1st time ordering chicks

[lablover]

So I have ordered 6 chicks from Chickens for Backyards. They ship is a couple of weeks. What should I expect? The site says that the post office will likely call me when the chicks arrive, is this correct? What has been your experience with ordering?

 

[0wen]

The hatchery should post you name and phone number on the outside of the package. If you have competent USPS workers, they give you a call early. I usually get a phone call (as early as 6:30a before, usually around 7:30 or 8) from mine before they 'open' and then it's just a matter of going and pick them up.

 

[Jensownzoo]

It's a good thing to do when your hatchery tells you that your chicks have shipped, go warn your post office that they're on the way. If you have a good relationship with them, then many times they will call you as soon as they arrive (if that's what you want...sometimes it's pretty early in the morning). You can keep an eye on tracking to see where they are, but many times it isn't updated on the website in a timely manner, so be aware. Open the box in front of the clerk to check for losses--some hatcheries require a special form be signed by the witnessing post office employee to process any refunds for DOAs. If you live far from the PO, then bring a heat source and some water (preferably with a smidge of honey added) so you can immediately correct chilling and dehydration if needed.

 

[Folly's place]

I always call or visit my post office the week the chicks are to be shipped, with contact phone numbers, and make sure that they know to call immediately at any time when they arrive. This year it was 7am, and they all arrived in good shape from Cackle. Mary

 

[realsis]

It was my first time ordering too although I've had chickens for awhile now.. I ordered from Meyer hatchery and had a wonderful experience. Make sure when you unpacked them to dip each beak in water so they know where to drink. Scatter some food as well. Do not rely on tracking numbers. Mine shipped and hatched on the 11th from ohio. I live in California. There was one entry in tracking! I was worried sick. THE next afternoon of the 12th I got the call my chick's arrived so don't let tracking confuse you. Thank God my 10 girls were all healthy and warm. They shipped with a heat pack. I hope to see pictures of your new babies soon.