Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At The Chick Wagon, we only source our chicks and coop-ready pullets directly from trusted, NPIP-certified hatcheries who were established in the early 1900s. These hatcheries are well-known for producing vigorous, high-quality birds with strong genetics and consistent breed quality.

We’ve chosen to partner exclusively with these reputable hatcheries because:

• They maintain healthy breeding flocks
• They offer vaccinations against Marek’s Disease
• They ensure accurate breed identification
• They ship promptly and safely, ensuring chicks arrive in good condition

Q: Why don’t you source from local backyard poultry producers?
A: While local poultry enthusiasts can be passionate about their chicks and flock, they are unable to verify the health of their flock and breed quality we strive for.

To maintain the integrity of the birds we offer and ensure you receive healthy, correctly bred chicks or pullets, we choose to work only with hatcheries that meet strict health, quality, and certification standards.

Q: What is a “Coop-Ready” Pullet?
A: Our coop-ready pullets are:

• Fully feathered (typically 8+ weeks old depending on breed)
• Hardy and well-adjusted to outdoor life
• Raised by hand with daily care and monitoring
• Acclimated to proper feed, waterers, and humane handling

We do the hard work so you don’t have to and that is why they are priced higher, to cover our care and feed costs. By the time you bring our “Coop-Ready” pullets home, they’re healthy, hardy, and ready to start their next chapter in your coop.

Q: What about Chicks?
A: Our baby chicks typically arrive to our farm when they are 2–3 days old. We do not release them to customers immediately upon arrival — instead, we closely monitor their health and development for 5-7 days before your scheduled pick-up date.

This observation period is crucial to give each chick the best possible start and to help ensure you’re taking home a strong, healthy living creature.

Important: Chicks still require a brooder setup at home when you pick them up. This includes:

• A warm, draft-free space with a heat source
• Chick-specific feed and shallow waterers
• Frequent checks to adjust heat and cleanliness
• Ongoing health observation for the next several weeks

Chicks are delicate and require careful attention through the early stages of life. If you’re new to poultry or want to skip the more demanding first few weeks, we recommend choosing coop-ready pullets instead.

Q: How do I place an order for chicks or started pullets?
A: Orders can be placed directly through our website or by contacting us directly by email or telephone at 971-476-6887. Pre-payment is required to reserve your order.

Q: When should I place my order?
A: As early as possible! Our inventory varies between only 5-10 birds per breed and orders fill fast!

Q: Can I add to or change my order after submitting it?
A: We’ll do our best to accommodate changes up until 1-2 weeks before your scheduled pickup. After that, your order is locked in.

Q: Where do I pick up my poultry?
A: You’ll receive an email or text confirming your pickup location, date, and time. We offer these options:

• On-Farm Pickup: off S. Hillockburn Rd, Estacada, OR (exact address shared after ordering)
• Delivery: Free in Downtown Estacada, or for a fee within 20 miles of our Farm. Please refer to our Delivery Service options for more details or to receive a delivery quote.

Q: Do I need to bring anything with me for pickup?
A: It would be helpful if you bring a secure box or carrier with high enough sides to prevent chicks or pullets from escaping. For chicks, cardboard boxes with ventilation holes work well. For older pullets, use a small pet crate or ventilated tote with a secure lid.

Q: What happens if I’m late or miss my pickup?
A: Please contact us immediately. We’ll do our best to reschedule, but unclaimed poultry not picked up within 24 hours of your scheduled time may be forfeited without refund.

Q: Can someone else pick up my birds for me?
A: Yes, just make sure they’re listed on your order notes or email us their name. They’ll need to bring a suitable carrier as well.

Q: Do you Accept Payments or Deposits?
A: No. All orders require full pre-payment to reserve your birds.

Q: What’s your cancellation policy?
A: Please refer to our Refunds, Cancellation & Pick-up Policy page for details.

Q: What if something happens to my chicks after pickup?
A: Once poultry leave our farm, we cannot guarantee their health or survival due to the many variables outside our control (stress, setup, temperature, predators, etc.). Please inspect your birds before leaving. All sales are final once poultry are in your care. Please refer to our Refund, Cancellation & Pick-up Policy for details.

Q: Do you offer delivery?
A: We offer Free delivery to Downtown Estacada. We can deliver within 20 miles of our Farm. Please refer to our Delivery Service options for more details or to receive a delivery quote.

Q: Can you ship my birds?
A: At this time, we do not offer mail-order shipping. All poultry is for local pickup or delivery only.

Q: Do you offer sexed chicks?
A: We offer mostly pullets (females), but occasionally may have cockerels (young roosters) and straight-runs available. Please refer to each listing for specific details. Gender determination for chicks is not guaranteed.

Q: Do you have a minimum order?
A: Minimum orders may apply for certain breeds or pickups — please refer to listings..

Q: Can I come tour your farm or visit before ordering?
A: For the health and safety of our flock and your future chicks, our farm is not open to the public outside of scheduled pickup appointments.

Q: Do you offer hatching eggs or custom hatches?
A: Occasionally. Please sign up for our newsletter The Chick Wagon RoundUp to receive updates when hatching eggs or special orders are available.

We’re happy to help!
📧 Email
📱 Ph: 971-471-6139
📍 Pickup Location: S. Hillockburn Rd, Estacada, Oregon (Exact address shared after order)