At Meyer Hatchery, we know that every penny counts, and we work hard to keep costs fair and transparent for our customers. Unfortunately, recent changes by USPS have forced us to adjust our shipping rates for day-old chicks, hatching eggs, juvenile birds, and more. We want to be upfront about why this is happening and how you can still get the best value for your order(s). See our shipping surcharge press release, here.

What’s Changing?

Recently, USPS has implemented a per-box surcharge for all shipments of perishables. This affects our shipments of chicks, poults, hatching eggs, and other live poultry. This surcharge is on top of existing postage fees and is an additional cost we simply cannot absorb. To account for this change, we’ve increased our shipping prices by $15 across all order sizes. If you make changes, additions or removals, to a current order the additional $15 shipping charge will also be added.

While this adjustment ensures we can continue delivering happy, healthy chicks to your doorstep, we understand it’s a significant change, particularly for smaller orders of fewer than 15 chicks.

Why This Change Was Necessary

Live chick shipping is a specialized process that requires priority handling. USPS remains the only carrier equipped to deliver day-old chicks safely and promptly to all parts of the country. This surcharge is a mandatory fee imposed by USPS, which is why it’s reflected in our shipping rates.

We’re committed to providing you with the same quality of chicks and shipping you’ve relied on for almost 40 years, but this unavoidable fee ensures your chicks continue to receive the attention they need during transit.

How to Minimize Your Shipping Costs

We know that no one likes price hikes, including us. Here are some tips to make your shipping costs go further:

1. 1. Order 15 or More Chicks
      If you can, order at least 15 chicks. Our shipping rates for orders between 15-99 chicks remain in the sweet spot, offering the best value for your shipping dollars. (Check our Shipping Info page for specific pricing by species.)
   2. Plan Ahead and Combine Orders
      If you’re considering multiple orders, try to consolidate them into a single hatch date. This not only reduces shipping fees but also ensures you receive all your birds at once.
   3. Shop Sales and Assortments
      Take advantage of discounts and great deals on assortments, including our Overhatch Assortment. Sign up for Back-in-Stock Notifications to be notified on hatch day when we have extra chicks.
   4. Share an Order With Friends or Neighbors
      Team up with someone nearby who also needs chicks! Splitting an order lets you share the shipping cost and meet the minimum quantity for lower rates.
   5. Pick Up Your Order at the Hatchery
      If you’re local or within driving distance, consider making a road trip to the hatchery to pick up your order. This option eliminates shipping costs entirely and gives you the opportunity to visit Meyer Hatchery in person.

We Value Your Business

We know you work hard for every dollar and we deeply appreciate your trust in Meyer Hatchery for your poultry needs. We’re committed to providing quality service and supporting your goals, whether you’re starting a backyard flock, raising show birds, or growing a sustainable homestead.

Thank you for your understanding as we navigate these changes. We’re here to help with any questions or concerns – don’t hesitate to reach out to our customer service team.

If you have more questions or want to share your concerns about this surcharge, we encourage you to reach out to your state senator or representative in Washington, DC. Find your senator or representative and their contact information, here.