Can you ship breast milk through UPS?

Shipping Breast Milk Through UPS: A Comprehensive Overview
Shipping breast milk is a vital service for many mothers, especially those who are separated from their infants due to work or other commitments. If you’re considering using UPS for this purpose, here’s what you need to know.
Can You Ship Breast Milk with UPS?
Yes, you can ship breast milk through UPS. The company provides specific guidelines and services tailored for shipping perishable items, including breast milk. To ensure the milk remains safe and at the correct temperature during transit, it is crucial to follow proper packaging and shipping procedures.
Packaging Requirements
When preparing to ship breast milk, the packaging is key to maintaining its quality. Here are the essential steps:
1. Use Insulated Containers: It’s recommended to use insulated shipping containers that can keep the milk frozen. This can include boxes lined with Styrofoam or other insulating materials.
2. Include Dry Ice or Gel Packs: To keep the breast milk frozen, you can use dry ice or gel packs. If using dry ice, ensure that the container is well-ventilated to prevent gas buildup, as dry ice sublimates into carbon dioxide.
3. Seal and Label: Place the breast milk in sealed bags or containers, ideally double-bagged to prevent leaks. Clearly label the package with terms like “Contains Breast Milk,” “Perishable,” and “Keep Refrigerated” to ensure proper handling during transit .
Shipping Method
For optimal results, it is advisable to ship breast milk using UPS’s overnight services. This ensures that the milk arrives quickly and remains frozen throughout the journey. Shipping overnight minimizes the risk of spoilage and maintains the integrity of the milk.
Considerations for Shipping
– Timing: Plan your shipment carefully to avoid delays. Shipping early in the week can help prevent weekend delays, as packages may sit in transit longer if shipped close to the weekend.

– Tracking: Utilize UPS’s tracking services to monitor the shipment’s progress. This can provide peace of mind, knowing exactly when the package will arrive.
– Special Services: UPS offers specialized services for shipping breast milk, which can include guidance on packaging and shipping materials. It’s beneficial to consult with UPS directly or visit their website for detailed instructions.
Conclusion
Shipping breast milk through UPS is not only possible but can be done safely and efficiently with the right preparation. By following the recommended packaging guidelines and choosing the appropriate shipping method, you can ensure that your precious cargo arrives in perfect condition. Whether for personal use or as part of a larger service, UPS provides a reliable option for mothers needing to ship breast milk.

Can you ship breast milk through the 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 items Cannot be shipped by 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.

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.

How do you send milk in the mail?

Use an insulated foam container with a minimum of 1-1/2″-thick walls. Line the inside of the container with a watertight plastic liner if your item can melt or thaw. Double-bag perishable products that can melt or thaw and shipments that contain liquid in watertight plastic bags (minimum of 2-mil thickness).

Does UPS have cold packs for shipping?

a robust system offering frozen, refrigerated, and CRT temperature options to help protect products for extended time in transit. To learn more about UPS Temperature True Packaging solutions, contact your UPS Account Manager or request more information at ups.com/healthcare.

How to safely transport frozen breast milk?

Expressed breast milk may be stored and transported in an insulated cooler bag with frozen ice packs for up to 24 hours. Or the milk can be frozen in dry ice following these safety precautions. Once breast milk is cooled, keep it cool until it is used.

Does FedEx ship breast milk?

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

Is it illegal to give away breast milk?

Although states such as California, New York, and Texas have laws pertaining to the procurement and distribution of human milk, these laws pertain to milk donated through a licensed milk bank, and not to individual sellers in the informal “gray” market.

How do I ship my breast milk?

It is best to seal your breast milk bottles in ziploc bags and then pad them with crumpled up newspaper inside your cooler of dry ice. You can print out a FedEx shipping label online. I have heard of people shipping breast milk on regular ice via overnight US mail.

How much does 16 oz of breast milk weigh?

1 pound
16 ounces = 1 pound
A normal newborn may lose up to 10% of their birth weight in the first 4 days.