Effective Date: July 2026
At Scaly Friends, the health, safety, and welfare of reptiles are our highest priority. This Shipping & Live Animal Policy outlines the responsibilities of buyers and breeders when arranging the transport of live animals through our marketplace.
1. Scaly Friends is a Marketplace
Scaly Friends connects buyers with independent reptile breeders throughout South Africa.
We do not:
- Own the reptiles listed for sale.
- Arrange shipping or courier services.
- Transport live animals.
- Inspect animals before shipment.
All shipping arrangements are made directly between the buyer and the breeder.
2. Animal Welfare Comes First
The welfare of every reptile must always take priority over convenience.
Breeders should only ship reptiles that are:
- Healthy
- Feeding consistently (where appropriate)
- Free from obvious illness or injury
- Suitable for transport
If a reptile’s welfare could be compromised by shipping conditions, transport should be postponed.
3. Legal Compliance
Buyers and breeders are responsible for ensuring that all transport complies with:
- South African laws
- Provincial conservation regulations
- Permit requirements
- Courier regulations
Scaly Friends accepts no responsibility for shipments that do not comply with applicable legislation.
4. Choosing a Courier
Breeders should use reputable transport providers that are legally permitted and experienced in transporting live reptiles where required.
Before shipping, both parties should agree on:
- Collection date
- Delivery location
- Estimated delivery time
- Shipping costs
- Tracking information (if available)
5. Packaging Standards
Breeders are responsible for ensuring reptiles are packaged safely and securely.
Appropriate packaging should:
- Prevent escape.
- Minimise unnecessary movement.
- Protect against injury.
- Provide adequate ventilation where appropriate.
- Be suitable for the species being transported.
6. Weather Conditions
Extreme weather can place reptiles at risk.
Breeders should avoid shipping during:
- Extremely hot conditions
- Extremely cold conditions
- Severe storms
- Conditions likely to endanger the animal
If necessary, shipping should be delayed until conditions improve.
7. Buyer Responsibilities
Buyers should:
- Ensure they are legally permitted to own the reptile.
- Confirm they will be available to receive the animal.
- Prepare the enclosure before delivery.
- Carefully inspect the reptile upon arrival.
- Contact the breeder promptly if any concerns arise.
8. Breeder Responsibilities
Breeders should:
- Provide honest information about the reptile.
- Package reptiles responsibly.
- Clearly communicate shipping arrangements.
- Notify buyers when the reptile has been dispatched.
- Respond promptly to shipping enquiries.
9. Shipping Delays
Unexpected delays may occur due to:
- Weather
- Road conditions
- Courier schedules
- Public holidays
- Other unforeseen circumstances
Scaly Friends is not responsible for courier delays or transport disruptions.
10. Risk During Transport
Unless otherwise agreed between the buyer and breeder, responsibility for the reptile during transport should be clearly discussed before shipping.
We encourage both parties to communicate openly and agree on shipping terms in writing.
Animal Welfare Notice
The welfare of every reptile comes first. If weather conditions, transport arrangements, or any other circumstance could place an animal at unnecessary risk, we encourage breeders and buyers to postpone shipping until it can be carried out safely.
11. Live Arrival Guarantees
Some breeders may choose to offer a Live Arrival Guarantee.
Any such guarantee is offered solely by the breeder.
Scaly Friends does not provide or enforce Live Arrival Guarantees.
12. Collection in Person
Where possible, buyers and breeders may agree to collect reptiles in person.
This often allows buyers to:
- View the reptile before purchase.
- Ask questions directly.
- Reduce transport-related stress on the animal.
13. Disputes
Any disputes relating to shipping or the condition of a reptile after transport should first be discussed directly between the buyer and breeder.
Scaly Friends may review reports of repeated misconduct but is not a party to the transaction.
14. Our Commitment to Animal Welfare
Scaly Friends is committed to promoting ethical reptile keeping and responsible breeding practices.
We encourage every member of our community to make decisions that place the health and welfare of reptiles above all else.
Contact Us
If you have questions regarding this policy, please contact:
Scaly Friends
