China Launches Pet Shipping Pilot Between Major Cities Starting April 8
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Starting April 8, a pioneering new service allows pets to travel by high-speed rail in China, as the China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. (China Railway) introduces a pilot "Pet Consignment" program on select Beijing-Shanghai high-speed railway trains. The initiative spans 10 train services connecting five major stations: Beijing South, Jinan West, Nanjing South, Shanghai Hongqiao, and Hangzhou East (G119/118, G121/122, G127, G134, G183/184, G195/196).
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The new service, accessible via the 12306 Railway app, allows passengers to pre-book pet consignment at least two days in advance. Eligible pets include domesticated cats and dogs weighing under 15 kilograms and standing no taller than 40 centimeters at the shoulder. Only one pet per passenger is permitted. Pets and their owners depart and arrive on the same train.
Once the reservation is successfully made, passengers must arrive at the departure station's China Railway Express service office (äøéåæ«čæč„äøéØ) at the designated time before their train departs. They are required to bring the pet, their valid identification used to purchase the ticket, and a valid Animal Quarantine Certificate confirming the pet's health. Upon arrival at the destination station, passengers will receive an SMS or phone call notification instructing them where and when to collect their pet.
Each consignment is priced based on distance, currently offered at a 30% promotional discount and includes complimentary basic insurance coverage of up to 2,000 RMB.
On the front page of the Chinese version 12306 app, swipe for more
Choose "Pet Consignment"
Make a reservation
This pilot program is part of China Railway's broader strategy to reform transport services by meeting evolving traveler needs. Following passenger feedback and rigorous market and safety evaluations, the service ensures pets are transported in a controlled, comfortable environment — separate from passenger cabins.
Key features of the pet consignment service include:
Isolation Transport: Specially-designed pet containers are used, featuring air circulation, oxygen regulation, temperature and humidity control, noise reduction, and odor filtration. Containers are secured in a designated high-speed cargo compartment.
Human-Pet Separation: Pets are kept apart from passenger areas, with rail staff strictly avoiding mid-journey container openings to ensure a peaceful environment for all.
Professional Monitoring: Rail personnel monitor pets' conditions via built-in container systems and conduct checks at intervals not exceeding two hours. Pets are provided drinking water as needed, though feeding and visitation are not allowed during transit.
China Railway encourages passengers seeking more information to consult the 12306 app or call customer hotlines 12306 and 95572. During the trial, feedback will be collected to enhance the service for broader future rollout.
Source: äøęµ·ååø
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