Shipping live birds via the United States Postal Service (USPS) can be done, but there are important guidelines and restrictions to follow. The USPS has specific packaging and mailing requirements for shipping live animals like birds to ensure they are transported safely. Understanding these requirements ahead of time is crucial before attempting to ship a bird through the postal service. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know about shipping live birds through the USPS.
Can You Ship Live Birds Through the USPS?
Yes, live birds can be shipped through the USPS under certain conditions. The USPS provides guidelines for shipping live animals like domesticated and wild birds through its Retail Ground, Priority Mail Express, and Priority Mail services. However, there are limitations on the types and quantities of birds that can be shipped.
Only certain Lower 48 contiguous states can receive shipments of live birds via the USPS. Shipments to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and other US territories and possessions are prohibited. And all shipments must adhere to regulations set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
USPS Guidelines for Shipping Birds
Here are the key requirements for shipping live birds through the USPS:
– Only adult birds (at least 3 days old and fully feathered) can be shipped. Recently hatched chicks, ducklings, etc cannot be shipped.
– A maximum of 25 adult birds are allowed per shipment.
– The bird must be hardy and healthy enough to withstand transportation without complications or special care. Sick or injured birds cannot be shipped.
– Certain aggressive bird breeds are prohibited, including birds of prey like owls, hawks, eagles, and falcons.
– Each bird must have sufficient space inside its container and have access to food and water. Containers must prevent escape but allow adequate ventilation.
– All shipments require “Live Bird” markings on the outside of the box. Address labels must clearly state “Live Bird.”
Acquiring USDA Approval to Ship Birds
Before you can ship live birds through the USPS, approval and documentation from the USDA APHIS is required. This involves having both the sender (shipper) and receiver (recipient) fill out APHIS Form 17-13 “Permit to Ship Live Birds” and submit it to the USDA.
The shipment will only be allowed with written USDA authorization using this form. The permit confirms the shipment meets health, safety, and humane treatment standards. It also ensures the recipient is properly equipped to provide care for the birds upon arrival.
When completed, the 17-13 form containing USDA approval must be attached to the outside of the package. Do not ship any birds without the approved permit physically accompanying the shipment.
USDA Permit 17-13 Requirements
The USDA Form 17-13 requires providing:
– Names and addresses of the shipper and recipient
– Description of the birds being shipped (quantity, types, ages, etc)
– Purpose for shipping the birds
– Method of shipment (USPS Retail Ground, Priority Mail Express, etc)
– Scheduled shipment date
– Confirmation the birds appear healthy and free from disease
– Assurance the recipient can provide adequate care and housing
The form must be submitted at least 2 weeks in advance of the shipment date to allow sufficient USDA review and processing time.
USPS-Approved Shipping Containers for Birds
Birds can only be shipped in specific types of USPS-approved containers that properly secure the birds while also allowing for adequate ventilation and access to food and water. Here are the requirements for USPS shipping containers for live birds:
– Must be made from rigid, sturdy material like plastic, metal, wood, and/or corrugated cardboard. Paper boxes are not allowed.
– Walls must be solid to prevent the birds’ escape. Any ventilation openings must be small enough to secure the birds inside. But must still allow enough air circulation.
– Access doors/panels are permitted for food and water, but must securely latch closed.
– No exposed nails, screws, or other hazardous protrusions inside the container that could harm the birds.
– Must be large enough to allow each bird sufficient space to turn around freely and move normally. But not too big that birds can be jostled and injured.
– Interior surfaces must be smooth with no sharp edges. Padding/cushioning recommended.
– Clearly labeled “Live Birds” on the outside of the container.
In addition to the USPS requirements above, always check your state and local laws for any additional packaging regulations when shipping birds.
Providing Food and Water
The shipper must ensure adequate food and water are provided inside the container to sustain the birds throughout the duration of transportation and delivery. Here are some tips and guidelines when providing food and water:
– Use sturdy, attached food and water bowls that will not spill. Do not just throw loose food into the container.
– Provide the appropriate food type birds are accustomed to. Such as birdseed for parrots, canaries, finches, etc. Or insects for mealworms for larks.
– Use water containers with narrow openings to prevent spillage. Small dome lids work well.
– Provide more food and water than required for the expected transit time. Build in extra as delays sometimes occur with live shipments.
– Materials must allow air circulation while preventing leakage or seepage from food and water. Ventilation openings cannot align directly above food and water containers.
– Avoid moisture buildup inside container. Use absorbent bedding under food and water sources if needed.
USPS Shipping Costs and Transit Times
Birds can only be shipped using specific USPS ground and express services with established delivery timeframes and costs:
USPS Retail Ground
– Transit time: 2-8 business days for contiguous 48 states
– Cost: Starts at $25+ based on weight, distance, box dimensions
USPS Priority Mail Express
– Transit time: 1-2 business days
– Cost: Starts at $26+ depending on location, weight, box size
USPS Priority Mail
– Transit time: 1-3 business days
– Cost: Starts at $15+ based on weight, distance, container dimensions
Check USPS.com for exact retail shipping rates based on origin, destination, package size, and weight. Discounts can apply for commercial and nonprofit organization accounts.
Step-By-Step Process to Ship Birds Using USPS
Follow this detailed process when preparing and shipping live birds properly through the USPS:
1. Acquire USDA 17-13 Permit
Obtain advance written approval on USDA Form 17-13 from both the sender and receiver. Allow 2+ weeks for processing.
2. Prepare Shipping Container
Obtain a USPS-approved rigid container that safely secures the birds with proper interior space, ventilation, food, water, and labeling.
3. Secure USDA Permit to Container
Affix the completed USDA 17-13 form with approval to the outside of the box where clearly visible.
4. Deliver to USPS
Bring box with birds to Post Office location during open hours. Retail Ground and Priority Mail only.
5. Pay Postage & Ship
Pay appropriate postage for Retail Ground or Priority Mail based on weight, distance, box size. Then USPS will ship.
6. Confirm Delivery
Use tracking number to confirm on USPS.com when birds have arrived safely at destination.
Key Considerations and Best Practices
Here are some additional tips and important considerations when shipping live birds through the USPS:
– Schedule shipments early in the week – avoid Fridays or before holidays to prevent long weekend delays.
– Ensure recipient will be available upon delivery or make arrangements for animal pickup/boarding. Birds cannot be left unattended.
– Give birds ample space inside container. Do not overcrowd.
– Use proper insulation and cushioning materials if shipping during extreme cold or hot weather.
– Affix “Live Animal” stickers and “This Side Up” arrows on box.
– Clearly write your name, address, and phone number on the box as shipper in case of questions or issues.
– Opt for direct Signature Required delivery to prevent lost or delayed packages.
– Inspect box carefully for damage before shipment and do not ship any leaking or compromised containers.
– Purchase additional insurance in case of accidents or losses.
Are There Alternatives to Shipping Birds by USPS?
Although the USPS provides an option for shipping birds, some people feel uncomfortable entrusting live animals to the postal service. USPS packages are transported to facilities with machinery and sorters that may inadvertently harm a live shipment.
Here are some alternative options for transporting pet birds and aviaries if wanting to avoid USPS risks:
Private Shipping Companies
Look into private shipping companies that specialize in transporting live animals and can provide door-to-door deliver with minimal stops and handling. Companies like FedEx do have live animal programs available.
Personal Delivery
When distance allows, personally driving the birds yourself or hiring a private animal courier/transport service are good options for accompanied travel. This avoids possible mishandling of containers with unattended parcel shipments.
Air Cargo Shipping
For long distances, air cargo transport of birds may be arranged through airlines. This option requires booking cargo space and adhering to airline live animal policies, but provides faster direct air transit.
Purchasing After Arrival
If relocating, consider waiting to purchase new birds until after you’ve moved and settled in your new location. This avoids transport stress and risks to the animals.
Important Legal Restrictions
In addition to USPS regulations, various laws protect birds and other animals from mistreatment during shipping. Key statutes include:
Animal Welfare Act
Sets standards for humane care and treatment of animals during transport. Includes penalties for those violating rules.
Lacey Act
Restricts shipment of birds classified as illegal or inhumane. Prohibits transport of exotic or endangered species.
Migratory Bird Treaty Act
Protects migratory bird species. Restricts capturing, selling, or shipping certain birds like falcons without permit.
Violating these or other state laws on animal cruelty or illegal transportation of exotic birds can result in civil penalties and criminal prosecution.
Conclusion
Shipping live birds through the USPS is permitted but involves important regulations like USDA approval forms, proper containers, and adhering to quantity limits per box. Following all guidelines carefully helps ensure birds remain safe and healthy throughout transit and arrival. For valuable or delicate birds, considering accompanied transport or purchasing from local sources after relocating may be advisable alternatives to avoid risks of shipping through traditional parcel carriers altogether. With proper preparation and compliance with regulations, live birds can successfully be transported to their new homes by US Postal Service.
