Winter Shipping Policy

This policy explains how Blackwater Aquatics Canada handles live shipments during cold weather conditions.

Shipping live animals in winter requires stricter controls to ensure safe arrival. By placing an order during winter months, you agree to the conditions below.

Temperature Limits

We only ship when temperatures are within safe ranges:

  • Minimum: 2°C
  • Maximum: 28°C

If temperatures fall below safe limits, orders will be held until a suitable shipping window is available.

Shipping Schedule (Winter)

To reduce risk during transit:

  • Live orders ship on Monday and Wednesday only
  • Orders are packed the same day they ship

Orders placed outside these windows will be held until the next available shipping day.

Winter Packaging

All winter shipments include enhanced protection:

  • Insulated liners
  • Secure packaging
  • Heat packs (used for fish when required)

Scuds are hardy and may not require heat packs.

Winter Shipping Surcharge

During winter months, a temporary surcharge (typically $15) may be applied at checkout.

This covers:

  • Insulated packaging
  • Heat packs
  • Additional materials required for safe delivery

Weather Delays

If weather conditions are unsafe:

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

We will not ship live animals in unsafe conditions unless explicitly approved by the customer.

If you request shipment during unsafe conditions, the order is shipped at your own risk.

Customer Responsibility

During winter, customers must:

  • Be present to receive the package
  • Bring the package indoors immediately
  • Open and inspect contents right away

Leaving a package outside in cold conditions will result in loss of DOA eligibility.

DOA Coverage (Winter Conditions)

All DOA claims must follow our standard policy:

View Live Arrival / DOA Policy

Additional winter rules:

  • No coverage if package is left outside
  • No coverage if delivery is delayed by the customer
  • No coverage if unsafe shipping was approved by the customer

Shipping Times

We aim for 1–2 day delivery on all live orders.

However:

  • Winter weather may cause delays
  • Carrier timelines are not guaranteed

Blackwater Aquatics is not responsible for carrier-related delays.

Final Notes

Our goal is to ensure the safest possible delivery of live animals during winter conditions.

We may delay orders when necessary to protect livestock — even if it extends shipping time.

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