What is the best way to ship frozen breast milk?

The Best Way to Ship Frozen Breast Milk
Shipping frozen breast milk is a crucial task for many mothers, especially those who are working, traveling, or separated from their infants for extended periods. Ensuring that this precious resource arrives safely and in optimal condition requires careful planning and execution. Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively ship frozen breast milk.
1. Preparation and Packaging
Before shipping, it’s essential to prepare the breast milk properly. Start by freezing the milk in small portions, ideally in 4-ounce bags or containers. This not only makes it easier to thaw later but also helps maintain the milk’s quality during transit. Once frozen, seal the bags tightly to prevent any leakage. For added security, consider double-bagging the milk to further reduce the risk of spills.
2. Choosing the Right Container
The choice of shipping container is critical. An insulated container is necessary to keep the milk frozen during transit. You can use a cooler or a specially designed shipping box. To maintain the frozen state, pack the breast milk with dry ice or gel packs. Dry ice is particularly effective, as it can keep the milk frozen for an extended period, but it must be handled with care due to its extreme cold.
3. Labeling the Package
Proper labeling is vital for ensuring that the package is handled correctly. Clearly mark the package as “Frozen Breast Milk” and include any necessary handling instructions. This helps postal workers understand the importance of keeping the package at a low temperature.
4. Selecting a Shipping Method
When it comes to shipping, choose a reliable courier service that offers expedited shipping options. Services like FedEx or UPS are often recommended for their speed and reliability. Aim to ship the milk early in the week to avoid delays over the weekend, which could compromise the milk’s quality.
5. Timing and Tracking
Timing is crucial when shipping frozen breast milk. Ideally, the package should be shipped overnight or within 1-2 days to ensure it remains frozen. Additionally, using a tracking service allows you to monitor the package’s journey and ensure it arrives on time.
6. Consider Professional Services
For those who prefer a hassle-free option, several companies specialize in shipping breast milk. Services like Milk Stork provide pre-packaged kits that include everything needed for safe shipping, from insulated containers to dry ice, making the process straightforward for busy parents.
Conclusion
Shipping frozen breast milk is entirely feasible with the right preparation and materials. By following these guidelines—preparing the milk properly, using insulated containers with dry ice, labeling the package clearly, and choosing a reliable shipping method—mothers can ensure that their milk arrives safely and maintains its nutritional value. Whether for work, travel, or other commitments, these steps can help keep the bond between mother and child strong, even when apart.

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.

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.

Does UPS sell insulated boxes?

It’s easy. Simply contact your UPS account manager or visit ups.com/healthcare today to order reliable, cost-efficient packaging designed specifically to protect your temperature-sensitive packages shipped via UPS.

Does FedEx ship breast milk?

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

How to travel with frozen breast milk by car?

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 is frozen breast milk good for?

Breast milk can be stored at 0° F or colder for up to 12 months, although using it within 6 months is best. Count the age of the milk from the first time it was frozen, regardless of when it was moved. Moving frozen breast milk between freezer locations should be done quickly to ensure that the milk stays frozen.

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.

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 long can frozen breastmilk sit on counter?

If the milk has been previously frozen, once thawed, it can sit out at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. If thawed milk is put in the refrigerator, use within 24 hours. Do not re-freeze previously frozen breast milk. If the baby didn’t finish the bottle, discard the milk after 2 hours.

How to safely ship frozen breast milk?

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.