Last updated: [09/10/2025]

This policy explains recommended shipping standards for live invertebrates listed on BugBreeders.com (“BugBreeders”), and how DOA (Dead on Arrival) claims should be handled between seller and buyer. BugBreeders is a classifieds platform and not a party to transactions.

1) Scope & responsibilities

  • Off-platform transactions: Payments and shipping are arranged directly between seller and buyer.

  • Compliance: Both parties must comply with all applicable laws (wildlife, invasive species, animal welfare, postal/courier rules).

  • Risk disclosure: Sellers must clearly state shipping methods, transit times, DOA coverage (if any), and weather limitations in the listing.

2) Packing standards (minimum)

  • Containers: Rigid, escape-proof, ventilated; appropriate substrate (moist/dry as species requires), no sharp edges.

  • Quantity & life stage: Avoid overcrowding; ship robust instars/life stages only.

  • Thermal protection: Use insulation (foam/liner) and heat/cool packs as needed; prevent direct contact with animals.

  • Moisture & hydration: Provide adequate humidity for the species; avoid soggy/leaking containers.

  • Labelling: “LIVE INVERTEBRATES—HANDLE WITH CARE” where permitted; include orientation (“This side up”) and contact phone for courier.

3) Dispatch timing & carriers

  • Ship early in the week (e.g., Mon–Wed) to avoid weekend delays.

  • Prefer tracked/express services with delivery target ≤ 72 hours.

  • Weather holds: Seller may postpone shipment during extreme temperatures or disruptions. Communicate promptly with buyer.

4) Delivery & acceptance

  • Buyer should collect promptly upon first delivery attempt or pickup.

  • If buyer requests delivery to a pickup point, verify hours and ID requirements.

  • Missed deliveries may void DOA coverage if delay is buyer-caused.

5) DOA (Dead on Arrival) policy

  • Definition: One or more animals arrive dead at first opening immediately after delivery.

  • Evidence required: Clear unboxing video (continuous, unopened parcel to container opening) or timestamped photos within [X hours, e.g., 2–6 h] of delivery.

  • Notification: Buyer must contact seller at [seller contact] with evidence and order details within [X hours].

  • Exclusions:

    • Delays due to incorrect address, missed delivery, or buyer’s failure to collect.

    • Shipments against seller’s weather hold advice.

    • Improper buyer acclimation (e.g., exposing to extreme temps on arrival).

  • Remedies (seller’s policy—choose one or more):

    • Replacement of DOA quantity (buyer may pay new shipping).

    • Partial/full refund of DOA quantity (excluding shipping), via original method.

    • Credit for future purchase.
      State your chosen remedy clearly in each listing.

6) Live arrival conditions (if offered)

If seller offers Live Arrival Guarantee, they must specify:

  • Covered temperature range at origin/destination,

  • Required shipping method (e.g., express/overnight),

  • Whether signature or pickup is required,

  • What evidence and time window apply,

  • The remedy (replacement/refund/credit) and who pays reshipping.

7) Disputes & escalation

  • Parties should try to resolve issues in good faith using the agreed DOA rules.

  • If either party suspects policy abuse or fraud, they may report the listing/user via Report on BugBreeders or use Contact form with evidence (URLs, screenshots, courier proofs).

  • BugBreeders may take platform actions (e.g., remove listings, suspend accounts) but does not arbitrate payments.

8) Updates

We may update this policy; new terms apply from the “Last updated” date.

Contact (policy questions): Contact us