Shipping & Acclimation

Less Stress. Better Outcomes.

Reef Shield Aquatics

Acclimation Process

Drip acclimation is strictly prohibited and will void all live arrival coverage due to the risk of ammonia toxicity after shipping.

Immediately

Inspection

Inspect your order immediately upon arrival before beginning acclimation. This allows you to assess overall condition and identify any shipping concerns as quickly as possible.

If there are any concerns with your order, contact us promptly with clear photos before proceeding with the rest of the provided acclimation process.

0-20 Minutes

Bag Float

Before opening any bags, dim or turn off your aquarium lights to help reduce stress during introduction. If possible, temporarily disable strong flow or wavemakers near the acclimation area.

Float the sealed bags in your aquarium for approximately 20 minutes to allow the water temperature inside the bag to gradually equalize.

20-30 Minutes

Transfer

Transfer your fish into the aquarium using a net or specimen container. Avoid adding shipping water directly into your tank. Keep aquarium lights dim for the a few hours afterwards.

Temporary hiding or reduced coloration during this period is completely normal. Keep stress low during introduction to help the transition.

30 Minutes+

Monitor

Monitor your additions closely over the coming days as they adjust to their new home. Temporary hiding, reduced activity, or delayed feeding is normal during the introduction period.

The first feeding attempt should occur later or the following morning, once the fish has had time to acclimate and explore the aquarium.

Livestock ships at a salinity of 35ppt (1.026 S.G.). Drip acclimation is strictly prohibited and will void all live arrival coverage.

Shipping Highlights

Overnight Delivery

Insulated Packaging

Live Arrival Guarantee

Hub Pickup Available

Shipping Information

Fully quarantined and ready for your tank upon arrival.

Shipping Method

All livestock is shipped using overnight UPS or FedEx services to minimize transit time and reduce stress during transport.

Shipping Schedule

Orders are shipped Monday through Wednesday for Tuesday through Thursday delivery to prevent weekend delays.

Delivery Timing

Most orders arrive by noon depending on carrier routing and location. Someone must be available to receive the package.

Delivery Options

You may request "Hold-For-Pickup" in your order notes to pickup directly from a local UPS or FedEx facility if desired.

Packaging Standard

Orders are packed using insulated boxes, pure oxygen filled bags, and heat or cold packs based on weather conditions.

Packaging Method

Livestock is individually bagged and tightly packed to reduce movement and stress that commonly occurs during transit.