A Guide For How We Ship Corals Safely in Winter
Shipping live corals during the winter months presents unique challenges due to the risk of exposure to cold temperatures. However, with careful planning and the right techniques, you can ensure your corals arrive at their destination healthy and stress-free. Below, we explore essential tips and best practices for shipping corals safely during the colder months.
1. Check Weather Conditions
Before shipping, always check the weather forecast for both our location and the recipient's location. Pay special attention to the low temperature forecast, as this is the temperature your package is most likely to be exposed to during transit. Additionally, checking the weather at key UPS hubs in Louisville, Kentucky and Rockford, Illinois is especially vital, as your box could be exposed to the conditions in those areas as well. Snow or other inclement weather at these hubs can result in delayed flights and an additional day in transit. If a severe winter storm is expected, consider delaying the shipment to avoid potential delays and extreme temperature drops. Being aware of weather conditions helps minimize risks and ensures a smoother shipping experience.
2. Use High-Quality Insulated Shipping Boxes
The first step in protecting corals from harsh winter temperatures is using high-quality insulated shipping boxes. At Riptide Aquaculture, we use 1.5-inch foam coolers similar to those used to transport perishable medical supplies. These coolers help maintain a stable internal temperature during transit and provide excellent insulation against cold weather. Make sure the cooler is well-sealed to prevent any cold air from seeping in.
3. Heat Packs Are Essential
One of the most critical components of winter coral shipping is the use of heat packs. These packs generate heat for several hours, ensuring that the inside of the box remains at a safe temperature for your corals.
Choosing the Right Heat Pack:
At Riptide Aquaculture, we use 40-hour heat packs exclusively. These provide the closest average temperature to our target range and maintain warmth for the duration of an overnight delivery. Shorter-duration heat packs, such as 8-hour or 20-hour packs, peak at much higher temperatures, which can risk overheating the corals.
4. Pack Corals Securely
Proper packaging is essential to prevent damage during shipping. Use sturdy bags designed for live aquatic animals and double-bag each coral to prevent leaks. Secure the bags with rubber bands and ensure there is minimal air inside the bags to reduce sloshing during transit.
Place each bag inside the insulated box with cushioning materials, such as packing peanuts or bubble wrap, to prevent movement.
Important: Place a piece of cardboard between the corals and the heat pack. This will prevent the heat pack from coming into direct contact with the coral bags and will act as a heat spreader, distributing warmth more evenly throughout the box.
5. Label Your Package Clearly
Clearly label your package with “Live Coral” and “Fragile” stickers to alert shipping carriers to handle the box with care. Additionally, include instructions such as “Keep Warm” and “Handle With Care.”
Adding a note with unpacking instructions for the recipient can also be helpful, especially if they are receiving corals for the first time.
6. Choose the Right Shipping Service
At Riptide Aquaculture, we use UPS Next Day Air for shipping all live corals to ensure they arrive quickly and safely. Overnight shipping should be the only method selected when shipping corals, as it minimizes the time corals spend in transit and reduces the risk of exposure to extreme temperatures.
Always avoid economy shipping options and only use overnight services, as extended transit times increase the risk of exposure to extreme temperatures, regardless of the season.
7. Communicate with the Recipient
Keeping the recipient informed about the shipping schedule is essential. Let them know when to expect the package and provide them with the tracking number. If the recipient cannot be home when the package is delivered, having a neighbor or family member bring the package inside off the porch will greatly improve the success of the shipment. Ideally, they should float the bags in the tank to maintain the corals at a safe and stable temperature until the recipient arrives.
Alternatively, if nobody will be home to take in the package, the recipient can have it held at a UPS facility. This ensures the package is not left exposed to harsh elements. The recipient can use the tracking options once the package begins tracking to request it be held for pickup at a nearby facility. This option greatly reduces the risk of temperature-related issues.
This simple planning step can make a significant difference in the health and success of the corals during winter shipments.
8. Acclimate Corals Upon Arrival
Upon arrival, it is essential for the recipient to acclimate the corals properly to avoid shocking them. Winter shipments can cause slight temperature fluctuations, so a gradual acclimation process is key to ensuring the health and longevity of the corals.
Recommended Acclimation Steps:
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Float the sealed bags in the aquarium for at least 30 minutes to equalize temperatures. If the bags feel cold to the touch, continue floating them until they reach the tank’s temperature.
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Gradually introduce small amounts of tank water into the bags over the next 30-60 minutes.
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Gently remove the corals from the bags and place them in the tank.
Note: We do not recommend drip acclimation until floating has taken place to bring the corals to a safe and stable temperature. This ensures the corals adjust to the water temperature before further acclimation steps are taken.)
Final Thoughts
Shipping corals in the winter can be challenging, but with the right preparation, you can minimize risks and ensure your corals arrive healthy. By using insulated boxes, heat packs, and reliable shipping services, you can protect your valuable livestock from cold weather and provide a positive experience for your customers.
At Riptide Aquaculture, we prioritize safe and secure shipping methods to ensure our customers receive thriving corals, no matter the season. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well-prepared to handle the challenges of winter shipping.
