How to Buy on FragSwop

Getting Started

FragSwop is the UK's marketplace for live aquatic livestock including corals, marine fish, freshwater fish, invertebrates, and aquatic plants. Here's how to make your first purchase.

1. Create an Account

Sign up for a free account to start browsing and buying. You'll need:

• A valid email address
• A UK delivery address
• To be 18 years or older

2. Browse the Marketplace

Explore listings by category, species, or use the search function. Each listing includes:

• Photos of the actual item (not stock images)
• Species identification and common name
• Size, origin (captive-bred, wild-caught, etc.)
• Health status and care requirements
• Seller ratings and reviews
• Shipping options and costs

Listing Types

FragSwop offers different ways to purchase:

Fixed Price

Standard listings with a set price. Click "Add to Cart" and proceed to checkout.

Auctions

Place bids on auction listings. Auctions can run for 1, 3, 5, 7, or 10 days. The highest bidder when the auction ends wins the item.

Auction with Buy It Now

Some auctions include a "Buy It Now" option, allowing you to purchase immediately at a fixed price instead of waiting for the auction to end.

Shopping Cart & Checkout

Your Cart

Items in your cart are grouped by seller. This allows sellers to combine shipping when you buy multiple items from them.

Checkout Process

Our 4-step checkout makes purchasing simple:

1. Shipping: Enter or select your UK delivery address. Choose a delivery option for each seller (standard, express, or collection if available).
2. Review: Check your order summary, including items, shipping costs, and total.
3. Payment: Pay securely via Stripe. We accept credit/debit cards and other payment methods. 3D Secure authentication may be required.
4. Confirmation: Receive your order confirmation and tracking details once the seller ships.

After Your Purchase

Order Tracking

Track your order status in your account dashboard. You'll receive notifications when:

• Your order is confirmed
• The seller ships your items
• Your delivery is on the way
• Weather holds affect your shipment

Receiving Your Order

When your live livestock arrives:

1. Open the package immediately upon delivery
2. Check all animals are alive and healthy
3. Float bags in your tank to temperature match (15-30 minutes)
4. Acclimate slowly to your water parameters
5. Take photos of everything for your records

Confirming Delivery

Mark your order as "received" in your dashboard once you've unpacked and checked everything. If you don't confirm, orders auto-complete after 14 days.

DOA Protection

FragSwop offers DOA (Dead on Arrival) protection for all live livestock purchases. If an animal arrives dead or in poor condition:

• You have 2 hours from delivery to report the issue
• Submit clear photos of the animal in its original packaging
• Provide water parameters and acclimation details

Learn more in our DOA Protection Guide.

Weather Holds

To protect live animals during extreme weather, FragSwop automatically pauses shipments when:

• Temperatures drop below 3°C
• Temperatures exceed 28°C
• Severe weather warnings are in effect

Learn more in our Shipping Information page.

Tips for Buyers

• Check seller ratings and reviews before purchasing
• Read the full listing description, including care requirements
• Ask questions via messaging if you need clarification
• Ensure your tank is ready to receive new livestock
• Be available on the delivery date to receive live animals promptly
• Have quarantine facilities ready if needed

Need Help?

If you have questions or issues with your order:

• Message the seller directly through the platform
• Check our Buyer FAQ
• Contact FragSwop support at [email protected]