I completely agree with this. I've been very happy with Metzers and I would never buy chickens from a hatchery. I don't think they are the same as the huge chick hatcheries.
To be fair, it states on Metzer's website that they only will refund or replace if the bird dies within the first 24 hours. It's still hard to lose the little guys, though.
"Refunds, Losses, & Insurance
Rarely do we have a problem with losses in a shipment. In addition, we usually provide a few extra birds in case there are losses during shipping. So always count the live birds, not just the dead birds as you may still have the number you ordered if there are only a few losses. However, if you do have more losses in your shipment than extras, please call us immediately so we are aware of the problem. We will cover any losses for the first 24 hours you have the birds so we will ask you to phone back after that 24 hour period. At that point we will do whichever you prefer - refund your money or replace the birds."
http://www.metzerfarms.com/RefundsInsurance.cfm?CustID=697323