No matter what the value of the animals being shipped, we utilize one specific type of shipping container. In our opinion, these containers are the absolute best available for transporting our animals. They are constructed of 11/2-inch thick, industrial strength, expanded polystyrene foam.  This foam is molded into an extremely rigid two-piece structure, capable of supporting external crushing forces in excess of 200 lbs. In addition to being extremely strong, these containers have excellent shock-absorbing and cushioning properties, and are highly resistant to the transfer of heat and cold. Because of their size, these containers are more expensive to purchase and to ship than the more commonly seen collapsible sheet stock foam containers. We could purchase smaller, less substantial shipping containers, that would be less expensive to ship.  For the safety and security of our animals, however, we choose not to. Please do not ask us to substitute inferior shipping containers to save you money on shipping costs.  Under no circumstances will we ship in alternate containers.