The optimal way to ship betta fish is to use double-layer oxygen bags sealed with pure oxygen, combined with an insulated foam box for temperature control, and select a reliable courier or air freight service. Below is a detailed analysis and operational guide:
I. Packaging Material Selection
Double-Layer Oxygen Bags
Prefer aquarium-specific nylon or canvas bags (especially for large or spiny bettas). Regular plastic bags must be intact and airtight.
Fill the bag with water to 1/3–3/5 of its capacity. This ensures enough space for the fish to move and avoids crowding.
Fill the bag with pure oxygen before sealing to maintain sufficient oxygen during transit (one oxygenation can last over 30 hours).
Auxiliary Materials
Foam Box: Punch air holes inside for ventilation. Add ice packs to cool in summer and heating packs to insulate in winter.
Cushioning: Fill empty spaces with foam boards, bubble wrap, or damp sponges to prevent the bag from shifting.
Light Shielding: For sensitive bettas, wrap the bag in a black plastic bag or newspaper to reduce stress.
II. Pre-Shipping Preparation
Fasting Treatment
Stop feeding the fish 2–3 days before shipping to empty their intestines. This prevents water contamination from excrement.
Acclimate the fish to a temporary holding tank in advance to adapt to minor water parameter changes. Only ship healthy individuals.
Water Quality Control
Use newly aged, aerated water (tap water needs 2–3 days of aeration) to ensure adequate dissolved oxygen.
Adjust the water temperature based on the fish species. Keep it higher in winter and lower in summer, matching the temperature of the temporary holding tank.
III. Shipping Method Options
Courier Service
Recommended Couriers: SF Express Land Transport (requires a surcharge) or ZTO Express. ZTO is the default choice, but track the shipment closely.
Transit Time: Keep shipping duration within 24–72 hours to avoid prolonged 颠簸.
Labeling: Clearly mark "Live Animals" and "Upright" on the outer package. Secure labels with waterproof tape.
Air Freight Service
Suitable for long-distance shipping. Contact reputable airlines that offer air freight with temperature control.
Prepare necessary documents in advance, such as an Animal Quarantine Certificate and Transport Vehicle Disinfection Certificate.
IV. In-Transit Notes
Density Control
Ship one fish per bag to prevent larger fish from swallowing smaller ones.
Adjust the number of fish per bag based on water temperature and fish size to ensure they can move freely.
Temperature Management
Use ice packs to cool in summer and heating packs to warm in winter. Avoid sudden temperature changes.
Add aluminum insulation cotton or hot water bags inside the foam box for better temperature control.
Stress Reduction
Include a collapsible betta mirror. The reflected image relieves loneliness and reduces anxiety.
For sensitive bettas, add an external black plastic bag for light shielding to minimize stress responses.
V. Post-Shipping Handling
Acclimation Process
Submerge the sealed bag in the target tank for 10 minutes to equalize the temperature.
Pour out some water from the bag, then add 300–400 milliliters of tank water every 3 minutes for 15 minutes.
Add aquarium salt at a concentration of 1 gram per liter, soak the fish for 10–15 minutes for disinfection, then use a net to transfer the fish to the tank.
Observation and Care
The fish will be weak after shipping. Avoid feeding immediately; offer small amounts of food after 1–2 days of acclimation.
Check for white spots, blood streaks, or abnormal swimming. Isolate and treat affected fish promptly.