If you order fish online, make sure that you or somebody is at all times, at home. I don't know what happens if you are not home. I have never been unattentative enough to find out. Just be there (that's all I can say).
They ship usually in a bag, surraounded by stuffing (cotton-like), and that is surrounded by stirofoam, and then in a box. You should only be able to get fish by paying overnight shipping (hich, to me, is a must). It is safe if done professionally by a company that garentees live delivery and excellent health.