Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Ordering & Availability
Q: How do I place an order?
A: Simply browse our products, add items to your cart, and proceed to checkout. For live chicks, select local pickup at Marshall, MI. For hatching eggs, shipping will be calculated at checkout.
Q: When will my chicks be ready?
A: Chick availability depends on our hatch schedule. Check individual product pages for availability dates, or sign up for back-in-stock notifications to be alerted when your desired breed is available.
Q: Can I pre-order chicks for an upcoming hatch?
A: Yes! We offer pre-orders for upcoming hatches. You can reserve your chicks in advance and we'll notify you when they're ready for pickup.
Shipping & Pickup
Q: Do you ship live chicks?
A: No, live chicks are available for local pickup only at our Marshall, Michigan location. This ensures the health and safety of the birds.
Q: Do you ship hatching eggs?
A: Yes! We ship hatching eggs via USPS Priority Mail or UPS. Eggs are carefully packaged with foam shippers and insulation.
Q: What is your hatching egg guarantee?
A: Due to variables beyond our control (shipping, storage, incubation), we cannot guarantee hatch rates. However, if eggs arrive damaged, contact us within 24 hours with photos.
Q: Where is your pickup location?
A: Our pickup location is in Marshall, Michigan. You'll receive detailed pickup instructions and address when your order is ready.
Q: Is pickup free?
A: Yes, local pickup is always free!
Breeds & Care
Q: What breeds do you offer?
A: We specialize in heritage poultry breeds. Check our product pages for current availability. All our birds are NPIP certified and APA registered.
Q: What does NPIP certified mean?
A: NPIP (National Poultry Improvement Plan) certification means our flock is tested and certified free of certain poultry diseases, ensuring you receive healthy birds.
Q: What do I need to prepare before getting chicks?
A: You'll need a brooder setup with a heat lamp, chick starter feed, waterer, and bedding. Chicks need to be kept at 95°F for the first week, reducing by 5°F each week.
Q: How do I care for hatching eggs?
A: Store eggs in a cool place (55-65°F) with the pointed end down. Let them rest for 24 hours after arrival before incubating. Maintain 99.5°F and 50-55% humidity during incubation.
Q: What is the minimum order for chicks?
A: Check individual product listings for minimum order quantities. Some breeds may have minimums to ensure chicks stay warm during brooding.
Returns & Policies
Q: What is your return policy?
A: Due to the nature of live animals and hatching eggs, all sales are final. Please inspect chicks carefully at pickup. See our Return Policy page for full details.
Q: What if my chicks aren't healthy at pickup?
A: We guarantee all chicks are healthy and vigorous at pickup. Please inspect them before leaving. Any concerns must be reported immediately at our Marshall location.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us at beehavenhenshomestead.com and we'll be happy to help!