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How to Handle Shipped Hatching Eggs (Very Important)

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Proper handling after delivery can greatly improve hatch success.

 

1. Let Eggs Rest Before Incubation

Shipped eggs should rest before being placed in the incubator to allow internal structures (especially the air cell) to stabilize after shipment.

Recommended rest time:
12–24 hours minimum (up to 36 hours is acceptable)

 

2. Proper Egg Position During Rest

  • Store eggs with the large end UP (pointed end down)

  • This keeps the air cell positioned correctly

  • Place eggs in an egg carton, tray, or similar holder

  • Store in a cool, stable location (around 60–65°F)

  • Avoid direct sunlight, drafts, or temperature swings

⚠️ Do not refrigerate hatching eggs.

Tips to Maximize Hatch Success

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While hatch rates can never be guaranteed, the following best practices give customers the best possible chance of success:

 

Before Incubation

  • Allow eggs to reach room temperature before placing in incubator

  • Do not wash eggs (this removes the natural bloom)

  • Do not candle immediately upon arrival — wait until day 7–10

  • Handle eggs gently and avoid unnecessary movement

Incubator Setup

  • Pre-run incubator for 24 hours before adding eggs

  • Verify temperature and humidity with a secondary thermometer/hygrometer

  • Typical chicken incubation temperature: 99.5°F

  • Follow manufacturer recommendations for humidity and turning

During Incubation

  • Turn eggs regularly (or ensure auto-turner is functioning)

  • Maintain stable temperature and humidity

  • Avoid opening incubator unnecessarily

  • Stop turning eggs at lockdown (usually day 18 for chickens)

Factors That Can Negatively Affect Hatch Rates

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The following factors can significantly reduce hatch success, even when eggs are fertile:

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Shipping & Handling Factors

  • Rough handling during shipping (jostling, vibration, impact)

  • Temperature extremes (heat or cold exposure in transit)

  • Delays in shipping or extended time in transit

  • Changes in air pressure during transport

  • Eggs being inverted, dropped, or crushed during shipment

Storage Factors (Before Incubation)

  • Eggs stored too long before incubation

  • Improper storage temperature or humidity

  • Eggs stored incorrectly (wrong orientation)

  • Excessive movement or turning before rest period

Incubation Factors

  • Inaccurate incubator temperature

  • Improper humidity levels

  • Poor airflow or ventilation

  • Inconsistent turning schedule

  • Incubator thermometer or hygrometer inaccuracies

  • Opening incubator too frequently

  • Power interruptions during incubation

Equipment & Operator Factors

  • Incubator quality and calibration

  • Dirty or contaminated incubator

  • Failure to sanitize equipment

  • Inexperience or deviation from incubation best practices

Final Note to Customers

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Shipped hatching eggs are always a calculated risk, even from the most reputable breeders. Many customers experience excellent hatch rates, while others may experience reduced results due to factors beyond anyone’s control. Purchasing hatching eggs means accepting this risk.

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GreenHaven Farm is committed to ethical breeding practices, healthy breeding stock, and careful packaging — but nature, shipping, and incubation variables will always play a role.

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