How to send live birds by courier?

Shipping goods via couriers and postal services has become an everyday occurrence, that facilitates movement of items and documents between locations. For bird breeders, the ability to ship birds safely and efficiently is a very important issue that allows, among other things, the development of breeding and prosperity through the purchase or sale of birds. What was once a difficult challenge is now becoming more accessible and hassle-free activity, thanks to new technologies and specialized services.

Post Contents [hide]

Many breeders wonder whether shipping birds by courier is possible, and how to send the package, so that the birds reach the buyer safely. In this article, we will try to answer the most frequently asked questions (FAQ) about shipping birds.

Which polish courier should I use to send a parcel with birds?

Shipping birds is now possible thanks to the service offered by the Polish Post Office. Shipments containing live birds are delivered in a postal parcel or Pocztex courier shipment. Only pet birds and ornamental birds are allowed for postal transportation and the rules for safe trade are defined by postal regulations.

How to ship package with birds safely?

The most important thing in shipping birds is to ensure their safety during the journey, which is largely the responsibility of the shipper of the package. Shipments must be prepared in such a way that is not exposing the birds to stress and suffering. Transport conditions mustn't endanger their life and health. It should be ensured that the birds are provided with proper conditions, including possible return.

How does the packaging for shipping birds should look like?

Sending a package with live birds is possible by using specially dedicated packaging for transporting birds, which:

• guarantee the maintenance of vital functions,
• are adequately durable and strong and prevents the birds from destroying or escaping from the package,
• provides birds with the right conditions for the duration of the shipment, as well as their eventual return,
• prevent the contents from slipping outwards,
• have a moisture-absorbing bottom,
• are marked with a sticker containing red text: "LIVE ANIMAL",
• have "top" and "bottom" marks on the box,
• meet the requirements of the protection of animals regulations aobut packaging for the shipment of birds,

Examples of packaging for bird shipping

Packaging for bird shipping must be designed for providing maximum comfort and safety for birds during transport, with proper ventilation. Here are examples of the types of packaging and containers used to transport birds:

• specialized cardboard box for bird shipping with ventilation holes with a tapered design that promotes air circulation. The box with dimensions of 64 x 38 x 22, is capable of holding up to 5 birds and is ideal for shipping ornamental birds, pigeons, pheasants and quails. It can be stacked because of free air flow. Special handles allow easy carrying.
• plastic transport cages, which are adapted for stacking and are ensuring free air flow. They have the door with a locking mechanism that prevents the birds from escaping.

What should be putted for birds in the package for shipping?

When sending birds, we should remember to provide the right conditions for the time of shipment and delivery of the parcel, as well as their eventual return. It is a good idea to include grain and apple to replace water for the time of the trip.

When sending live creatures, you are subject to regulations on the protection of animals.