The Surgery Is Now Open

Hi Amy,

Another interesting animal packaging question—perhaps people will start calling me the Packaging Veterinarian soon! You’re absolutely correct; polythene bags are the ideal solution for shipping fish. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? While some customers opt for customized packaging solutions, such as leak-proof boxes specifically designed for pets, these tend to be more suited for larger-scale operations. For your small business, standard stock products will likely serve you well.

From our selection, I strongly suggest using medium-duty, open-top clear polythene bags for packaging your fish. These bags provide excellent clarity, which is crucial because fish are more comfortable when they can see their surroundings and enjoy natural light. That’s why fish tanks are transparent! Additionally, these bags are completely waterproof, and we’ve thoroughly tested them since receiving your inquiry to ensure there’s no risk of leaks. Regarding inflation, these bags are 200 gauge (50 microns thick), making them robust enough to hold maximum capacity while remaining flexible. Their open ends allow you to insert an oxygen tube and secure the top with either an elastic band or a cable tie. Just make sure the tie is as tight as possible to prevent any water from escaping.

In case your fish are traveling a long distance or require additional protection, consider upgrading to our heavy-duty polythene bags. These bags still offer decent clarity but are 400 gauge (100 microns thick) for added strength. They’re also available in larger sizes, up to 36 x 48 inches, which is perfect for bigger species like Koi Carp.

I hope your fish have a smooth journey! – The Packaging Doctor

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