I've always called the shipper to let them know that the snake arrived fine, or that I've picked it up from FedEx when I've asked to have it held at FedEx for pick-up on days I can't get off work (FedEx is 2 miles from my house).

I can't receive shipments at work, so it's either take the day off, or have held for pick-up at FedEx (which is nice when it's really hot or really cold, because they are in a climate controlled facility all day).