How to Safely Receive Live Animal Shipments

When purchasing live animals online, they may arrive via shipping. Shipping live animals requires different precautions than regular packages. This article explains what buyers should know about receiving shipments and key checkpoints.

Pre-Arrival Preparation

Set Up the Keeping Environment in Advance

Complete your tank or enclosure setup before the animal arrives. Have water temperature, room temperature, and humidity adjusted so the animal can immediately enter an appropriate environment.

Secure Your Delivery Time

Live shipments are typically arranged for "morning delivery" or specific time slots. Schedule a time you can definitely be home. Redelivery places additional stress on the animal.

Confirm with the Breeder

Confirm shipping date, method, and expected arrival via messaging. If the breeder provides a tracking number, you can pinpoint the arrival timing.

Receiving Checklist

Check the Outer Box

1. Damage — Is the box crushed or punctured?
2. Orientation — Was it transported right-side up as marked?
3. Temperature — Touch the box for abnormal heat or cold

Opening Procedure

1. Open in a quiet location (avoid loud noises and vibrations)
2. Remove insulation and cushioning materials, then extract the animal's container
3. For aquatic animals: check bag water for cloudiness or odor
4. For reptiles: slightly open the container lid to check condition

Animal Condition Check

• Movement — Confirm the animal isn't extremely lethargic
• Coloration — Check for abnormal discoloration or bleaching
• Injuries — Check for shipping-related wounds or defects
• Aquatic animals — Check water clarity and swimming behavior

Post-Arrival Care

For Aquatic Animals

Don't place directly in the tank—always perform acclimation. Use the drip method over 1-2 hours to gradually adjust to tank water. Don't feed on arrival day; let them rest quietly.

For Reptiles

After placing in the enclosure, don't handle them that day. Provide a dark, secure environment and wait 24 hours without feeding for them to adjust.

If Problems Occur

If the animal arrives dead or with obvious issues, take the following steps immediately:

1. Take photos — Document the condition upon arrival (before and after opening)
2. Contact the breeder — Report promptly via Bri-Choku's messaging feature
3. Don't press the arrival confirmation button — Keep arrival confirmation on hold until the issue is resolved

Bri-Choku uses an escrow system, so payment is released to breeders only after arrival confirmation. Contact the platform administration if problems arise.