FAQ - CURRENT SHOPIFY
These are modified so not exact but same questions. Need links and to add to the rest of the articles
Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL ORDER QUESTIONS
What if I’m not sure what size enclosure or which add-ons I need?
We offer proven, species-appropriate recommended setups designed to remove guesswork. Review those first. If you still need guidance, contact us directly and we will point you to the correct configuration based on real-world use and experience.
[LINK → Recommended Setups Collection]
Do you offer custom-sized enclosures or racks?
Our catalog is actively expanding based on demand. If there is a common size you don’t see listed, contact us. We will confirm whether it fits our manufacturing standards and production flow.
What is your lead time? How long will it take to receive my order?
Lead times vary based on order volume and holidays. The current lead time is always posted at the top of our homepage and should be referenced before ordering.
UPS Ground shipments typically arrive within 3–5 business days once shipped. Freight delivery times vary by carrier and destination.
[LINK → Homepage Lead Time Banner]
Why do you use thicker PVC on larger enclosures?
Larger enclosures experience greater load, span, and movement forces. Thicker PVC prevents sagging, bowing, and long-term structural failure while maintaining a clean, professional appearance. It also allows casters to be mounted directly to the enclosure base without compromise.
[LINK → Enclosure Construction Standards]
Do you offer white PVC enclosures or racks?
Yes. All applicable models are available in both black and white PVC.
What PVC thickness do you use for enclosures?
XT4 and smaller enclosures are built from ½″ PVC.
XT5 and larger enclosures are built from ¾″ PVC, with select applications using 1″ PVC where additional rigidity is required.
[LINK → Enclosure Models Overview]
ACCESSORIES
What is an 8.5″ screen cutout?
An 8.5″ screen cutout is a reinforced, mesh-covered opening routed into the enclosure top. It allows the use of external dome fixtures for heat or UVB while maintaining enclosure integrity.
[LINK → Screen Cutout Option]
What is a lamp holder?
A lamp holder is an internal, enclosure-mounted fixture designed to safely hold heat or UVB bulbs. Bulbs are not included.
[LINK → Lamp Holder Products]
What is a Radiant Heat Panel (RHP)?
A radiant heat panel mounts to the enclosure ceiling and radiates heat downward, creating a stable thermal gradient. When paired with a thermostat, it provides consistent, safe heat. Slate or stone beneath the panel can be used for belly heat.
[LINK → Radiant Heat Panels]
What types of LED lighting do you offer?
We offer two LED options:
Vivarium Electronics low-level LED with dimmer for general illumination, and Arcadia LED lighting designed for plant growth in bioactive enclosures. If the Arcadia option is not listed, contact us.
[LINK → LED Lighting Options]
Do I need UVB lighting?
Some reptiles require UVB; others do not. There is ongoing debate regarding UVB use for certain snake species. In practice, we consistently observe animals utilizing UVB-equipped basking areas when available. This decision should be made based on species research and husbandry goals.
Do I need locks?
Locks are recommended if you want to restrict human access or are housing a strong or persistent animal. Our standard turn buttons are designed to securely contain the average snake.
[LINK → Lock Options]
Do you offer sliding glass doors?
No. We do not offer glass doors. Tempered glass significantly increases cost, weight, and shipping risk. Acrylic provides superior impact resistance, safer handling, and controlled logistics. Customers who prefer glass may request door specifications after ordering and source glass independently.
What optional features are available but may not be listed?
Swing-out or fixed side windows, acrylic or PVC substrate dams, ramps, perches, divided four-foot enclosures with rear heat zones, lamp holder deletes, vent deletes, and 3″ tub hides for smaller tubs.
[LINK → Custom Add-Ons & Options]
CLEANING
How should I clean enclosure windows?
Use mild soap and water or a cleaner formulated specifically for acrylic.
How should I clean the PVC enclosure?
Any cleaner that is safe for your animals is suitable for PVC surfaces.
THERMOSTATS & HEATING
Do I need a thermostat?
Yes. Any heat source must be controlled by a thermostat. Running heat without one is unsafe and unacceptable.
Recommended INKBIRD settings:
Cooling Delay: 1
Heating Delay: 1
PT: 0
[LINK → Thermostats]
How do I connect a radiant heat panel to a thermostat?
Plug the heat panel into the thermostat, then plug the thermostat into the wall. Never plug a radiant heat panel directly into a wall outlet. Doing so can result in extreme overheating and animal death.
Where should I place the probe in a rack system?
Place the probe in the probe slot on the middle shelf to achieve the most consistent temperature control.
Where should I place the probe in an enclosure?
Place the probe at the exact location where you want temperature accuracy, such as directly on a basking surface. Secure it so the animal cannot move it.
My radiant heat panel is not heating properly. What should I check?
Verify that the panel plug is fully seated. Animals may pull cords loose. Newer panels include retention clips to prevent this. For testing only, briefly plug the panel directly into the wall—do not leave it unattended. If using a Herpstat, confirm the output is configured for heat dimming or pulse mode and that the probe is properly connected and positioned.
RACK SYSTEMS
What are your latest rack system innovations?
https://www.blackboxcages.com/pages/blackbox-new-failsafe-rack-features
[LINK → Fail-Safe Rack Systems]
What is a toe kick?
A toe kick elevates the rack off the floor, creating an insulating air gap that prevents bottom tubs from becoming too cold. Racks are secured to the toe kick using provided metal dowels.
What is a caster dolly?
A caster dolly serves the same purpose as a toe kick while adding mobility for cleaning and room reconfiguration.
[LINK → Rack Accessories]
What PVC thickness do you use for racks?
All rack systems are built from ½″ PVC. We do not use thinner material.
Do your rack systems have full sides?
Yes. All rack systems include full side panels for strength, safety, and thermal stability.
SHIPPING
Will my order arrive assembled?
Local Georgia pickups are assembled and caulked. Most shipped enclosures are flat packed, with the exception of XT3 models. Rack systems are assembled and heated for freight or local pickup.
Models shipped assembled and caulked:
XT3, BIO-G, XC18, XA12, V70-3 Rack with 6″ belly heat, V28-3 Rack with 6″ belly heat
Racks are not caulked.
Models shipped flat packed:
XA3, XT4
Models shipped freight assembled:
XT5, XT6, XT8, all large rack systems
How will my shipped order arrive?
Flat-packed enclosures include instructions, hardware, and a small bottle of silicone.
Can racks be shipped unassembled?
No. Due to weight, racks must ship via freight. Freight pricing is the same assembled or unassembled, so all racks ship assembled.
Can enclosures ship assembled?
Yes, when shipped via freight. Contact us to arrange this.
[LINK → Freight Shipping Options]
How can I reduce freight costs?
Combine multiple racks into a single shipment, ship to a business address when possible, or arrange terminal pickup.
Can I pick up my order locally?
Yes. Local pickup is available at:
BlackBox Cages
4454 Atwater Ct. Ste. 103
Buford, GA 30518