Transhipping
What is Transhipping?
Transhipping lets you buy fish directly from exporters in Indonesia (and other source countries) — bypassing the UK wholesale chain entirely. We act as the consolidator: we bring in a container or air freight shipment, you order your fish in advance, and we pass them straight to you at cost.
The result? Rarer species, healthier fish (fewer stress stages), and prices 30–50% lower than standard retail.
How Our Transhipping Works
1. Watch for the schedule
We announce each transhipping run via our website countdown, email list, and social media. Typical schedules are every 6–10 weeks from Indonesia, with occasional runs from other exporting countries.
2. Browse & reserve your fish
Once a run is announced, a stock list goes live on the site. You add fish to your order and pay a deposit to secure them. Quantities are strictly limited — first come, first served.
3. We import & acclimate
Fish arrive at our facility in the UK. We acclimate, health-check, and hold them for a minimum of 48 hours before dispatch. Any DOAs are refunded in full — our Live Arrival Guarantee applies to every transhipping order.
4. Shipped to your door
We dispatch via specialist live fish courier (next-day AM). Fish are packed with oxygen, heat packs, and insulated boxes rated for the season.
Pricing
Because we import directly, pricing reflects the exporter’s list price plus a modest handling and shipping fee — not the full retail mark-up. You’ll see the exact price per fish on each run’s stock list before you commit.
Who Is It For?
Transhipping is ideal for:
- Experienced fishkeepers who want species not commonly available in the UK
- Breeders looking for wild-caught or F1 stock
- Fish clubs that want to split a larger order between members
- Retailers — we offer trade accounts, contact us to discuss
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience to order?
We recommend transhipping orders for fishkeepers who already have established, cycled tanks. Wild-caught and freshly imported fish need experienced care. If you’re unsure, drop us a message first.
What if my fish arrive dead?
Our full Live Arrival Guarantee covers transhipping orders. Photograph the bag within 2 hours of delivery and contact us — we’ll refund or replace.
Can I visit to collect?
Collection is available by arrangement. Contact us once your order is confirmed to arrange a collection slot.
What species do you typically import?
Mainly freshwater tropicals from Indonesia and South East Asia — wild discus, rare plecos, dwarf cichlids, unusual tetras, and specialist oddball species. Each run’s stock list will vary.
Stay Notified
The best way to catch a transhipping run before it sells out is to join our mailing list. We email the stock list to subscribers 24 hours before it goes live on the website.