Shipping Policy

This Shipping Policy explains how Blackwater Aquatics Canada processes, packs, and ships orders throughout Canada.

Please review this policy carefully before placing an order, particularly if purchasing live animals or live food cultures.

We ship every Mondays and Wednesdays when weather and conditions are permitting. 

Shipping Locations

We currently ship within Canada only.

Shipping availability depends on carrier coverage. Some remote or rural areas may experience longer transit times or additional shipping charges.

Shipping Options

We offer multiple shipping options depending on the products in your order.

Express Live Shipping

Recommended for:

• Bettas
• Freshwater shrimp
• Snails
• Daphnia
• Other sensitive livestock

Express shipping is the recommended option for livestock requiring the shortest possible transit time and is eligible for our Live Arrival Guarantee where applicable.

Economy Live Shipping (2–4 Business Days)

Recommended for hardy live food cultures including:

• Live Scuds
• Grindal Worms
• Microworms
• Vinegar Eels

This lower-cost option is intended for species that tolerate longer transit times well.

Important:

• Economy Live Shipping is not recommended for Daphnia or other sensitive livestock.
• No Live Arrival Guarantee is provided when Economy Live Shipping is selected.
• Transit times are estimates and may vary depending on destination and carrier performance.

Shipping Schedule

To minimize transit time and reduce the risk of weekend delays:

• Live orders are generally shipped Monday through Wednesday.
• Orders are packed on the day they are shipped whenever possible.
• Orders received after a shipping cutoff may be held until the next scheduled shipping day.

Order Processing

Orders are typically processed within 1–3 business days.

We never pre-pack live animals or live cultures. Every live order is packed immediately before shipment to maximize health and survival.

Weather & Temperature Policy

The health of our livestock always comes first.

We may postpone shipping if weather conditions are considered unsafe.

When required, we may use:

• Insulated packaging
• Heat packs
• Cold packs

If weather conditions are unsafe, your shipment may be delayed until conditions improve.

If you request shipment despite our recommendation to delay, the order ships at your own risk, and any applicable Live Arrival Guarantee may be void.

Packaging

Every shipment is packed according to the products being shipped and current weather conditions.

Packaging may include:

• Insulated shipping materials
• Secure leak-resistant containers
• Heat packs
• Cold packs
• Moisture-retaining media for live cultures

Hardy live foods such as scuds and grindal worms generally require less temperature control than fish or shrimp.

Winter Shipping

During colder months:

• Shipments may be delayed due to weather.
• Additional insulation or heating materials may be required.
• Seasonal shipping surcharges may apply when additional packaging materials are necessary.

Orders will not be shipped when temperatures are considered unsafe for livestock.

Free Shipping

Free shipping may be offered on qualifying orders (typically $200 CAD or more).

Free shipping:

• Is available only where offered at checkout.
• May not be available for oversized shipments or certain remote locations.
• Uses the shipping method selected by Blackwater Aquatics unless otherwise stated.

Customer Responsibilities

By placing an order, you agree to:

• Provide a complete and accurate shipping address.
• Be available to receive your shipment as soon as possible after delivery.
• Monitor tracking information.
• Bring live shipments indoors promptly upon delivery.

Blackwater Aquatics is not responsible for losses resulting from:

• Incorrect shipping information.
• Missed delivery attempts.
• Packages left unattended.
• Delays caused by the recipient.

Carrier Delays

While we work with trusted Canadian carriers, delivery times cannot be guaranteed.

Blackwater Aquatics is not responsible for delays caused by:

• Weather
• Transportation disruptions
• Mechanical failures
• Peak shipping periods
• Carrier operational issues
• Events beyond our reasonable control

We will gladly assist customers in communicating with the carrier whenever possible.

Delivery Issues

If your shipment arrives damaged or there is a delivery issue:

1. Contact the shipping carrier if appropriate.
2. Contact Blackwater Aquatics as soon as possible with your order number and photographs of the shipment.

We’ll work with you to determine the most appropriate resolution.

Live Arrival Guarantee

Our Live Arrival Guarantee applies only to eligible livestock shipped using Express Live Shipping.

Economy Live Shipping is offered as a lower-cost option for hardy live food cultures and does not include a Live Arrival Guarantee.

Customers purchasing Daphnia or other sensitive livestock should always select Express Live Shipping.

For complete eligibility requirements, claim procedures, exclusions, and guarantee details, please see our Live Arrival Guarantee Policy.

Questions?

If you have any questions regarding shipping or would like advice on the best shipping option for your order, please contact us before placing your order.

Email: info@blackwateraquatics.ca

Note:

• No DOA coverage is provided for live scuds
• Fish DOA claims must be reported within 2 hours of delivery

Contact Blackwater Aquatics

View all store policies:

Blackwater Aquatics Policies