British Expats - Shipping a dog

We are planning to move back to the UK from San Francisco area mid-June. That is now up in the air until my husband's visa comes through. We are (hopefully) flying Virgin but they have cancelled their pet transportation program. Anyone have experience using pet shippers? We have a 70 lb 9 year-old golden doodle. I have the custom crate and microchip/vet visits etc. all complete. I'm only waiting on the USDA appointment the day before we fly. Since I have done most of the legwork myself, I would like to get around paying $5k if possible, though safety is my priority.
Positive and/or negative info would be great.
Thanks in advance.