Livestock DOA Policy

DOA means livestock or coral arrives dead on arrival. Because livestock is time-sensitive, buyers and sellers must act quickly and keep clear proof.

What Counts as DOA

A DOA claim may apply when eligible livestock or coral is dead when delivered and the buyer follows the seller's stated policy and SaltyShelf's minimum claim requirements.

Claim Window

Buyers should inspect shipments immediately on delivery and submit a claim as soon as possible. Sellers may set specific claim windows, but they should be clear in the listing or seller policy.

Required Proof

A covered DOA claim may require clear photos or video of the unopened bag, shipping label, package condition, delivery timestamp, and the livestock or coral condition. Opening the bag before documenting the issue may void coverage.

When Coverage May Be Void

Coverage may be void if the buyer is unavailable for first delivery attempt, gives the wrong address, misses the claim window, opens the bag before proof, ignores acclimation or seller instructions, or if carrier/weather issues are excluded by the seller's posted policy.

Resolution Options

Depending on the seller policy and evidence, a seller may offer a refund, replacement, store credit, partial credit, or another reasonable resolution. Replacement availability may depend on inventory, weather, and safe shipping conditions.