FedEx Reptile Shipping (Can You Ship, Price, Steps + More)
If you’re a fan of slippery snakes or bouncy frogs, chances are you’ll have a chance to deliver a live reptile at some point.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about shipping reptiles with FedEx, including what types are allowed, how to pack them, and how much it will cost you!
2022 FedEx Reptile Shipping
FedEx allows customers to ship non-venomous reptiles, including snakes, in 2022. To do this, the shipper must first complete the live reptile certification. This process can be expensive and time-consuming, so many choose to ship through a specialist company like Ship Your Reptiles or Reptiles2You. Reptile transport kits range from $22 to $35.
If you still have questions about shipping reptiles, be sure to read all the ways to ship reptiles with FedEx!
Does FedEx ship reptiles?
Unlike carriers like USPS and UPS, FedEx ships a variety of non-venomous reptiles, including snakes.
That said, shipping reptiles via FedEx isn’t as easy as packing an animal and slipping it into the mail. Indeed, you need to obtain a special Live Reptile certification first.
Additionally, to earn this certification, you’ll need to create a FedEx account, build a prototype box for transporting reptiles, pass a series of tests, and complete paperwork.
Also, for most people, getting this certification is a very time-consuming and expensive process.
Therefore, most customers choose to go through specialized reptile shipping companies such as Ship Your Reptiles or Reptiles2You.
In this way, these companies are certified either B2B (business-to-business) or B2C (business-to-consumer) to transport live animals.
How do I package reptiles for shipping with FedEx?
Not surprisingly, packing live animals for transport takes a lot of work. Below, I outline the steps to ensure the reptile arrives safely.
1. Gather your shipping supplies
When shipping reptiles with FedEx, the shipping supplies you need include:
- Appropriately sized insulating box (must be at least 275 lbs corrugated, double layer, weather resistant fiberboard with vents)
- zipper chain
- Deli cups or cloth reptile bags
- Heating pack (may be required for some shipments)
- cold pack
- Packaging material (for example, crumpled newspaper)
- sticker envelope
- “Harmless LIVE REPTILE” label inside the box
2. Prepare the shipping box
Activate the hot pack two hours before shipping and freeze the cold pack overnight.
Then, when preparing these items, insert insulating foam boards into the bottom and sides of the box, if necessary.
Afterwards, use a Phillips screwdriver to make vent holes in ¼-inch holes. Also, make sure to punch two holes on opposite sides.
Also, punch holes from the outside in, making sure to go through the box and insulating foam.
3. Create a Nest with Packing Materials
Roll up the newspaper and place it on the bottom and sides of the box, then place the deli cup or reptile bag securely in the nest.
Afterwards, if your shipment requires a heating pack, stick it under the lid with the red line visible.
4. Prepare deli cups or cloth bags
If using a bag, check it before use to make sure there are no holes or broken seams. For maximum safety, use a zip tie to seal the bag.
If using a cup, check for any cracks or holes. Next, tape completely around the rim, but don’t cover the air holes.
After that, use a permanent marker to mark the species and gender on the cup or bag.
5. Check the animals
Only ship healthy animals of appropriate weight. Ideally, you should avoid shipping reptiles while they are shedding them.
Also, it is best to avoid feeding animals one week before transport to prevent reflux during transport.
6. Put the animal in the container
Move away from the animal room and use the packing material as a buffer to absorb any waste.
7. Put the container in the box
Nest the cup or bag into the nest; it shouldn’t have any room to move in the box.
Then, place the top insulating foam board/lid with the cold pack or hot pack (if desired) facing down.
Next, place your receipts and any other documents on top of the insulating foam cover. Finally, put the “harmless LIVE REPTILE” label on it.
8. Label your package Lacey Act Compliant
Mark the outside of your package with the full list of animals inside, including quantity, common name and scientific name.
Additionally, you should attach the Lacey Act/IATA label.
9. Attach shipping label and ship
Attach the shipping label to the top of the box or put it in a plastic bag.
Afterwards, drop off your package to a FedEx facility (not a FedEx office location) as FedEx office locations generally do not accept live animal shipments.
How much does it cost to ship reptiles with FedEx?
Although live animal shipping requires additional care and expertise, shipping costs will not be higher than other types of packages.
Like other FedEx shipments, live animal shipments are priced based on their weight, size, and travel distance.
Additionally, you can use the FedEx pricing tool to calculate your shipping costs.
In terms of materials, expect to spend $22 to $35 on a reptile transport kit, including foam insulation, zippers, cloth bags, hot and cold packs, and the necessary labels.
Where do I drop off my FedEx Reptile shipment?
As mentioned above, you should drop off your live animal shipment to the FedEx Hub (also known as the FedEx Ship Center on the FedEx website).
Remember, these are the only locations permitted to transport live animals.
Also, to find a ship center near you, go to the Store Locator tool on the FedEx website. Then, filter by Shipping Dangerous Goods.
While reptiles are not “dangerous,” adding this filter will only give you a FedEx facility center.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on FedEx Tire Shipping, FedEx TV Shipping, and FedEx Jewelry Shipping.
in conclusion
Unlike other shipping companies, FedEx can easily ship live reptiles.
Also, while you can get live animal certification yourself, it’s easier to let a professional company do the work for you.
