Introduction
Ordering live turkey poults online has never been easier. Modern hatcheries like AV Birds ship healthy heritage turkeys across the country with survival rates near 100 %. Still, some customers prefer local pickup to minimize stress. This guide compares both options so you can choose the best method for your flock.
1. Understanding How Live Poults Are Shipped
Hatcheries ship newly hatched poults within 24 hours because they absorb the yolk before hatch, giving them 72 hours of nutrition without feed or water. They’re packed in ventilated boxes with soft liners and heat packs in cold weather.
(External link: USPS Policy for Shipping Live Birds)
2. Benefits of Shipping
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Convenience: Order from any state and receive poults at your nearest Post Office.
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Access to rare breeds: Heritage breeds like Bourbon Red and Royal Palm may not be available locally.
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Biosecurity: No exposure to outside birds before arrival.
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Professional packing: Each order includes health checks and safe transit materials.
3. Possible Challenges
While safe, shipping does require careful coordination:
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Weather extremes can affect delivery times.
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Delays in transit can stress poults.
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Buyers must pick up immediately on arrival.
AV Birds tracks shipments and emails buyers with tracking numbers and arrival windows.
4. Preparing for Arrival
Before your poults arrive:
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Set up your brooder (95 °F under lamp).
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Mix electrolytes in water.
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Have feed and clean bedding ready.
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Transport the box home quickly and avoid drafts.
(Internal link: “Turkey Poult Brooder Setup Guide”)
5. Benefits of Local Pickup
If you live near Lancaster, CA or partner locations, you can schedule a local pickup.
Advantages include:
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Zero transit time or shipping stress.
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Personal inspection before purchase.
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Opportunity to ask questions and select your poults.
6. Health and Safety on Arrival
Healthy poults should be alert, chirping, and standing strong. If any appear weak, offer warm electrolyte solution immediately. Mortality within 48 hours is rare (< 2 %) when following brooder guidelines.
7. AV Birds Shipping Policy Highlights
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Priority Express only (1–2 day transit)
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Minimum order quantity to maintain heat (8 poults)
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Live arrival guarantee when picked up within 2 hours of notification
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Replacement or credit for verified loss
(External link: National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP))
8. Environmental Considerations
Shipping is eco-friendly when orders are consolidated and boxes are recyclable. AV Birds uses biodegradable liners and cardboard certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative.
9. Which Option Is Right for You?
| Factor | Shipping | Local Pickup |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | High | Medium |
| Breed Selection | Wide | Limited |
| Handling Stress | Low when done right | Minimal |
| Biosecurity | Excellent | Good |
| Immediate Care | After pickup | Instant |
10. Why Order from AV Birds
Whether you choose shipping or pickup, AV Birds guarantees heritage quality, strong genetics, and professional customer care. Our team monitors every shipment until it reaches your hands safely.
➡ (Internal link: Shop Turkey Poults Online)
Conclusion
Both shipping and local pickup can yield excellent results when done correctly. The key is preparation and trusted sourcing. Order your heritage turkey poults today from AVBirds.com and experience quality from our farm to your brooder.