Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Can you ship breast milk via FedEx?

Can you ship breast milk via FedEx?

Shipping Breast Milk via FedEx: A Comprehensive Overview
Shipping breast milk is a vital service for many mothers who need to ensure their infants receive the nutritional benefits of breast milk, even when they are apart. FedEx is one of the carriers that allows for the shipping of breast milk, but there are specific guidelines and best practices to follow to ensure safe and effective delivery.
Can You Ship Breast Milk with FedEx?
Yes, you can ship breast milk using FedEx. The company provides options for shipping perishable items, including breast milk, which is crucial for maintaining its quality during transit. FedEx offers various temperature-control solutions to keep products refrigerated or frozen, which is essential for breast milk that needs to remain at a specific temperature to preserve its nutrients and safety.
Packaging Requirements
When preparing to ship breast milk, proper packaging is critical. Here are the recommended steps:
1. Use Insulated Containers: It’s advisable to use insulated shipping containers that can maintain the required temperature. For frozen breast milk, dry ice or gel packs are recommended to keep the milk frozen during transit.
2. Seal and Label: Place the breast milk in sealed bags or containers, ensuring they are double-bagged to prevent any leakage. Clearly label the package as “Frozen Breast Milk” or “Perishable” to alert handlers to the contents.
3. Shipping Labels: When creating shipping labels, it’s important to indicate that the package contains perishable items. FedEx may offer discounted shipping labels specifically for breast milk shipments, which can help reduce costs.
Delivery Options
FedEx provides various delivery options, including express services that can ensure the package arrives quickly. For instance, if you are shipping to a residential address, you may be able to arrange for Saturday delivery, although this may come with additional costs and is not available in all areas. Using Priority Overnight shipping is often recommended to ensure that the milk arrives the next day, which is particularly important for maintaining its quality.
Considerations for International Shipping
If you are considering shipping breast milk internationally, be aware that FedEx International does not operate on weekends, which could affect your shipping timeline. Additionally, customs forms may be required for international shipments, so it’s essential to check the specific regulations for the destination country.
Conclusion
Shipping breast milk via FedEx is a feasible option for mothers needing to send milk to their infants. By following the proper packaging guidelines, utilizing the right shipping services, and ensuring clear labeling, you can help ensure that the breast milk arrives safely and in good condition. Always check with FedEx for the latest policies and options available to make your shipping experience as smooth as possible.

Can you ship breast milk through the USPS?

Ship overnight, as you want the breast milk to stay frozen in transit. DHL, FedEx, UPS, and USPS offer milk shipping services, so you can rest assured your shipment will maintain its temperature and be delivered quickly.

How to mail frozen breast milk USPS?

USPS® does not offer refrigeration services. You may ship frozen articles using packaging supplies like Dry Ice at your own risk and according to Publication 52 section on Dry Ice. The frozen product must be packaged so as not to leak or cause odors.

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 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.

How can I ship 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.

Does FedEx ship breast milk?

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

Can you transport breast milk?

Passengers can carry with them all expressed milk, ice packs, gel packs (frozen or unfrozen), pumps and pump kits, and other items required to transport expressed milk through airport security checkpoints and onboard flights.

How do I ship liquid through FedEx?

Refer to the current FedEx Service Guide for terms, conditions, and limitations applicable to FedEx delivery services.

  1. Store the liquid and secure the containers. We recommend using watertight plastic containers for liquid shipping.
  2. Pack the containers.
  3. Seal and label your shipment.

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 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.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment