The goose thawed beautifully in the fridge. It cooked in half as much time as expected - but a series of occurrences meant that it was being cooked to eat cold - so that was alright. I do not understand how or why - but not to worry. If I have to find fault: it might be easier for the cook if the giblets were packed separately from the bird. I see that this is more difficult for you, but it would mean that gravy/pate/soup would be independent of the bird. Expect my order next year. Good experience. I don't know how long the goose was in transit. It arrived on the day I expected.js