Dry ice is a critical component in shipping perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and biological samples. If you’re wondering whether dry ice bags are allowed by UPS and FedEx in 2025, the answer is yes—both carriers permit dry ice shipments, but only under specific safety, packaging, and labeling conditions. In this article, we will explore the regulations governing dry ice shipments, the correct packaging and labeling, and the best practices to ensure safe and compliant transport.
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What is dry ice, and how does it differ from other coolants?
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What are the UPS and FedEx regulations for dry ice shipments in 2025?
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How do you properly package and label dry ice shipments?
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What are the common mistakes when shipping dry ice, and how can you avoid them?
What Is Dry Ice, and Why Use It for Shipping?
Dry ice, or solid carbon dioxide, is widely used in shipping to keep goods at sub-zero temperatures during transit. Unlike traditional ice, which melts into water, dry ice sublimates directly from solid to gas, which makes it ideal for preserving products that need to remain frozen during shipping.
Why Choose Dry Ice Bags Over Other Coolants?
Dry ice bags are specially designed to hold dry ice pellets or blocks in a vented pouch, providing a consistent temperature for extended periods. Unlike gel packs or foam insulation, which cannot maintain sub-zero conditions for long durations, dry ice bags are used for shipments that require ultra-low temperatures, making them ideal for biological samples, pharmaceuticals, and frozen foods.
| Packaging Type | Temperature Performance | Reusability | Common Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Ice Bags | Up to 72 hours at −78.5°C | Single-use | Frozen food, vaccines, biologics |
| Gel Packs | 12-24 hours at 0–15°C | Reusable | Fresh produce, pharmaceuticals |
| Foam Insulation (EPS) | 24-48 hours with dry ice | Reusable | General shipping of chilled items |
Dry ice bags outperform gel packs when sub-zero conditions are required. However, they are subject to hazardous material regulations because they contain carbon dioxide.
2025 UPS and FedEx Regulations for Dry Ice Shipments
Both UPS and FedEx follow stringent safety protocols for shipping dry ice to ensure compliance with hazardous material regulations. These include specific weight limits, packaging requirements, and labeling standards.
UPS Regulations for Dry Ice Shipments
UPS allows dry ice shipments with clear guidelines for packaging, labeling, and weight limits:
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Weight Limits: For domestic shipments, the maximum amount of dry ice per package is 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) for air and ground shipments.
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Packaging: UPS mandates that dry ice be shipped in vented containers to allow carbon dioxide to sublimate safely.
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Labeling: Packages must be marked with “Dry Ice” and UN 1845 along with the net weight and any special contents (e.g., medical).
For international shipments, UPS follows IATA regulations and may require a Hazardous Materials Agreement for quantities over 2.5 kg.
FedEx Regulations for Dry Ice Shipments
FedEx enforces similar rules but is stricter when it comes to training and documentation:
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Weight Limits: Like UPS, FedEx allows up to 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) of dry ice per package for domestic air shipments. For international shipments, the weight limit extends to 200 kg.
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Packaging: FedEx insists on using vented containers such as fiberboard, plastic, or wooden boxes.
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Labeling: Packages must include the UN 1845 marking, “Dry Ice”, and net weight, with Class 9 hazard labels for air shipments.
Tip: Always consult the FedEx Dangerous Goods hotline for specific queries related to shipments.
How to Package Dry Ice for Shipping: Step-by-Step Guide
Proper packaging is critical to ensure dry ice sublimates safely and does not build up dangerous pressure within the container. Follow these steps:
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Choose Vented Containers: Ensure the container allows carbon dioxide gas to escape. Use boxes made from fiberboard, plastic, or wood, which are suitable for venting.
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Calculate the Right Amount of Dry Ice: The common guideline is 1 lb per hour per cubic foot of package space. Add extra dry ice to account for potential shipping delays.
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Pack the Dry Ice Bag: Place the dry ice in the bag, ensuring it is surrounded by proper insulation like foam or bubble wrap to maintain a consistent temperature.
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Leave Venting Openings: Do not seal the bag or box completely. Ensure some gas can escape to avoid pressure buildup.
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Label Correctly: Use the correct labels such as “Dry Ice”, UN 1845, net weight, and any additional markings required for medical or hazardous goods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Sealing dry ice in airtight containers: This can lead to dangerous pressure buildup. Always use vented bags.
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Incorrect labeling: Missing UN 1845 or failing to mark the net weight can cause delays or rejections.
How to Avoid Common Dry Ice Shipping Errors
Shipping dry ice involves several regulations and safety precautions. To ensure smooth shipping, follow these tips:
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Use the Right Packaging Materials: Ensure your packaging can withstand the cold temperatures and allows proper venting.
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Always Vent Your Dry Ice: Never seal it in airtight packaging.
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Double-Check Labels: Always mark your package with the correct UN number and weight details.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your dry ice shipments are handled safely and comply with the latest regulations from both UPS and FedEx.
Latest Trends in Dry Ice Shipping (2025)
The cold chain logistics industry continues to evolve. In 2025, there are several notable trends influencing the way dry ice is used:
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Sustainability Initiatives: New biodegradable packaging and recyclable liners are becoming common to reduce the environmental footprint of dry ice shipments.
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Automated Packaging Systems: Automation is improving efficiency in cold chain logistics, ensuring the right amount of dry ice is used and minimizing waste.
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Advanced Insulation: Vacuum-insulated panels (VIPs) combined with dry ice are extending package hold times without increasing size.
Market Insights: With the rise of e-commerce, there’s a growing demand for reliable cold chain solutions for frozen food and biopharmaceuticals, driving continued innovation in dry ice packaging and shipping techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I ship dry ice in a sealed plastic bag with UPS or FedEx?
No, both UPS and FedEx prohibit sealed plastic bags because they do not allow for gas venting, which can lead to dangerous pressure buildup.
Q2: How much dry ice can I ship without needing hazardous materials paperwork?
UPS allows up to 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) of dry ice without hazardous materials documentation for domestic air shipments. FedEx requires dangerous goods classification for all dry ice shipments, regardless of weight.
Q3: What are the costs associated with shipping dry ice?
Shipping dry ice can involve charges based on dry ice weight, packaging costs, and potential surcharges for hazardous materials handling. Always check with the carriers for specific pricing details.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Shipping dry ice with UPS or FedEx is feasible, but it requires careful attention to packaging, labeling, and compliance with hazardous material regulations. Ensure that you follow all guidelines to avoid delays and ensure the safety of your shipments. Regularly check for updated 2025 regulations from both carriers to stay ahead of any changes.
Next Step: Plan your dry ice shipments carefully by consulting with UPS or FedEx for the most current guidelines. Proper training and documentation are key to safe and efficient shipping.
About Tempk
At Tempk, we specialize in cold chain logistics, offering dry ice shipping solutions that meet or exceed industry standards. Our team provides customized packaging options to ensure your goods are delivered safely and on time, preserving their quality during transit. Contact us for expert advice and to explore our packaging solutions tailored to your shipping needs.
