Ships Nationwide

Shipping Live Animals

We've shipped thousands of healthy turtles and tortoises nationwide. Here's exactly how we do it — and what to expect when yours arrives.

Live Arrival Guarantee

Nauti-Lass Ponds & Critters guarantees live arrival on all shipments. If your tortoise arrives deceased, we will replace the animal or issue a full refund — no questions asked. To qualify, the animal must be shipped to a FedEx hub and held for pickup. The animal must be picked up within 3 hours of its arrival time at the hub and you must notify us within 1 hour of pickup with photos.

How We Ship

FedEx Priority Overnight

All live animals ship via FedEx Priority Overnight — the fastest, most reliable option for live animal transport. Packages are picked up Monday through Wednesday to ensure delivery before the weekend. We never ship on Thursdays or Fridays to avoid weekend delays.

Temperature-Controlled Packaging

Each tortoise is packed in a breathable deli cup with damp paper towels for humidity and cushioning. The cup is placed inside an insulated foam box with heat packs (in cold weather) or cold packs (in extreme heat) to maintain a safe temperature range of 65–85°F throughout transit.

Secure Packaging

The foam box is placed inside a sturdy cardboard shipping box with additional padding. Boxes are clearly marked "Live Harmless Reptiles" and "This Side Up" per FedEx live animal shipping guidelines.

Shipping Seasons

We ship year-round to most of the continental US, with weather holds during extreme temperature events. We monitor forecasts at both the origin (Port Saint Lucie, FL) and destination zip codes before every shipment.

During summer heat waves, we may delay shipments by a day or two until temperatures drop to a safe range. During winter cold snaps, we add extra heat packs and may hold shipments until conditions improve. We will always contact you before delaying a shipment.

Spring (Mar–May)

Ideal

Best shipping season — mild temperatures nationwide

Summer (Jun–Aug)

Weather-dependent

Ships with cold packs; holds during heat waves above 95°F at destination

Fall (Sep–Nov)

Ideal

Excellent shipping conditions in most regions

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Weather-dependent

Ships with heat packs; holds during freezes below 35°F at destination

The Shipping Process

Order Placed

After your order is confirmed and payment processed, we schedule your shipment for the next available Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday.

Health Check

Your tortoise receives a final health inspection before packing. We verify it is eating, active, and in excellent condition.

Packed & Shipped

Your tortoise is packed and dropped off at FedEx. You receive a tracking number via email the same day.

Delivery Day

FedEx Priority Overnight delivers by 10:30 AM or noon in most areas. You must be present to sign for the package.

Unboxing

Open the box in a warm room. Allow your tortoise 30–60 minutes to warm up and acclimate before offering food or water. A soak in lukewarm water helps rehydrate after transit.

Shipping FAQs

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping is calculated at checkout based on your location. FedEx Priority Overnight rates typically range from $45–$75 for most continental US destinations.

Do you ship to Hawaii or Alaska?

We do not currently ship to Hawaii or Alaska due to the extended transit times and agricultural import restrictions.

Can I pick up my tortoise in person?

Yes! Local pickup is available at our facility in Port Saint Lucie, Florida by appointment. Contact us to arrange a pickup time.

What if my tortoise looks stressed after arrival?

Some stress after shipping is normal. Keep the tortoise warm, quiet, and undisturbed for 24–48 hours. Offer a soak and food after the first day. Contact us if you have concerns — we're here to help.

Do you ship internationally?

We do not currently offer international shipping. All sales are to continental US addresses only.

Questions about shipping? We're happy to help.