We conclude that the invasive NZMS can be dispersed by non-aquatic-mediated mechanisms, and may tolerate translocation to reaches with contrasting environmental properties. Among the tested substrata, clay and sediment offered the highest chances of survival in non-aquatic transport. Additionally, we found a different tolerance to non-aquatic exposure between laboratory and field populations. Our findings may be used by watershed managers to develop actions to prevent lateral dispersal of exotic invasive mollusks, such as NZMS.