How to Ship Live Fish

People buy, sell and trade fish all the time. Sometimes, this requires shipping the fish to another city or state using the post office. Luckily, a fish can survive the shipping, if packaged properly. Following some simple steps ensures that your fish arrives to its new owner in perfect health.

1. Prepare the fish: Do not feed the fish for at least two days before the date that you are shipping the fish. This will keep them from defecating in the bag while in transit.

2. Prepare the bag: The fish should be placed in a plastic bag for shipping. The bag should be at least 1.5 to 2 milliliters. Make sure to have one bag per fish.

3. Add water to the bag: It is important to not overfill the bag. The bag should be 1/3 filled with water.

4. Place each fish in a bag: Use a separate bag for each fish.

5. Label each bag: After placing the fish in the bag, it is important to use an adhesive tape and label the bag.

6. Add oxygen: Once the water and the fish are in the bag, you should pump regular oxygen into the bag.

7. Secure the bag: Twist the top of the bag and tie it in a knot. It can be secured even further with a rubber band.

8. Prepare the box for shipping: Label the outside of the box with the person's name and address you are shipping to, as well as your name and address.

9. Pack the fish in the box: Place the bag(s) into the box. Then tape the box up.

10. Insulate: It is vital to use polystyrene thermal insulation inside the box to keep the fish's temperature the same. You also want to secure the bag with packing peanuts. If you are shipping more than one fish, use Styrofoam shelving between the bags.

11. Carry your box to the post office: Take your box to the post office to be shipped. This should be done immediately. Make sure to ask the clerk for the date of delivery. If shipping during colder weather, you should ship the fish overnight.

12. Call your customer: Call the customer and let him know what date the fish will arrive. This way he can be sure to receive, open and unpack the fish as soon as the box is delivered.