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How to Ship Ball Pythons & Reptiles Safety: A Step-by-Step Guide

Shipping reptiles—especially ball pythons—requires precision, preparation, and a commitment to animal welfare. Whether you’re shipping to a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, proper techniques protect your animals and your reputation.
This guide, built from trusted sources like RedlineShipping.com and Small Town Xotics on YouTube, walks you through the entire process with confidence.

Step 1: Know the Legal Rules & Carrier Policies

  • Use a certified reptile shipping service like Redline Shipping, which partners with FedEx to offer discounted labels, packaging supplies, and safe transit logistics.
  • Ship Monday–Thursday only to avoid weekend delays.
  • Label boxes with â€œLIVE HARMLESS REPTILES” and include the species’ scientific name—this is required in states like Florida and California.
  • Only ship when weather conditions are stable and temperatures fall between 38°F–100°F at all destination points. Redline Shipping guide below:

  Below 38°F: Don’t ship. Wait for warmer weather.
     38-69°F: Use a heat pack per our directions.
     70-91°F: DO NOT use a heat pack.
     92-100°F: Ship to a FedEx Ship Center facility.
     Over 100°F: Don’t ship. Wait for cooler weather

Step 2: Get Your Shipping Supplies

You’ll need:

  • Insulated shipping box with ¾” EPS foam panels. I use 12x9x6
  • Reptile bag or ventilated deli cup
  • Crinkle paper or newspaper for cushion
  • Heat or cold packs (depending on season)
  • Redline Shipping label (printed and ready)

You can order pre-assembled kits directly from RedlineShipping.com.

Step 3: Prepare for Weather & Temperature

  • Check weather forecasts along the route (origin, hubs, destination).
  • Use 72-hour heat packs when shipping below 65°F, and gel cold packs if above 90°F. Ship-Safe Phase Packs are also a useful tool.
  • Tape the heat pack to the side of the box (red line facing out), making sure it never contacts the animal directly.
  • Use Redline’s shipping calculator for safe timing: Redline Quick Quote Tool

Step 4: Prepare the Reptile for Travel

  • Withhold food for at least 48 hours before shipping to prevent regurgitation.
  • Offer hydration the day prior, but remove any water dishes before boxing.
  • Perform a quick health check—only ship healthy animals.

Step 5: Pack the Box

  • Place your snake in a labeled reptile bag or deli cup with ventilation holes.
  • Cushion all sides with crumpled paper or insulation.
  • Insert temperature packs as needed—never touching the animal.
  • Use small air holes in the box for minimal airflow.
  • Seal the box securely with packing tape.

Step 6: Label and Ship

  • Affix the FedEx Priority Overnight label to the top of the box.
  • Write clearly: LIVE HARMLESS REPTILE – Python regius
  • Include buyer’s phone number and choose FedEx Ship Center pickup when possible.
  • Drop off later in the day at your local FedEx hub.

Bonus: Watch How It’s Done

Watch Shane Kelley of Small Town Xotics walk through his shipping process in this helpful YouTube video:
How to Ship Reptiles | Redline Shipping

Final Thoughts

By following these steps and working with trusted platforms like Redline Shipping, you can safely deliver your reptiles with confidence. Whether you’re shipping a single ball python or scaling your reptile business, smart shipping protects your animals and strengthens your brand.
Bookmark this guide and revisit it every time you prep for a shipment.

Shane Kelley

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