IATA Crate Sizing: How to Pick the Right Size for Your Dog or Cat
Getting the crate size right is not a minor detail - it determines whether the airline will accept your pet, whether the journey is humane, and in some cases whether the animal can physically survive the trip in a confined space over many hours.
IATA Regulation CR82 governs the design of live animal containers. Airlines can and do reject crates that do not meet the standard.
How to Measure Your Pet
Take four measurements with your pet standing naturally:
| Measurement | Method |
|---|---|
| A - Length | Tip of nose to base of tail, add 10 cm |
| B - Height | Floor to top of head or ears (whichever is higher), add 10 cm |
| C - Door height | Elbow height x 2 (minimum opening height) |
| D - Width | Shoulder width x 1.5 (minimum internal width) |
The crate’s internal dimensions must meet or exceed A, B, C, and D simultaneously.
IATA Container Size Reference
| IATA Size | Approx. Internal L x W x H | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 46 x 31 x 32 cm | Toy breeds, small cats |
| 200 | 53 x 36 x 39 cm | Small cats, small dogs |
| 300 | 61 x 41 x 45 cm | Medium cats, small dogs |
| 400 | 74 x 50 x 53 cm | Medium dogs, large cats |
| 500 | 83 x 57 x 61 cm | Large dogs |
| 700 | 99 x 67 x 74 cm | Giant breeds |
These are approximate typical dimensions - always check the internal measurements of the specific crate you are buying.
Construction Requirements
An IATA-compliant crate must have:
- Rigid walls (no soft-sided crates for cargo)
- Ventilation on at least 3 sides (typically all 4 for larger sizes)
- Secure locking door
- Spacer feet or a raised floor to allow forklift access and airflow underneath
- External food and water access ports
- “Live Animal” and directional arrows on all sides
- Absorbent bedding
Common Mistakes
Crate too small: The dog cannot stand or turn. The airline will refuse it. Crate too large: The dog is thrown around in turbulence. Size up carefully - the dog should have room to move, but not so much that it can’t brace itself. Soft-sided crate: Not permitted for hold travel. Cabin pet carriers can be soft-sided; cargo crates must be rigid. Missing water bowl: Airlines require a water dish attached to the inside of the crate door.
Buying a Crate
Major IATA-compliant crate suppliers: Vari Kennel (Petmate), Marchioro, Zooplus own-brand, and specialist pet transport suppliers. Buy from a supplier that confirms IATA CR82 compliance. Do not repurpose a storage bin or non-pet container.
Sources: IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) 2024 Edition, Container Requirement 82. Data current as of May 2026.