How to ship a snake?

[DaveA]

I am purchasing a 5 month old columbian Boa from a person several states away; from Texas to Alabama.

What is the best method of shipping:
1. What carrier?
2. How should the boa be packaged for the safe ride?

Please

[Ranger]

Shipping isn't something that just anyone can/should undertake. There are rules about shippinng live animals and most shippers require pre-certification. Whatever you do, don't use the US Postal service. Some people lie to Fed Ex or UPS, but if something goes wrong you have no recourse and can be in trouble that way too.

If you deal with reputable breeders, they mostly all have the shipping thing down. If this is friend to friend, I'd look for a local dealer who ships and see if he or she would ship for you for a small fee.

[BWSmith]

Go to the shipping forum on Fauna. There is some great info. But here is the quick and dirty:

You can ony ship FedEx as far as I know
You have to be a certified shipper with FedEx
Sturdy insulated box with heat or cool packs depending on the weather
Shipping otherwise is illegal

If he is not a certified shipper, forget the deal unless you want to wait for him to get certified. It took me about a month after getting shipping boxes approved through their package testing center. There are no shortage of boas, buy locally or find a certified shipper. Don't cut corners or it could be trouble for both of you.

[DaveA]

This person is not a certified dealer. So I guess I will take your advice and buy locally.

I understand that there is really good reptile show comming to Birmingham Al. this weekend. This is probably the best way to purchase for me , as I will be able to see the condition of the animal and talk with the breeder personally.

Thank you all very much.