How do I send breastmilk in the mail?

Sending Breastmilk in the Mail: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
With the growing number of mothers returning to work or needing to be away from their infants, the demand for shipping breastmilk has significantly increased. This vital resource helps ensure that babies receive the best nutrition, even when their mothers are not physically present. Whether for a family member, a friend, or even a milk bank, sending breastmilk through the mail requires careful planning and adherence to specific guidelines to ensure safety and quality.
Preparing the Breastmilk for Shipping
1. Pumping and Storage:
– Begin by pumping the breastmilk into clean, sterilized containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic bottles, as well as breastmilk storage bags, are ideal choices.
– Label each container with the date and time the milk was expressed. This helps track freshness and ensures the recipient knows how old the milk is.
2. Freezing the Milk:
– If you plan to ship the milk, freeze it beforehand. Frozen breastmilk can last for up to six months in the freezer, ensuring that it remains safe for the baby when it reaches its destination.
3. Thawing Before Shipping:
– It’s advisable to thaw the breastmilk in the refrigerator prior to shipping. However, if you are sending it frozen, be sure to pack it in that state.
Packing the Breastmilk
1. Insulation:
– Use an insulated cooler or a sturdy box to help maintain the temperature of the breastmilk during transit. This is crucial, especially if the shipping time exceeds a few hours.
2. Ice Packs:
– Include gel ice packs or dry ice to keep the milk frozen. Ensure that the ice packs are properly sealed to prevent leakage.
3. Packing Materials:
– Surround the breastmilk containers with padding materials like bubble wrap or packing peanuts to prevent movement and potential breakage during shipping.
4. Sealing the Package:
– Ensure the package is sealed securely with strong packing tape, and clearly label it as containing breastmilk. This helps postal workers handle it with care.
Choosing a Shipping Method
1. Shipping Service:
– Opt for a reliable shipping service that offers express delivery options to ensure that the milk arrives as quickly as possible. Services like FedEx or UPS typically provide faster delivery than standard postal services.
2. Timing:
– Aim to ship early in the week, preferably on a Monday or Tuesday, to avoid delays over the weekend. This helps ensure that the milk does not sit in transit for extended periods.
3. Tracking:
– Utilize tracking options provided by the shipping company. This allows you to monitor the package’s journey and confirm its delivery.
Legal Considerations
Before shipping breastmilk, it’s essential to check any legal regulations or restrictions regarding the transportation of human milk, particularly if shipping across state or international borders. Different regions may have varying guidelines, especially concerning health and safety.
Conclusion
Sending breastmilk through the mail can be a straightforward process if done correctly. By preparing the milk, packing it properly, and choosing a reliable shipping method, mothers can ensure that their babies receive the nutrition they need, no matter the distance. As always, it’s crucial to stay informed about the best practices to maintain the quality and safety of breastmilk during transit.

Can you send breast milk in the mail?

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.

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.

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.

Can you ship breast milk via FedEx?

When you’re ready, load your sealed containers of breast milk into each box and push the button on the cooler engine to activate. No preconditioningis required. Select your FedEx delivery option. 2 Your shipments will remain in the custodial control of the secure FedEx® network.

Does FedEx have refrigerated trucks?

Refrigerated truck delivers to FedEx consolidation points. Shipments routed on refrigerated trailers. Delivered to assigned destination hubs.

Where can I send my breast milk?

You can reach them at 1.877. 375.6645 (option 4 for Spanish) or via email at [email protected]. You may also visit the University of California Health Milk Bank at https://uchealth.service-now.com/csp for more information and to become a donor.

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 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.

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).