this is goint to depend...next day is obvious. You will save as much "life", but $$$$...next day is ok in my book (although ive never ordered it). You will have some die off, but a quick cleaning and your cycling. I dont think i'd go more than that. Shipping methods matter too as some ship wet, in water, or covered in newspaper. Big help, huh
What are you looking at doing? How much rock?..whos the seller?