Shipping Policy

This Shipping Policy outlines how orders are processed, packed, and shipped by Blackwater Aquatics Canada.

Please read this page carefully before placing an order, especially for live products.

Shipping Locations

We currently ship across Canada.

Shipping availability depends on carrier serviceability in your region. Remote areas may be subject to delays or additional costs.

Shipping Methods

We use major Canadian carriers including:

• Canada Post
• UPS
• Purolator

All live orders are shipped using fast 1–2 day delivery services whenever possible.

• Live fish: 1-day shipping when available
• Live scuds: 1–2 day shipping

Shipping speed depends on your location and carrier availability.

Delivery times are NOT guaranteed.

Shipping Schedule (Live Orders)

To avoid weekend delays and protect livestock:

• We ship live orders on Monday and Wednesday only

Orders are packed on the same day they are shipped to minimize time in transit.

Orders placed after a shipping window will be held until the next shipping day.

Handling Time

Orders are processed based on shipping schedules and conditions.

We do not pre-pack live orders. All livestock and live food are packed the day they ship to ensure maximum health and survival.

Weather & Temperature Policy

We prioritize the safety of all live shipments.

We will only ship when conditions are within safe ranges:

• Minimum temperature: 2°C (with insulation and heat packs if required)
• Maximum temperature: 28°C

If conditions are unsafe:

• Your order will be delayed
• We may contact you to coordinate a safe shipping window

If you request shipment outside safe conditions:

👉 The order is shipped at your own risk.

Packaging

All live orders are packed using:

• Insulated packaging
• Secure containment
• Heat packs (when required for fish during colder seasons)

Scuds are hardy and do not always require heat packs.

Winter Shipping

During colder months:

• Shipping may be delayed more frequently
• Additional insulation and materials are used
• A winter shipping surcharge (approximately $15) may apply

Orders will not ship below safe temperature thresholds.

Free Shipping

We offer free shipping on qualifying orders (typically $120+).

Free shipping:

• Applies to standard service only
• Does NOT apply to certain regions (including Alberta, British Columbia, and remote areas)

Customer Responsibility

By placing an order, you agree to the following:

• You provide a correct and complete shipping address
• You are available to receive the package on delivery
• You understand local weather conditions

Blackwater Aquatics is NOT responsible for:

• Incorrect shipping addresses
• Packages left outside or unattended
• Customer unavailability at time of delivery

Carrier Responsibility

Once your order is shipped:

• Shipping delays are the responsibility of the carrier
• Lost or delayed packages are NOT the responsibility of Blackwater Aquatics

We will assist in contacting the carrier when needed, but we do not assume liability for carrier errors.

Delivery Issues

If there is an issue with your delivery:

• Contact the shipping carrier first
• Then contact us for support if needed

We are willing to help guide resolution but are not financially responsible for carrier-related issues.

Live Arrival (Important)

Live arrival policies vary depending on product type.

👉 Please review our full policy here:

Live Arrival / DOA Policy

Note:

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

Need Help?

If you have any questions about shipping, please contact us before placing your order.

Contact Blackwater Aquatics

View all store policies:

Blackwater Aquatics Policies