If possible, a breeder or a local pet store (not a big chain) is usually going to be a better choice. Chain stores bring in animals to move them out and charge prices that people in the hobby know are obscene and the ones in my area tend to not care so much about the health of the animals. This may not be the case everywhere, of course, but a reputable breeder is going to be the better bet much more often than not.
As for shipping, it doesn't bother the snake much if at all. 3 of mine were shipped to me and they're all happy and healthy. The others I have came from reptile shows or local breeders. If you aren't comfortable with shipping live reptiles, a reptile show is a very good option and a quick google search will tell you when and where the nearest one to you will be.
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