UPS provides service on a limited basis for containers with some types of live animal. The term ‘animal’ as used herein refers to anything living, except plants. While the list of ‘Accepted Live Animals’ provided herein is an exhaustive list of animals that can be offered for transportation in accordance with the conditions listed, the list of ‘Prohibited Live Animals’ is only a partial list of animals provided to clarify specific species that are not accepted for transportation and may not be shipped via UPS. Any animal not specifically listed on the ‘Accepted Live Animals’ list is prohibited by UPS and will not be accepted for transportation. All international live animal shipments require an International Special Commodities contract. Contact your UPS Account Executive for information about shipping International Special Commodities via UPS.

Containers with live animals must be prepared in accordance with the requirements as specifically stated herein. Containers with live animals must provide for the basic humane care and safety of the animal during transportation. Any container with a live animal shall be considered a perishable commodity and will be accepted for transportation solely at the shipper´s risk for any damage or loss arising from the perishable nature of the item. UPS shall not be liable for any special, incidental, or consequential damages.

All shipments of live animals must be clearly marked on opposing sides of the carton in bold block lettering a minimum of 2.5 cm in height stating: LIVE ANIMALS. The term animal may be replaced with the name of the specific live animal contained within.

In the event that a container with a prohibited item is found en route or in the UPS system, that parcel will be stopped at the location or UPS facility of the discovery. UPS reserves the right to dispose of the parcel.

*Hawaii – All live animal shipments to Hawaii are subject to inspection by the State of Hawaii Department of Agriculture upon arrival. Service delays may occur due to this inspection. Live animals may only be shipped to the island of Oahu. Importing Turtles/Tortoises into the State of Hawaii requires a permit prior to importation. Please review the information on this web page for specific requirements. Shipments of live animals to Hawaii may be more restrictive than the limitations listed herein. (Please see the Animal Guidelines page on the State of Hawaii web site for more information.)

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