There are tons of ball python breeders who sell very healthy snakes. I have had dealings with NERD (New England Reptiles), 8Ball, and TSK. I would not hesitate to purchase from Ralph Davis, Jasballs, Heather's Herps, West Coast, BHB, Bailey Reptiles, VPI, and tons more.

I would not worry at all about the shipping of a healthy snake from a breeder. I would worry greatly about purchasing a reptile from a box store like Petsmart, Petco, etc.