New fish
New fish arrival: prepare before opening the bag
Have the destination and your supplier’s arrival instructions ready before the delivery arrives.
Before delivery
Confirm the prepared pond or quarantine setup is stable, aerated and suitable. Have safe handling equipment ready and make sure someone can receive the fish. Know the current delivery and live-arrival policy.
Assess the situation
Check the fish and packaging promptly. Transport time, bag condition, temperature and water chemistry affect the correct procedure. Follow the specific instructions supplied with the fish; do not apply a long drip routine to every shipped bag.
Move calmly and safely
Avoid unnecessary handling or pouring transport water into an established pond. Keep the transfer secure so a startled fish cannot fall. If a fish appears seriously distressed, contact the supplier immediately rather than extending an unsuitable process.
After release
Allow a calm settling period, watch behaviour and follow the feeding advice supplied. Keep arrival observations and any requested evidence. Read the actual policy rather than assuming every problem has identical cover.
Have the order details to hand
Keep your order number, the included care guide and the contact route beside the receiving area. Read the instructions before the courier arrives and make sure the person accepting the parcel knows it contains live fish.
Sources & further reading
Original WakeyKoi wording, informed by the references below. Linked clinical resources explain the evidence and their scope; they have not reviewed or endorsed this website.
Related guides
Educational guidance cannot diagnose an individual fish. Breathing distress, severe injury or unexplained losses need prompt professional assessment.