SHIPPING POLICY
Last updated: August 30, 2025
OVERVIEW
PodDrop LLC (“PodDrop,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is dedicated to delivering the highest quality live aquatic nutrition to reef aquarium enthusiasts across the United States. This Shipping Policy explains how we process, package, and deliver your live copepods and phytoplankton, including special considerations for bulk and recurring subscription orders.
SECTION 1 - SHIPPING REGIONS
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We ship to all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia.
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At this time, we do not ship internationally or to U.S. territories (e.g., Puerto Rico, Guam).
SECTION 2 - ORDER PROCESSING TIMES
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Standard orders are processed within 2-5 business days of payment confirmation.
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Orders placed after 12:00 PM MST or on weekends/holidays are processed the next business day.
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You will receive an order confirmation email immediately after purchase and a shipping confirmation with tracking details once your order ships.
SECTION 3 - SHIPPING METHODS & CARRIERS
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All live products are shipped via expedited services (SUCH AS FEDEX 2-DAY AND UPS 2-DAY) to ensure the fastest possible delivery.
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Carrier selection depends on speed, reliability, and your location to maximize live arrival success.
SECTION 4 - PACKAGING & HANDLING
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Live copepods and phytoplankton are bottled fresh on demand and packed in insulated, sealed containers with cold packs (when necessary) to maintain stable temperatures during transit.
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Each shipment is clearly labeled as containing live goods and includes handling instructions for the carrier and recipient.
SECTION 5 - SHIPPING RATES
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Free Shipping: Orders over $75 qualify for free shipping within the contiguous U.S.
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Flat Rate Shipping: Orders under $75 are subject to a flat shipping fee, displayed at checkout.
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Shipping rates are calculated based on order total and destination.
SECTION 6 - DELIVERY TIMEFRAMES
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Most orders arrive within 1-3 business days after shipment, depending on your location and carrier performance.
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Delivery timelines are estimates and not guaranteed. Delays may occur due to weather, carrier issues, or other factors beyond our control.
SECTION 7 - ADDRESS ACCURACY & DELIVERY RESPONSIBILITY
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Please ensure your shipping address and contact information are accurate and complete at checkout. PodDrop is not responsible for delays or losses due to incorrect addresses.
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We strongly recommend shipping to an address where someone will be present to receive the package immediately upon delivery, especially for live goods.
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PodDrop is not responsible for packages left outside, exposed to temperature extremes, or not promptly retrieved.
SCETION 8 - TRACKING & NOTIFICATIONS
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You will receive an email with tracking information as soon as your order ships.
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Please monitor your tracking and be available to receive your shipment on the expected delivery date.
SECTION 9 - DELIVERY ISSUES & LIVE ARRIVAL GUARANTEE
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If your order arrives late, damaged, or in poor condition, please refer to our [Refund Policy for Live Goods] for claim procedures.
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For live arrival guarantee claims, you must contact us within 2 hours of delivery (based on carrier timestamp) and provide clear photos of the unopened package and contents.
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PodDrop is not liable for delays or losses caused by carrier errors, weather disruptions, or failure to retrieve packages promptly.
SECTION 10 - WEATHER & SEASONAL CONSIDERATIONS
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During periods of extreme heat or cold, we may adjust shipping schedules or use additional insulation/cold packs to protect your order.
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In rare cases, we may delay shipment to ensure the best chance of live arrival. If this occurs, we will notify you by email.
SCETION 11 - HOLIDAYS & PEAK SHIPPING TIMES
Orders placed during holidays or peak shipping seasons may experience longer processing and transit times.
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We recommend ordering in advance if you need your products by a specific date.
SECTION 12 - BULK ORDERS
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Definition: Bulk orders are defined as single orders containing a significantly larger quantity of product (e.g., for aquarium clubs, stores, or events).
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Processing Time: Bulk orders may require additional lead time to ensure sufficient stock and optimal freshness. We will communicate estimated processing and delivery times at the time of order.
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Shipping Method: All bulk shipments are sent via expedited carrier with enhanced insulation and temperature control as needed.
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Coordination: We recommend contacting us before placing a bulk order to discuss timing, special requirements, and to ensure the best possible delivery experience.
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Contact: For bulk order inquiries, email sales@GetPodDrop.com or call +1 786.867-2929.
SECTION 13 - RECURRING SUBSCRIPTION ORDERS
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Automatic Fulfillment: Subscription orders are automatically processed and shipped at the frequency you select (e.g., weekly, bi-weekly, monthly).
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Shipping & Packaging: Subscription shipments receive the same careful packaging and expedited shipping as standard orders.
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Address Updates: Please ensure your shipping and payment information are current in your account to avoid missed or delayed shipments.
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Delivery Notifications: You will receive tracking information for each recurring shipment.
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Pause/Reschedule: If you need to pause or reschedule a subscription shipment, please update your preferences in your account dashboard or contact us at least 48 hours before your next scheduled shipment.
SECTION 14. Customer Support
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For questions about your shipment, tracking, delivery, bulk orders, or subscriptions, contact us at sales@GetPodDrop.com or +1 786.867-2929.
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We are here to help ensure your live reef nutrition arrives healthy and ready for your aquarium.