What happens when my order is placed on a Weather Hold?
Weather Holds
At My Turtle Store, the health and safety of our turtles and tortoises always come first. Because these animals are ectothermic (cold-blooded), they rely on external temperatures to regulate their body temperature. Exposure to extreme heat or cold, especially for extended periods during transit, can significantly increase the risk of stress, illness, or death.
Cold Weather Holds
Our cold-weather shipping requirements are based on the forecasted high temperature at the destination:
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Below 38°F: Weather Hold. We do not ship live animals until temperatures improve.
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38°F–45°F: Next Day Shipping only. 2-Day Shipping is not available.
Customers whose 2-Day orders are being held due to temperatures between 38°F and 45°F may choose to upgrade to Next Day Shipping to avoid waiting for warmer weather.
Hot Weather Holds
Our hot-weather shipping requirements are based on the forecasted high temperature at the destination:
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91°F–95°F: Next Day Shipping only. 2-Day Shipping is not available.
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Above 95°F: Weather Hold. We do not ship live animals until temperatures improve.
Customers whose 2-Day orders are being held because temperatures are between 91°F and 95°F may choose to upgrade to Next Day Shipping to avoid waiting for cooler weather.
Upgrade from 2-Day to Next Day Shipping
How Weather Holds Work
To help ensure your animal arrives healthy and safely:
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- We monitor forecasted temperatures at your shipping destination.
- Orders that fall outside our safe shipping temperature guidelines are automatically placed on Weather Hold at no additional cost.
- We continue monitoring weather conditions and will ship your order as soon as temperatures fall within the safe range for your selected shipping method.
- Weather Holds are intended to protect your animal during transit and may delay your originally anticipated shipping date.
We understand how exciting it is to receive your new turtle or tortoise and appreciate your patience when a Weather Hold is necessary. The safety of the animal will always take priority over shipping speed.