This is what I have done in the past with shipped chicks: I call my Postmaster (they are quite nice around here) a few days beforehand and tell them that I have live chicks coming on a certain date & would they please notify the postal workers of the day they should come so they will be on the "look out" for them when they arrive & call me immediately. I have found that the sooner I get to them, the less chicks I have lost.
I have even called very early in the mornings to ask if they have arrived? They immediately start searching for them & I can get them quickly that way. But, that is just my experience. I have found the USPS very helpful.
Welcome to BYC. Re. chinese feed, I think we need to give our country jobs and support our companies and feed companies. Since China has had pet food issues in the past, I stay clear in addition to these reasons...
Also you can find some wonderful feeds at feed stores and local farm coops.