Imagine this: you’ve landed at your destination after a long flight, but when you arrive at baggage claim, your dog’s crate is nowhere to be found. Or worse—it shows up cracked, dented, and no longer secure. Travel mishaps like this don’t just happen with luggage. For many pet parents, the crate is a vital part of travel safety, and when it’s damaged, it’s more than just an inconvenience.
That’s where crate travel insurance comes in. As part of the Impact Dog Crates team, I’ve worked with hundreds of dog owners navigating road trips, flights, and moves. I want to share what we’ve learned about why this kind of coverage matters, what it includes, and how it works hand-in-hand with a high-quality crate like ours.
Why Crate Travel Insurance Exists
Most people don’t think about insuring their crate—until something goes wrong. Whether you’re checking your crate as cargo on a flight or strapping it into your SUV for a cross-country trip, accidents can happen. Airlines might mishandle it. A crate could fall during turbulence, be exposed to rough weather during transfers, or even go missing during international shipping.
I’ve heard from customers whose crates arrived with bent doors or missing latches after airline transport. Others had their crates stolen from vehicles at rest stops. While our Crash-Tested Stationary Crates and High Anxiety Crates are built to withstand real-world stress, unexpected events can still occur, and travel insurance helps fill that gap.
What’s Covered & What’s Not
Every policy is different, but here are the most common inclusions you’ll find in crate-specific or pet travel insurance:
-
Accidental damage during air, ground, or cargo transit
-
Theft or loss of the crate while in the care of a transport service
-
Weather-related damage (flooding, hail, extreme heat during layovers)
-
Some policies may cover urgent replacement costs
Just as important are the exclusions. Most policies do not cover:
-
Cosmetic damage (scratches or dents that don’t affect function)
-
Wear and tear over time
-
Damage due to improper use (like unsecured crates during transit)
-
Incidents occurring outside of the policy’s coverage period
Always read the fine print so you know what to expect—and when to rely on your crate’s built-in warranty instead.
How to Choose the Right Policy
Not all crate insurance plans are created equal. Here are a few key things we recommend looking for:
-
Coverage Limits: Make sure the max payout matches or exceeds your crate’s value, especially for premium models like our High Anxiety Crate, which is designed for dogs with severe anxiety and costs more than a standard wire crate.
-
Deductible Amount: Some plans have a deductible that could offset the benefits. We recommend finding one with a low to no deductible for high-value gear.
-
Provider Reputation: Choose a company with experience in pet travel insurance or specialized gear protection. Read reviews to ensure they’re responsive and fair in their claims process.
A little upfront research goes a long way in avoiding headaches down the road.
Real-World Tips for Filing a Claim
If you do need to file a claim, here’s what to do:
-
Document damage immediately: Take clear, timestamped photos or videos from all angles.
-
Retain receipts and proof of purchase: You'll need these to validate the value of your crate.
-
Contact your insurer quickly: Most policies require claims to be filed within 7–14 days of the incident.
-
Include shipping documentation or airline reports if applicable.
Staying organized makes the process smoother and improves your chances of full reimbursement.
Impact Crates + Peace of Mind
While travel insurance is an excellent safety net, it’s not your first line of defense. That’s where we come in. Our aluminum crates are engineered to handle the bumps and bruises of travel, from impact-resistant corners to rust-proof finishes and reinforced welds.
On top of that, we back every crate with a lifetime warranty. If structural damage occurs due to manufacturing defects, we’ve got your back. For travel-specific wear, our Warranty & Repair options can help you get back on the road—fast.
Many of our customers opt for both: a tough-as-nails crate plus travel insurance for full-circle protection. It’s a smart move when you’re crossing state lines, flying internationally, or shipping a dog across the country.
Conclusion
Whether you’re flying with a show dog or road-tripping with your best friend, travel peace of mind starts with the right gear—and the right backup plan. Travel insurance offers a layer of security in case the unexpected happens, and a high-quality crate ensures your dog is protected every mile of the way.
Want to learn more about our warranty coverage or shop crates built for serious travel? Explore our crate collection and see why we’re trusted by handlers, trainers, and everyday dog parents alike.
