How ReefZoo Works
Welcome to ReefZoo, the purpose-built marketplace and community for reef enthusiasts. This guide will walk you through how to use our platform, with a focus on browsing the marketplace and placing orders with verified sellers.
Here's how it works, and how to place your first order - step by step.
Choose Your Experience
Explore our marketplace guide in the format that works best for you. Choose between our interactive walkthrough or a straightforward text version.
We know we can be a bit flashy at ReefZoo! If you find this no-nonsense option helpful, please contact us and let us know so we can add more options like this. We love feedback!
Browsing the Marketplace
ReefZoo's marketplace offers a streamlined approach to discovering corals, livestock, and equipment from verified sellers in the reef hobby.
Navigate to the Marketplace
Head to /market to begin browsing our curated selection of reef products.
Browse by Category
Use the menu in the top left labeled "Browse" to explore specific categories.
Apply Filters
Fine-tune your search with the "Filter" menu in the top right to narrow down results.
Explore Different Feeds
Switch between specialized feeds to discover the perfect items for your reef.
Explore Different Feeds
Main Feed
Browse all available listings from verified sellers across the platform.
Featured
Discover highlighted quality listings curated by our team.
Deals
Find special offers, discounts, and limited-time promotions.
For You
See listings from sellers you follow and items that match your interests.
Insider
Access the exclusive marketplace for verified sellers and insider members.
Our Smart Cart System
ReefZoo uses a smart order cart system designed specifically for the reef hobby marketplace. Unlike traditional e-commerce sites, our approach reflects the reality of the reef hobby where different sellers have different shipping methods and policies.
Seller-Specific Approach
Unlike general e-commerce platforms where you might add items from multiple vendors into a single cart, ReefZoo uses a seller-specific cart system that reflects how reef commerce actually works.
One cart per seller: Each cart is tied to a specific seller, ensuring optimal shipping conditions.
Package optimization: Bundling items from the same seller reduces shipping costs and environmental impact.
Specialized shipping: Different sellers have unique DOA policies and livestock shipping methods.
Note: Items in your cart aren't reserved until checkout is complete. Popular items may sell quickly!
Key Features of Our Smart Cart
Seller-Specific Carts
Unlike traditional e-commerce, each cart is tied to a specific seller. This ensures optimal shipping for your reef inhabitants.
Shipping Threshold Indicator
We clearly display how close you are to qualifying for free shipping, making it easy to optimize your order.
Real-Time Availability
Items in your cart aren't reserved - popular items may sell out, so complete your purchase promptly.
Adding Items to Your Cart
Find & Add Items
Browse listings and add items to your cart. This creates a seller-specific cart automatically.
Manage Your Cart
Access your cart through the cart icon or orders/cart page to review your selections.
Check Shipping Status
See if you qualify for free shipping or view the seller's flat-rate shipping cost.
Proceed to Checkout
When you're ready, click "Checkout" to begin the secure checkout process.
The Checkout Process
Our streamlined checkout experience is designed for security, clarity, and ease of use. Here's what to expect when completing your purchase.
Review Cart & Checkout
Make sure all desired items from the seller are added, then click 'Checkout' to begin the secure process.
Select Shipping Address
Choose from your saved addresses or add a new one. Accuracy is critical for livestock deliveries.
Add Notes (Optional)
Include any special requests or information for the seller about your order.
Secure Payment
Complete your payment through Stripe's secure checkout. Your payment info is never stored on ReefZoo.
Order Confirmation
After payment, you'll see a success page showing your order details and next steps.
Shipping Status
Track your package once the seller marks it as shipped. We'll keep you updated on its progress.
Pro Checkout Tips
Double-Check Shipping Details
Live coral and fish shipments can't be redirected once shipped. Ensure your address is accurate and that someone will be available to receive the package.
Add Helpful Notes
Including a friendly note or specific request in your order can help build rapport with sellers. Some sellers even include bonus frags for thoughtful customers.
Payment Security
We use Stripe for secure payment processing. Your payment information is never stored on ReefZoo, and the full amount is held until the seller accepts your order.
Shipping Timing
Most reef sellers ship on specific days of the week to ensure prompt delivery. Check the seller's profile for their shipping schedule before placing your order.
After Placing Your Order
Once you've placed your order, here's what you can expect to happen, from seller acceptance to delivery and reviews.
Order Pending
Typical time: 0-24 hours
After checkout, your order remains in 'Pending' status awaiting seller acceptance.
Order Accepted
Typical time: Within 24 hours
Seller has 24 hours to accept your order. Once accepted, your payment is processed.
Order Rejected
Typical time: Within 24 hours
If rejected, no charge is processed and the seller will provide a reason.
Order Shipped
Typical time: 1-5 days after acceptance
Your order is packaged and on its way. Tracking information is added to your order.
Order Delivered
Typical time: 1-3 days after shipping
Your package has been delivered according to tracking information.
Order Complete
Typical time: After delivery
Order marked as complete. Now you can leave a review for the seller.
Order Flow Visualization
Pending
Awaiting Seller Acceptance
Shipped
On Its Way to You
Completed
Ready for Review
Coming Soon: More Guides
We're working on detailed guides for many other aspects of the ReefZoo platform. Check back soon for these and more!
Setting Up Your Profile
Learn how to create an engaging ReefZoo profile that showcases your reef keeping journey.
Creating Reef Showcases
Document your reef tanks and coral collection with our specialized showcase features.
Community Interaction
Discover how to make posts, join discussions, and connect with fellow reefers.
Have a Guide Request?
Is there a specific aspect of ReefZoo you'd like to see explained in detail? We're always looking to improve our guides based on community feedback.
Submit Feedback