Live Gulf Blue Crab, Delivered Fresh Weekly

Yes, all of our blue crabs are delivered live. Each week, our founder, Kelb,y travels to Biloxi, Mississippi, to hand-select fresh, wild-caught blue crab directly from trusted Gulf docks. Once selected, the crabs are carefully packed and kept cool throughout the drive back to Missouri. They arrive at our West Plains market within 24 to 36 hours of being pulled from the traps, which means you're getting the freshest, liveliest crab available in the region. We do not freeze, precook, or store crab for later sale—what you get is this week’s catch, alive and ready to be cooked the way you like. Customers often tell us it's the closest they've come to a coastal crab boil without leaving Missouri. If you’ve been looking for real Gulf blue crab without the long drive, this is your chance. Be sure to reserve early—they sell out quickly.

Keeping your live blue crabs healthy until cooking time is crucial for quality and safety. Once you pick them up, keep them in a ventilated container, such as a cooler or tray—something that allows for air circulation. Drape a damp towel over the top to maintain moisture and keep them cool, but not too cold. Never place live crabs in standing water or seal them in an airtight container, as they need oxygen to survive. Don’t place them directly on ice, as this can shock or kill them prematurely. Ideally, you should cook them the same day you pick them up. If that’s not possible, they can typically last 12–24 hours with proper storage and handling. We recommend keeping them in a cool spot, such as a garage or utility area—not inside a warm kitchen. For the freshest results, plan to cook your crab boil soon after pickup and enjoy it at its peak.

Ordering blue crab from Shrimp Runner is fast, local, and easy. Each week, usually by Wednesday, we post our availability, pricing, and pickup schedule on our official Facebook page. To reserve your crab, simply comment on the post, send us a direct message, or call/text the listed number. We'll confirm your order, set a pickup location, and provide any additional details you may need. Our crabs are in high demand, and quantities are limited; therefore, it’s best to place your order early. Payment is usually made at the time of pickup, and we’ll always confirm your total and pickup location in advance. There’s no complicated online ordering system—just direct, personal communication from the folks who are sourcing and delivering your seafood. That’s part of the Shrimp Runner difference. We keep things transparent and community-focused while making sure you get exactly what you’re looking for—live, fresh Gulf crab.

You can pick up your live blue crab from our Shrimp Runner Fish Market in West Plains or at one of our partner pickup locations in Springfield, Missouri. Our most common partner sites include The Filipino Market on Campbell Avenue and The Hibiscus Jerk Hut on Glenstone Avenue. We also occasionally coordinate seasonal pickups at community events or farmers' markets, depending on demand. All pickup locations and times are clearly communicated in our weekly Facebook post, which includes product availability and ordering instructions. We aim to make the pickup process simple, fast, and local—no shipping delays or surprise logistics. Whether you're driving five minutes or forty-five, you can trust that your crab was alive and kicking just hours earlier. If you're unsure which location is closest or most convenient for you, feel free to message us, and we'll guide you to the best option for your needs.

How much crab you should order depends on your group size, cooking method, and how big your appetites are! For crab boils, a good rule of thumb is about 1.5 to 2 pounds of live crab per adult. If you're using crab for stuffing, crab cakes, or serving it alongside other dishes, 1 pound per person may be enough. Our crabs vary slightly in size each week depending on the Gulf catch, so we’ll give you a general weight range when you order. If you're new to buying whole crab, we’re happy to guide you based on your event or recipe plans. Just let us know how many people you're feeding and what kind of meal you’re preparing. Whether it’s a backyard feast or a quiet dinner for two, we’ll help you get the right amount. And remember—when in doubt, crab leftovers are never a bad thing.

No, we do not sell cleaned or precooked crab. At Shrimp Runner, we only offer live, whole blue crabs so you can experience the full flavor and freshness of Gulf seafood. Cleaning and cooking are left to you, which gives you maximum control over preparation style and timing. Cooking whole crab allows you to preserve the delicate sweetness and richness that make blue crab so special. While it may take a bit more effort than buying pre-packaged meat, many of our customers say it’s worth it—and part of the fun. We’re also happy to offer tips on steaming, seasoning, or cleaning if it’s your first time handling live crab. By keeping the crab whole and uncooked, we avoid any unnecessary processing that might compromise quality. It's the purest way to enjoy this Gulf delicacy—and we think once you try it, you’ll agree.