friends. I would particularly recommend my driver, Yvonne **. She was an obvious animal lover and treated my cats kindly for their first ever road trip.

    Thanks for your vote!
    CitizenShipper
    Response from CitizenShipper

    From Florida to New York in just two days is no small trip, and we’re so glad everything went smoothly for you and your furry family members, Harper! It’s wonderful to hear that Yvonne kept you updated and made sure your cats were comfortable all the way to their delivery location. We’re really glad you found CitizenShipper and got to experience our reliable transport network firsthand!

    Staff

    Reviewed April 8, 2026

    Our pet transportation driver, Steven, was exceptional. His first priority is about the safety and comfort of each pet. He is a natural with connecting with them, playing with them in his stops at the dog parks and keeping us informed with videos and texts. We are delighted with the entire process of Citizenshipper making this transition easy and with confidence!

    Thanks for your vote!
    CitizenShipper
    Response from CitizenShipper

    Darlene, we’re really glad to hear Steven provided such a great experience. Safety and comfort are top priorities for the transporters on CitizenShipper, and it’s great to see that reflected in the care, attention, and updates he shared throughout the trip. We’re also happy the process through CitizenShipper felt smooth and gave you confidence from start to finish. Thank you for trusting us and Steven for your pet's journey!

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      Transparency

      Reviewed April 7, 2026

      My family is so happy with Christina! She provided the best experience possible for my family’s cats. She gave us real time gps tracking, updates every few hours via Tex and pictures. I was astonished at how well my cats adapted to the two day trip. Christina pampered them and made my family feel at ease. Since we are a military family and expect a few cross country “moves”, we will definitely be looking for Christina again in the future. Two 10 lbs Cats from El Paso, TX to Alexandria, VA (1965 mi).

      Thanks for your vote!
      CitizenShipper
      Response from CitizenShipper

      George, we’re so glad Christina was able to make such a long trip from TX to VA feel smooth and comfortable for your furry family members, and that she kept you regularly updated. That kind of care can make a big difference in providing peace of mind, especially for military families on the move. Thank you for trusting CitizenShipper to connect you with reliable, reviewed transporters you can feel confident in. We wish your family all the best with your future moves!

      Staff

      Reviewed March 17, 2026

      I’m a standard poodle show dog breeder but also a full time RN with a second part-time RN job which means time is scarce and I’ve been saved on multiple occasions by CitizenShipper. I have found many great drivers that I have used more than once for both my personal show dogs and for puppies going to new homes and have never regretted it.. However $175 is astronomical to add to a trip for a booking fee and isn’t really fair to the drivers who have to try to make their earnings work with that added on. I would give 5 stars if that wasn’t such an astronomical fee.

      Thanks for your vote!
      CitizenShipper
      Response from CitizenShipper

      Myka, thank you for choosing us! We appreciate you sharing this, especially with your busy schedule. It’s great to hear CitizenShipper has been a reliable option, and that you’ve been able to find drivers you trust and work with repeatedly.

      We understand your concern about the booking fee. It helps support the platform, including maintainance and development, driver vetting, and ongoing customer support. Feedback like yours is helpful as we continue to evaluate our pricing structure.

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      PricePunctuality & SpeedStaffRatesTransparency

      Reviewed March 16, 2026

      I highly recommend citizen shipper! I had a very last minute situation and needed a shipper within three days, and was surprised to receive so many reasonable offers. I had inquired with a few other large transport companies, but none could handle the last minute request and the prices were extremely high. My shipper was great. She had to wait to receive my dog from a customs warehouse, and she picked up food and other necessities so he could have a comfortable ride. She was so patient and understanding through the whole process. She sent updates throughout the whole journey and got my nugget home happy and safe. I couldn't be happier!

      Thanks for your vote!
      CitizenShipper
      Response from CitizenShipper

      Jocelyn, we're glad that CitizenShipper came through for you when time was tight and helped with multiple reasonable offers. We are also happy to hear that the transporter went above and beyond, keept your fur baby comfortable and cared for along the way, arriving safe and happy! We strive to provide a platform where pet owners can connect with reliable, reviewed drivers, and we appreciate you choosing your transporter and CitizenShipper.

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      Customer ServicePriceRatesTransparency

      Reviewed April 25, 2026

      We are more than happy with the delivery of our very small new fur baby from Denver to Cortez CO. Very careful and thoughtful. They sent photos and updates the entire ride. He was held in her lap and fed on the way to our home. On time great communication and perfect prices. He arrived in wonderful condition. We are very pleased with our choice in carrier companies. Thank you.

      Thanks for your vote!
      CitizenShipper
      Response from CitizenShipper

      Alaina, a lap ride all the way home is about as VIP as it gets for a tiny traveler. We’re so glad your new fur baby had such a thoughtful journey, and that the photos and updates kept you connected along the way. At CitizenShipper, we’re proud to be known as a top-rated pet transport network, and we’re so happy to hear that your experience reflected that level of care.

      Verified purchase
      StaffValue

      Reviewed April 23, 2026

      Highly recommend this transport service. Loved the fact that my pet was able to get to Florida from Washington State in 1 day and it was smooth from drop off to delivery. Excellent service at a great value.

      Thanks for your vote!
      CitizenShipper
      Response from CitizenShipper

      Karen, we’re so glad everything went seamlessly from Washington all the way to Florida and that your driver provided a safe travel experience for your pet! We truly appreciate you choosing CitizenShipper and are grateful you trusted us for such a long journey.

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      Punctuality & SpeedStaff

      Reviewed April 17, 2026

      I had to move and could no longer care for my pet... I had a great home for her to go to, but couldn't drive her myself. Kara was a caring fellow pet owner who kept both me and the recipient well informed during transport accommodating simple changes. Prior to pick up she communicated clearly and promptly.

      Thanks for your vote!
      CitizenShipper
      Response from CitizenShipper

      Rhonda, thank you for leaving this wonderful review! We know how much trust it takes to arrange transport during a move like this, and we’re so honored you chose CitizenShipper to help. It’s great to hear that Kara provided such compassionate care and kept everyone informed. We truly believe our community is built on dedicated, real-world transporters like Kara who go the extra mile. All the best to you and your fur baby!

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      StaffTransparency

      Reviewed April 15, 2026

      I wasn’t sure about doing this. I have never known anyone who has. But I took a chance and was very pleased with the service. My driver was Jessica and she took great care of my puppy for the entire ride. Sent updates and Pics. I was reassured he would be fine and he was happy as can be when he arrived into my arms. Was very impressed how it worked with bids. That gave me a choice and it couldn’t have gone better.

      Thanks for your vote!
      CitizenShipper
      Response from CitizenShipper

      Robin, it’s wonderful to hear that Jessica provided such excellent care and kept those updates coming. We also appreciate the kind words about our bidding process; we love giving you the power to choose the perfect fit. Behind every quote is a real, compassionate person ready to go the extra mile for your pup. Thank you for trusting CitizenShipper and Jessica with your puppy’s journey home!

      Profile pic of the author.

      Reviewed April 15, 2026

      Good bidding and transportation services platform for my pet.

      Thanks for your vote!
      CitizenShipper
      Response from CitizenShipper

      Alfredo, thank you for taking the time to leave a review! We're so happy to hear that the bidding process was good and we hope that it helped you find the right fit for your fur baby's transport! We're here to assist you again if you ever need transportation services!

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      CitizenShipper Company Information

      Company Name:
      CitizenShipper
      Address:
      701 Tillery St., Ste. 12-1249
      City:
      Austin
      State/Province:
      TX
      Postal Code:
      78702
      Country:
      United States
      Website:
      citizenshipper.com