Shipping eggs, chicks, and adult birds through the United States Postal Service (USPS) requires adherence to specific guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals, as well as compliance with postal regulations. Understanding these requirements and being aware of upcoming fee changes is essential for poultry breeders and enthusiasts planning to ship in 2025.
USPS Requirements for Shipping Eggs
Eggs are mailable within the domestic mail system under the following conditions:
- Packaging: Each egg must be individually cushioned and packed to withstand shocks during transit. This typically involves using materials like foam to encase each egg securely.
- Outer Container: The package should be sturdy and clearly labeled to indicate the fragile nature of the contents.
USPS Requirements for Shipping Chicks
USPS permits the mailing of specific live, day-old poultry, including chickens, ducks, emus, geese, guinea birds, partridges, pheasants (only from April through August), quail, and turkeys. The following conditions apply:
- Age: Poultry must be no more than 24 hours old at the time of mailing.
- Packaging: They must be presented in the original, unopened hatchery box from the hatchery of origin, designed to provide adequate ventilation and protection.
- Labeling: The date and hour of hatching should be noted on the box by a representative of the hatchery along with NPIP status.
- Special Handling: Purchasing special handling services is required to ensure the safety of the chicks during transit.
USPS Requirements for Shipping Adult Birds
Shipping adult birds is subject to stricter regulations:
- Species Allowed: USPS allows the mailing of adult chickens, turkeys, guinea fowl, doves, pigeons, pheasants, partridges, and quail.
- Mail Class: Adult birds must be shipped using Priority Mail Express service.
- Packaging: Containers must be biologically secure, adequately ventilated, and designed to remain intact during normal handling. They should confine the birds completely and the outside should be marked with NPIP status paperwork.
- Weight: Each bird must weigh more than 6 ounces.
Upcoming USPS Fee Changes for 2025
Starting January 19, 2025, USPS will introduce new fees for shipping live animals and perishable goods to cover additional handling and transportation costs:
- Priority Mail Express and USPS Ground Advantage: A fee of $7.50 per shipment will be applied for live animals and perishables.
- Priority Mail: An additional fee of $15 per shipment will be applied for live animals and perishables.
Additionally, the Live Animal Transportation Fee of $0.20 per pound applies to Day Old Poultry shipments when using Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail to Zones 5-9.
These fees are in addition to standard postage rates, and they are intended to ensure the safe and efficient transport of live animals and perishable items. Note that the Live Animal and Perishable Handling Fee is nonrefundable once the item enters the USPS network.
For shipping live animals, be aware that USPS-produced packaging, including Flat Rate containers, is not eligible. Refer to Publication 52 for packaging requirements.
Average Shipping Costs
The total cost of shipping eggs, chicks, or adult birds depends on several factors, including package weight, destination, and chosen mail service. As of 2024, average costs are:
- Eggs: Shipping a dozen eggs via Priority Mail typically starts around $30 and Priority Express upwards of $60, depending on distance and packaging weight.
- Chicks: Shipping <25 day-old chicks can cost between $35 to $80, considering the need for special handling and expedited services.
- Adult Birds: Due to the requirement of using Priority Mail Express and the larger, heavier packaging, costs can range from $35 to well over $100, depending on the size, number of birds, and destination.
With the new fees effective in 2025, shippers should anticipate an increase in these average costs. These estimates do not include the live animal handeling fee. Additional these numbers do not reflect of the price of birds or price of a shipping box, which is not always included in the sale price of a bird.
Best Practices for Shipping Poultry
- Timing: Ship at the beginning of the week (Monday or Tuesday) to avoid weekend delays. Avoid holidays at all costs.
- Weather Considerations: Avoid extreme temperatures by scheduling shipments during moderate weather conditions.
- Hydration and Feeding: Ensure birds are well-hydrated and have access to food before shipping, as they will not have access during transit.
- Labeling: Clearly label packages with “Live Animals” and include your contact information and that of the recipient.
How to File a Claim for Damaged Eggs or Deceased Birds
Despite your best efforts to pack and ship poultry and hatching eggs carefully, issues can occur during transit. USPS allows claims to be filed under specific conditions. Here’s how to proceed:
- Document the Damage
- Take clear photos of the damaged eggs, packaging, or deceased birds immediately upon receipt.
- Include pictures of the shipping box, packaging materials, and USPS labels or markings.
- Notify the Seller and USPS Immediately
- Contact the seller or vendor within 24 hours to inform them of the issue.
- Report the damage to USPS promptly, either at your local post office or online through the USPS Claims Portal.
- File an Insurance Claim
- If the shipment was insured, you can file a claim through USPS.
- Initiate the claim online or at your local post office.
- Provide the required documentation, which typically includes:
- Photos of the damage
- Proof of purchase (shipping receipt)
- Any correspondence with the seller or vendor regarding the issue
- Follow Up on the Claim
- USPS claims may take a few weeks to process. Follow up on the status of your claim through the online claims portal or by contacting your local post office.
- Many sellers have their own refund or replacement policies, so also communicate directly with the vendor to explore additional solutions.
By properly documenting damage and promptly filing claims, you can improve your chances of a successful resolution and reimbursement.
Final Thoughts
Adhering to USPS regulations and staying informed about upcoming changes will help ensure the safe and efficient shipping of eggs, chicks, and adult birds. For the most current information, consult the USPS Postal Explorer and the USPS Newsroom. Being proactive with best practices and understanding the claims process can save both shippers and recipients time and frustration when unexpected issues occur.
