For our clients who can make it to our shop it will always be our pleasure to welcome you in our shop, but we recommend you always let us know before coming so we get ready and make sure the bird you’ll want to see is available for not all birds are kept at our shop, especially the much younger ones.

Shipping birds has been made to be less stressful by following some sensible advice from someone experienced in shipping and adhering to the rules and regulations of the shippers.

What follows is an outline of how to avoid undue stress, accidents, loss, and/or injury to the parrots that you want to ship. This is also a useful guide when buying a parrot that needs to be shipped. You can be sure that Macaw Parrots Shop goes all the way in ensuring that shipping is hitch-free and smooth.

How we prepare our birds before shipping

Shipping birds requires careful preparation to ensure their safety and well-being during transit. Here are the key steps we follow to prepare birds before shipping:

1. Legal Requirements and Documentation

  • Check Regulations: Verify legal requirements for shipping birds, including permits, health certificates, and quarantine laws where required.
  • Obtain Necessary Documentation: Acquire any required health certificates from a licensed veterinarian. Ensure all paperwork is complete and accurate.

2. Health and Safety Preparations

  • Veterinary Checkup: We schedule a checkup with a veterinarian to ensure the birds are healthy and fit for travel.
  • Vaccinations and Treatments: Ensure the birds are up-to-date on vaccinations and have been treated for any parasites if necessary.
  • Hydration and Nutrition: Provide a nutrient-rich diet in the days leading up to the shipment and ensure the birds are well-hydrated.

3. Choosing the Right Shipping Carrier

  • Approved Carrier: Use a shipping carrier approved for transporting live animals, such as those following IATA (International Air Transport Association) guidelines. We have our preferred carrier services we work with often but we do understand some clients have different preferences.
  • Carrier Size and Construction: Choose a sturdy, well-ventilated carrier of appropriate size, allowing the birds to move comfortably. Ensure the carrier is secure and escape-proof.

4. Preparing the Carrier

  • Bedding: Line the carrier with absorbent materials like paper towels or shredded paper to keep the environment clean and dry.
  • Perches: Install perches if suitable for the bird species to allow them to rest comfortably.
  • Food and Water: Attach food and water containers inside the carrier. Use spill-proof designs or provide hydration gel packs to prevent messes.
  • Temperature Control: Ensure the carrier has adequate ventilation and consider using heat packs or insulating materials if shipping in cold weather.

5. Labeling and Identification

  • Labels: Clearly label the carrier with “Live Animals,” “This Side Up,” and other relevant handling instructions.
  • Identification: Include contact information, destination details, and any specific care instructions on the carrier.
  • Tracking: Use a reliable tracking system to monitor the shipment and ensure timely delivery.

6. Shipping Arrangements

  • Choose Direct Routes: Opt for the most direct and shortest routes to minimize travel time and stress on the birds.
  • Schedule Shipments: Plan shipments early in the week to avoid weekend delays and ensure that someone is available to receive the birds promptly at the destination.

7. Day of Shipping

  • Feeding: Feed the birds a light meal a few hours before shipping to avoid travel-related digestive issues.
  • Final Health Check: Perform a final health check to ensure the birds are still fit for travel.
  • Secure the Carrier: Ensure the carrier is securely closed and that all food and water containers are properly attached.

8. Communication

  • Notify the Receiver: Inform the receiver of the shipment details, including estimated arrival time and any specific care instructions upon arrival.
  • Emergency Contacts: Provide emergency contact numbers for both the sender and the receiver in case of any issues during transit.

We follow these steps, and ensure that the birds are transported safely and arrive at their destination in good health.