Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » How can I mail frozen breast milk?

How can I mail frozen breast milk?

How to Mail Frozen Breast Milk: A Comprehensive Guide
Mailing frozen breast milk can be a vital necessity for many mothers, whether due to work commitments, travel, or other circumstances. Understanding the proper methods for packaging and shipping is crucial to ensure that the milk remains safe and effective for feeding. Here’s a detailed look at how to successfully mail frozen breast milk.
1. Packaging Essentials
To start, select an insulated container that can maintain a frozen temperature during transit. This is critical to prevent the milk from thawing. You have a couple of options for insulation:
– Dry Ice: This is the most effective method for keeping breast milk frozen. When using dry ice, ensure that the container is well-ventilated, as dry ice can release carbon dioxide gas. It’s also important to label the package as containing dry ice, as it is considered a hazardous material.

– Gel Packs: If dry ice is not available, gel packs can be used as an alternative. However, they may not keep the milk frozen for as long as dry ice, so plan your shipping accordingly.
2. Preparing the Milk for Shipping
Before placing the breast milk in the shipping container, follow these steps:
– Seal the Milk: Use sealed bags or containers specifically designed for breast milk storage. Double-bagging is recommended to prevent any leaks during transit.

– Labeling: Clearly label the package as “Frozen Breast Milk” to inform postal workers of its contents. This is important for handling and ensures that the package is treated appropriately during shipping.
3. Choosing a Shipping Method
When it comes to shipping, consider the following:
– Select a Reliable Carrier: Choose a shipping service that offers overnight or express delivery to minimize the time the milk spends in transit. This is crucial for maintaining the milk’s frozen state.

– Timing: Ship the milk early in the week to avoid delays over the weekend, which could lead to thawing.
4. Legal and Health Considerations
It’s essential to be aware of any legal regulations regarding shipping breast milk, especially if you are sending it across state lines. Some states may have specific guidelines or restrictions. Additionally, ensure that the recipient is prepared to receive the package promptly to maintain the integrity of the milk.
5. Conclusion
Mailing frozen breast milk is entirely feasible with the right preparation and care. By using insulated containers with dry ice or gel packs, sealing the milk properly, and choosing a reliable shipping method, mothers can ensure that their precious supply of breast milk arrives safely and frozen. This process not only supports the nutritional needs of infants but also provides peace of mind for mothers who are navigating the challenges of breastfeeding while managing their busy lives.

Does FedEx ship breast milk?

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

How to safely ship frozen breast milk?

For packaging, use frozen breastmilk and follow the steps below

  1. Put as many bottles of milk into zip lock bags as will fit.
  2. Seal the bags.
  3. Wrap dry ice in paper and put in bottom of cooler.
  4. Layer newspaper over the ice.
  5. Put the bags of milk into the cooler.
  6. Pad the bags of bottles with crumpled newspaper.

What items are not allowed to be shipped by UPS?

Hazardous waste or hazardous waste service. Human remains, fetal remains, human body parts, human embryos or components thereof. Ivory. Marijuana, including marijuana intended for medical use and Cannabidoil (“CBD”) derived from Marijuana.

How do I ship frozen breast milk?

For packaging, use frozen breastmilk and follow the steps below

  1. Put as many bottles of milk into zip lock bags as will fit.
  2. Seal the bags.
  3. Wrap dry ice in paper and put in bottom of cooler.
  4. Layer newspaper over the ice.
  5. Put the bags of milk into the cooler.
  6. Pad the bags of bottles with crumpled newspaper.

Can you ship breast milk through UPS?

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 do I 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).

How to ship breast milk USPS?

Please, pack your milk (1-10 milliliters, or up to 0.4 fluid ounces) in a plastic bag made for breast milk storage (you can buy it at the pharmacy). Pack it in two or three bags, just for added security and to prevent spilling. Write your name, address, and order number on the bag.

How to ship frozen breast milk?

For packaging, use frozen breastmilk and follow the steps below

  1. Put as many bottles of milk into zip lock bags as will fit.
  2. Seal the bags.
  3. Wrap dry ice in paper and put in bottom of cooler.
  4. Layer newspaper over the ice.
  5. Put the bags of milk into the cooler.
  6. Pad the bags of bottles with crumpled newspaper.

How to pack frozen breast milk for travel?

Packing your frozen milk

  1. Use a well-insulated cooler that will hold your milk.
  2. Line the bottom of your cooler with newspaper.
  3. Place your milk bags in the cooler.
  4. Fill any extra space with more crumpled newspaper.
  5. Place another layer of newspaper on top of the milk.

How long will breastmilk stay frozen in a cooler with ice?

Breast milk can be stored in an insulated cooler with frozen ice packs for up to 24 hours when traveling. At your destination, use the milk right away, store it in the refrigerator, or freeze it.

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