Isopod Shipping Help

[Taryndactyl0330]

I hope this is the right place for this post. Ok so I’m shipping isopods for the first time ever. I am a very very small business, just starting up & testing the waters. I’ve done a ton of research on how to ship, but my question is how do more experienced breeders cut their shipping costs?? The lady I’m shipping to is spending $10 on some P. Scaber “Dalmatians” from me & today I gave her the quote for shipping. $72 to overnight them & $32 for 2-day shipping (which is an option that makes me a little leary). We are in the same state. Her temps are forecasted to be in the high 80’s & I will be using a cold pack in an insulated shipping box. I’m worried I will scare her off & won’t have any business if I have to charge $70+ to ship overnight. Any help or advice is appreciated!

 

[Arthroverts]

There are very few people who use overnight to ship such things as isopods as it simply isn't necessary. If you are in the same state using USPS with a slower option should still get the package to them within two days (usually), and if you pack with an insulated shipping box and a cool pack it should last even longer. Even if not, it sounds like you are using FedEx, which is more expensive than overnight options through USPS.

Thanks,

Arthroverts

 

[Taryndactyl0330]

There are very few people who use overnight to ship such things as isopods as it simply isn't necessary. If you are in the same state using USPS with a slower option should still get the package to them within two days (usually), and if you pack with an insulated shipping box and a cool pack it should last even longer. Even if not, it sounds like you are using FedEx, which is more expensive than overnight options through USPS.

Thanks,

Arthroverts

Thank you! Yes I am considering using FedEx. I have been told that since COVID hit, shipping through USPS is no longer a viable option due to delays & that had me pretty worried. I’m seeing if I can ship 2-3 day with UPS though. It looks like they have some cheap options as well. Its been incredibly stressful. I’m trying to do things right, but gah! Haha

 

[Scorpiobsession]

Thank you! Yes I am considering using FedEx. I have been told that since COVID hit, shipping through USPS is no longer a viable option due to delays & that had me pretty worried. I’m seeing if I can ship 2-3 day with UPS though. It looks like they have some cheap options as well. Its been incredibly stressful. I’m trying to do things right, but gah! Haha

Use FedEx, I've heard many bad things about using USPS for animals. There's a reason FedEx is the only option for shipping reptiles.

 

[Frogdaddy]

@moricollins your help is needed here.

 

[moricollins]

So, I'm in a different country than the OP, so take it for whatever you want.

I've had Isopods take 4 days to arrive at their destination and still arrive ok, in 40-50F weather with only a 24hr heat pack (package got lost in the mail). Isopods are quite hardy and easy to ship.

Pack them well and they're going to survive 3-4 days in shipping, easily. If it's hot put in a cool pack or a phase 22 pack.

I do usually recommend that they get sent overnight, in Canada non-guaranteed delivery times can take a long time.

Shipping in Canada is pretty expensive, generally speaking, so I often include extra Isopods so that the buyer gets something extra