Can you ship breast milk through the USPS?

Can You Ship Breast Milk Through the USPS?
Shipping breast milk through the United States Postal Service (USPS) is indeed possible, but it requires careful planning and adherence to specific guidelines to ensure the milk remains safe and uncontaminated during transit. This practice is particularly important for mothers who may need to send their milk to infants who are not in their immediate care, such as in cases of travel, work commitments, or for families utilizing donor milk.
Understanding the Regulations
USPS allows the shipment of breast milk, but it is crucial to package it correctly. The milk must be stored in sealed, leak-proof containers, ideally designed for breast milk storage. These containers should then be placed in insulated packaging to maintain the appropriate temperature throughout the shipping process. Using dry ice or gel packs is recommended to keep the milk frozen, especially if it is being shipped over longer distances or during warmer weather .
Packaging Tips
When preparing breast milk for shipment, mothers should follow these steps:
1. Use Appropriate Containers: Breast milk should be stored in bags or bottles specifically designed for this purpose. These containers should be sealed tightly to prevent any leaks.

2. Insulation is Key: Place the sealed containers in an insulated box. This box should be lined with dry ice or gel packs to maintain a cold temperature. It’s advisable to double-bag the milk to further prevent any potential spills.
3. Labeling: Clearly label the package as containing frozen breast milk. This helps postal workers handle the package with care and ensures it is kept at the right temperature during transit.
Shipping Considerations
While USPS does allow the shipment of breast milk, it is essential to consider the timing and duration of the shipment. The milk should ideally be shipped overnight or through expedited services to minimize the time it spends in transit. This is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of the milk.
Alternatives to USPS
For those who may find USPS shipping cumbersome, there are specialized services like Milk Stork, which cater specifically to shipping breast milk. These services provide pre-packaged kits that simplify the process, ensuring that the milk is shipped safely and efficiently.
Conclusion
In summary, shipping breast milk through USPS is feasible with the right precautions. Mothers should ensure that the milk is properly packaged, insulated, and labeled to maintain its integrity during transit. By following these guidelines, mothers can successfully send their milk to their little ones, ensuring they receive the nutritional benefits of breast milk even when separated.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

Can you ship breast milk via UPS?

For example, UPS requires that breast milk be shipped in a sturdy, insulated container with enough dry ice or gel packs to keep the milk frozen for at least 24 hours. FedEx recommends using their temperature-controlled packaging to ensure the milk stays at the correct temperature during shipping.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for breast milk?

The ‘Rule of Three’ guideline suggests allowing the baby to nurse for at least three minutes on each breast to ensure they receive a balance of foremilk (initial, thirst-quenching milk) and hindmilk (higher-fat, calorie-rich milk).

How do you package breast milk?

Store in breast milk storage bags or clean, food-grade containers. Make sure the containers are made of glass or plastic and have tight fitting lids. Do not store breast milk in disposable bottle liners or plastic bags that are not intended for storing breast milk.

How to ship breast milk USPS?

Yes, you can mail frozen breast milk. To package it for shipping, use an insulated container with dry ice or gel packs to maintain a frozen temperature. Place the frozen breast milk in sealed bags or containers, and double-bag them to prevent leakage.

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

Does FedEx ship breast milk?

We provide reliable solutions for shipping breast milk, pharmaceuticals and perishables.

Can I send breast milk in the mail?

Shipping Breastmilk
You will need to let them know the milk is a ‘bodily fluid’ and may need to declare the dry ice as a ‘hazardous substance’. Plan to ship your milk frozen. If the airline charges a prohibitive amount (as the containers will be heavy), consider overnight express service via FedEx.

Can liquids be mailed through USPS?

451.2 Mailability
Liquids and powders that are nonhazardous (i.e., not regulated as hazardous materials) are mailable provided they are properly packaged as specified in 451.3. Any matter that is a source of an obnoxious odor is nonmailable.

What items Cannot be shipped through UPS?

Prohibited and Restricted Items for U.S. Import/Export

• Alcoholic beverages*
• Animal products, non-domesticated (e.g. mother of pearl inlay, snakeskin watchband)
• Articles of unusual value.
• Biological substances, Category B and exempt human or animal specimens.
• Dangerous goods.
• Electronic cigarettes.
• Firearms and weapons.
• Furs.