How far are you from the hatchery?

I had some shipped from Iowa and I live in Oregon. All 27 arrived alive, but 4 died within a few days. It was the hatchery's breeding (Mottled Houdans). I think it is worth the risk, though, to get what you want. If you are worried about shipping, maybe you can get them at a feed and seed near you? They may have chicks or get them in at some point.

 

I got mine from Ideal Poultry in Texas. I live in Pennsylvania. None arrived DOA, and today they are 4 months old!

 

i live in maryland and i ordered from ideal two times. I just recieved 13 blue marans chicks from texas also. their would of been 16 but famous P.O. didn't get chicks here on time and was a day late and i lost all 3 splashes. i did have insurance on them and i am getting my shipping money back and cost per chicks.

 

ok, i think my duckies flew the furthest, oregon to northeast ct! they all arrived fine and will be 4 weeks tomorrow. and i got chicks two weeks ago from iowa, lost two at two days, rest (38)are doing fine. the louder they peep the quicker the p.o. is!! i have heard very bad things about chicks shipped with ups, and that's from ups workers themselves! stick with the p.o.

 

Chicks get shipped quick enough to make little difference.
There are no guarantees however; they could die on the way home from the local farmer's place.

By now the process is well established. Dont worry so much. Get your order in and get things ready. If you live out very far, you'll be better off going to get them at the PO.