We despatch every order from the UK with care, using methods chosen to keep live cultures comfortable and arriving in the best possible condition. Here’s what to expect.
UK Delivery Only
We currently deliver to addresses within the United Kingdom only excluding Ireland . Free delivery is included on orders over £30; smaller orders incur a small delivery charge, shown at checkout before you complete your order.
Despatch Days & Live Cultures
Springtail and isopod cultures are living animals, so we only despatch them on days that mean they won’t be left sitting in a courier depot over a weekend or bank holiday. Orders placed later in the week may be held and sent on the next suitable despatch day — we’ll keep you updated if this affects your order.
Dry goods (substrates, leaf litter, cork bark, calcium products, equipment) ordered on their own can be despatched any working day.
Delivery Times
Most orders are sent on a tracked next-day courier service, so you should expect delivery the working day after despatch. Once your order has been despatched, you’ll receive a confirmation email with tracking information where available.
Weather-Related Delays
During spells of very hot or very cold weather, we may briefly delay despatch of live cultures to protect them in transit. This isn’t something we do lightly — it’s purely to give your culture the best chance of arriving happy and healthy. We’ll always aim to keep you informed if this affects your order.
Receiving Your Delivery
Live cultures are carefully packaged to retain warmth and humidity for transit, but should be opened as soon as possible after arrival. Please make sure someone is available to receive the parcel on the expected delivery day, and avoid leaving parcels containing live animals on a doorstep, in direct sun, or in a cold porch for an extended period.
For guidance on unpacking and acclimatising your new culture, see our Care Guides. If anything arrives damaged or in poor condition, see our Livestock Guarantee for what to do next.