I called this UPS Store location before a cross-country move to confirm whether I could drop off a…read moreprepaid overnight shipment containing my live leopard gecko. The shipment was properly packaged, had a UPS label, and was authorized through a reptile shipping service that specializes in legal live animal shipments.
Unfortunately, the employee I spoke with immediately told me they would not accept the shipment. The conversation was very brief, and there didn't seem to be any effort to verify the shipping requirements or policies before giving me that answer.
Because both Salinas UPS Store locations told me they would not accept the package, I had to make last-minute alternative arrangements through the reptile shipping company. Thankfully, they were able to help, and my gecko ultimately arrived safely and healthy in Pennsylvania.
I understand that live animal shipments are not common, but I would encourage staff to become more familiar with UPS-approved shipping services and policies so customers can receive accurate information.
This is from the UPS website
Accepted and Prohibited Live Animals
This is a comprehensive list of live animals accepted for transportation. Shippers are prohibited from shipping any animal not listed here, and all other live animals will not be accepted for transportation. The following live animals are accepted for transportation unless poisonous, venomous, and/or a Threatened or Endangered Species.
Amphibians (All): Examples: frogs, salamanders, toads
Cephalopod (All): Examples: squid, octopus, nautilus
Crustaceans (All): Examples: crabs, crawfish, lobsters, shrimp
Fish (All)
Insects (Limited to beneficial insects only): Examples: bees, butterflies, crickets, lady bugs
Mollusks (All): Examples: clams, mussels, snails
Reptiles (Limited to the following):
Lizards: Examples: chameleons, geckos, iguanas, monitors, flying dragons
Turtles: freshwater turtles (except: snapping turtles), land tortoises, sea turtles
Snakes: non-venomous (contract only)
Arachnids: non-venomous spiders, contract only
Worms (All)
https://www.ups.com/us/en/support/shipping-support/shipping-special-care-regulated-items/prohibited-items/plants-and-animals