Shipping breast milk over long distances can be stressful if you’re worried about spoilage or high shipping fees. The good news? Using a cheap dry ice block for shipping breast milk keeps your milk frozen and safe while reducing costs. Dry ice maintains sub zero temperatures without messy meltwater, and an inexpensive block is often enough for a 24 to 48 hour trip. Standard overnight shipping costs $50–$150 and packaging only adds $10–$30, so the dry ice itself is often the most affordable part. This guide shows you how to pack, label and ship breast milk on a budget while meeting 2025 regulations.
Why choose an affordable dry ice block for shipping breast milk? – discover how dry ice works and why it’s ideal for frozen milk
How to prepare and pack your breast milk with a dry ice block? – step by step instructions to keep milk frozen
What rules and safety guidelines apply when shipping with dry ice? – understand FAA/IATA limits, hazard labels and ventilation
How much does a dry ice block cost? – a cost breakdown with real prices from 2024–2025 suppliers
Which is better: dry ice blocks or gel packs? – compare cooling duration, compliance and cost
What are the 2025 trends in breast milk shipping? – new materials, smart monitoring and sustainable packaging
Why Choose a Cheap Dry Ice Block for Shipping Breast Milk?
Direct answer: Dry ice blocks are the safest and most cost effective way to keep breast milk frozen during transit. Dry ice sublimates directly from solid carbon dioxide to gas, so it maintains sub zero temperatures without creating meltwater that could damage storage bags A 10 pound block costs only $6 per pound when bought in small quantities and as little as $1.60 per pound for bulk orders. By choosing a cheap block instead of expensive gel packs or specialty services, you can protect your milk and your wallet.
Extended explanation: Unlike gel packs that maintain temperatures just above freezing for a few hours, dry ice keeps milk rock hard frozen for up to 72 hours and allows you to ship long distances without electricity Dry ice sublimation also means there’s no mess—only carbon dioxide gas escapes. The 2025 cold chain industry uses insulation made from thick Styrofoam or recyclable coolers to capture this cold environment, and 2–3 inch thick walls are recommended. Because carbon dioxide gas expands as the dry ice warms, shipping boxes must be vented and labeled “Dry Ice” with the net weight and UN 1845 hazard code While dry ice is a hazardous material, it is safe for breast milk when handled correctly and is considered non toxic compared with gel packs Choosing a budget dry ice block therefore provides longer cooling, less mess and less cost.
Selecting the Right Dry Ice Block and Cooler Size
Detailed information: Choosing the right size block and cooler ensures efficient cooling without overpaying. For short trips (12–24 hours), a 5 lb dry ice bag or block often suffices, while longer journeys (24–48 hours) may require 10 lbs For international shipping or large volumes, a 20 lb block gives extended protection Insulated coolers should have thick walls (2–3 inches) and be big enough to hold your milk plus the dry ice but not so big that empty space speeds up sublimation. When purchasing, note that dry ice is cheaper in bulk: Ben’s Dry Ice charges $6/lb for a 10 lb block but only $1.80/lb for 100–140 lbs. This tiered pricing makes dry ice affordable even for individuals shipping many ounces of milk.
| Dry ice block weight | Typical cost per pound (2025) | Typical cooler size (internal) | What it means for you |
| 5 lb block | ~US $3–4/lb | 0.3–0.5 cu ft cooler | Suitable for 12–24 hour shipments; low-cost option for small batches |
| 10 lb block | ~US $2.50–3/lb | 0.5–0.8 cu ft | Keeps milk frozen for 24–48 hours; common choice for overnight shipping |
| 20 lb block | ~US $1.80–2.50/lb | 1–1.5 cu ft cooler | Recommended for international shipments or larger volumes |
| 50 lb bulk purchase | ~US $1.60/lb | custom container | Economical for repeated shipments; consider splitting with other moms |
Practical tips
Budget tip: Buy dry ice locally at grocery stores or dry ice suppliers to avoid shipping fees. University services sell dry ice for as low as $0.84 per pound, though supply may vary.
Safety tip: Always handle dry ice with gloves to avoid skin burns.
Insulation tip: Use a cooler with thick insulation; too much air will accelerate sublimation.
Ventilation tip: Leave a small gap when taping the box to allow carbon dioxide gas to escape. A fully sealed box can burst under pressure.
Label tip: Label the outer box “Dry Ice (UN 1845)” and write the net weight of dry ice. This is required by carriers and ensures safe handling.
Real case: A 12 L EPS cooler with 8 lb of dry ice kept 10 lb of frozen seafood solid for 14 hours during porch delivery A similar setup works for breast milk, so a small dry ice block can keep your milk frozen even if there’s a delay.
How to Prepare and Pack Your Breast Milk with a Dry Ice Block
Direct answer: To ship breast milk safely, freeze it, pack it tightly in an insulated cooler, separate it from the dry ice with packing paper, and leave ventilation. Start by freezing your milk flat in leak proof storage bags so they stack neatly. Wrap the dry ice in newspaper or paper towels before placing it at the bottom or top of the cooler to prevent direct contact with the milk Fill any empty space with crumpled paper to minimize air gaps. Seal the cooler, tape the shipping box loosely and label it according to regulations.
Extended explanation: The packing process is crucial because breast milk expands when frozen. Containers should only be filled two thirds full to prevent bursting. Once frozen, place the milk bags in a thick-walled styrofoam cooler (2–3 inches) and add a layer of packing paper. Dry ice should be wrapped in newspaper and placed on top and around the bags, but it should not touch the plastic directly Leaving space for gas ensures that carbon dioxide can vent; never tape the box airtight. According to the United States Postal Service (USPS), expect five to ten pounds of dry ice to sublimate every 24 hours, so plan your block size accordingly. After sealing, attach hazard labels and “Keep Frozen” stickers. Tracking your package helps catch any delays.
Step by Step Packing Guide
Freeze the milk – Place freshly pumped milk into leak proof storage bags and lay them flat in the freezer. Frozen milk is less vulnerable to spoilage than refrigerated milk.
Prepare the cooler – Choose an insulated cooler with thick walls to maintain temperature. Line the bottom with newspaper or packing paper to create a cushion.
Pack the milk – Arrange the frozen milk bags upright or flat inside the cooler. Avoid empty air pockets by filling gaps with crumpled paper or foam.
Add the dry ice block – Break the block into smaller pieces if necessary and wrap each piece in paper. Place the pieces on top of the milk and along the sides.
Seal the cooler – Close the cooler lid but leave a slight opening or use vented coolers. Tape the shipping box closed but leave some seams untaped for gas venting.
Label and ship – Attach “Dry Ice (Carbon Dioxide, Solid)” and “Human Milk” labels with the weight of the dry ice. For air shipments, include hazard label Class 9 and UN 1845
Choosing the Right Shipping Service
Different carriers have specific requirements for dry ice shipments. FedEx Express requires vented packaging, training for the shipper and caps packages at 200 kg of CO₂ per package UPS allows dry ice for non hazardous goods but the package must display “≤2.5 kg/5.5 lb” for air transport USPS accepts up to 5 lb per mailpiece in domestic air service, while airlines limit carry on dry ice to 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) and require prior approval. Always check your carrier’s latest guidelines and plan for overnight or next day delivery to minimize risk. If shipping internationally, follow International Air Transport Association (IATA) Packing Instruction 954 for vented packaging and hazard labeling
Additional packing tips
Pre freeze and pre chill: Freeze the milk fully and pre chill the cooler before loading to extend dry ice life
Fill voids: Air gaps accelerate sublimation; fill them with newspaper or foam.
Stage pickup late: Schedule the carrier pickup as late in the day as possible so the package moves quickly through the network
Place a temperature probe: For high-value shipments, insert a temperature probe to monitor the internal temperature and ensure quality upon arrival
Coordinate receiving: Ensure that someone will be available to remove the milk from the shipping package and transfer it to a freezer.
Real case: Ben’s Dry Ice notes that a properly sealed package with a dry ice block can keep breast milk frozen for up to 48 hours, but they still recommend overnight or next day service for best quality.
Safety Guidelines and Regulations When Shipping with Dry Ice
Direct answer: Shipping breast milk with dry ice is safe when you follow federal and carrier regulations—vent the package, label it correctly and respect weight limits. The FAA limits each passenger to 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) of dry ice in a carry on or checked bag, and the package must be vented and marked as dry ice. USPS allows up to 5 lb of dry ice per domestic air mailpiece, while FedEx and UPS require hazard labels and training for larger shipments Always get airline or carrier approval when flying with dry ice.
Extended explanation: Dry ice is classified as a hazardous material because it releases carbon dioxide gas, which can build up pressure and displace oxygen. The IATA and Department of Transportation (DOT) require that packages containing dry ice are vented and display a Class 9 hazard label with the net weight and the UN 1845 designation Carriers also limit dry ice per package: UPS allows ≤5.5 lb for air shipments and includes specific labeling instructions FedEx Express permits up to 200 kg per package but requires specialized hazmat training When sending via USPS, you cannot ship internationally and must keep the dry ice under 5 lb per parcel Always include the net weight of dry ice in kilograms, and never ship thawed breast milk because its shelf life declines quickly.
Hazard Labeling and Documentation
Shipping carriers require specific hazard labels:
Label wording: Use “Dry Ice” or “Carbon dioxide, solid” along with the net weight of dry ice and UN 1845
Class 9 hazard label: Affix a 100 × 100 mm Class 9 hazard diamond on the package face where space allows
Vent requirement: Use vented packaging per IATA Packing Instruction 954
Carrier training: Carriers like FedEx require hazmat training for shippers if the dry ice weight exceeds certain thresholds
Airline approval: Notify your airline and request a dry ice sticker at check in; declare the dry ice weight (max 5.5 lb per person).
Tips to Reduce Risk
Wear protective gloves and eye protection when handling dry ice; it can cause frostbite.
Avoid direct contact: Always wrap dry ice in paper to prevent plastic bags from cracking
Ventilation: Never ship dry ice in a sealed glass or metal container; carbon dioxide gas must escape.
Do not ship thawed milk: Ship only frozen milk because thawed milk has a limited shelf life and is more susceptible to spoilage.
Check customs rules: International shipments may require additional documentation for biological materials and may be prohibited in some countries.
Real case: The Points Guy notes that the FAA limit of 5.5 lb per passenger is enforced at airports and you must carry a printed copy of the regulations. Always print or save the rules on your phone to educate TSA agents who may be unfamiliar with them.
Cost Breakdown: What You’ll Spend on a Dry Ice Block and Shipping
Direct answer: Dry ice itself is affordable—expect to pay between $1 and $3 per pound, plus an $8 dry ice surcharge from most carriers. For example, Ben’s Dry Ice sells 10 lb blocks for $6/lb but offers bulk rates of $1.60/lb for orders over 150 lb. University services like Washington University in St Louis sell dry ice for $0.84 per pound. Shipping costs vary by distance: standard overnight delivery ranges from $50 to $150, and packaging (cooler and dry ice) adds $10–$30. Dry ice surcharges from carriers are about $8 per package
Extended explanation: When budgeting, consider four components: (1) the base overnight shipping rate (based on destination, weight and dimensions), (2) the carrier’s dry ice add on fee (≈ $8 per package), (3) the dry ice commodity price ($1–$3 per pound retail), and (4) packaging costs for the cooler and insulation. Specialty services like Milk Stork charge $139 for a 72 oz cooler with overnight shipping, while custom shipping kits from Ben’s Dry Ice (“Mom Pack”) cost $74 for an insulated container and dry ice. If you frequently ship, buying larger quantities of dry ice reduces the per pound cost. Some labs or universities may supply dry ice at lower rates, but availability can be limited.
Cost table for common scenarios
| Scenario | Dry ice weight & cost | Shipping cost (approx.) | Total estimated cost | Practical meaning |
| Short trip (overnight, <100 oz milk) | 5 lb dry ice × $3/lb = $15 | $50–$80 overnight shipping | $65–$95 | Most affordable; ideal for domestic overnight shipments |
| Medium shipment (200–300 oz) | 8–10 lb dry ice × $2.50/lb = $20–$25 | $80–$120 | $100–$145 | Good for 24–48 hour shipping across states |
| Large/international shipment (500+ oz) | 20 lb dry ice × $2/lb = $40 | $120–$150 | $160–$190 | Long distance or international shipping; ensures milk remains frozen |
| Milk Stork service (72 oz cooler) | Included in kit | $139 for kit | $139 | Turn key but expensive |
| DIY Mom Pack (Ben’s Dry Ice) | Block included in $74 kit | $50–$80 | ~$124–$154 | Convenient; includes container, dry ice and labels |
Ways to Save on Shipping Costs
Right size the shipper: Use the smallest cooler that fits your milk; less air reduces the amount of dry ice needed
Mix blocks and pellets: Blocks provide long hold time; pellets fill gaps and offer quick cooling
Pre condition the cooler: Chill the empty cooler before packing; starting cold reduces the amount of dry ice needed
Ship late in the day: Reduces the time your package spends in transit and can reduce dry ice consumption
Hold at location: If possible, ask the carrier to hold the package at a facility near the destination; this shortens last mile delivery and reduces risk
Real case: Danielle Gordon’s 2011 account of shipping milk shows that she paid about $55 for dry ice and packaging and $170 for overnight shipping. By 2025, increased competition and accessible dry ice sources have brought the per pound price down to around $1–$3, making shipping more affordable.
Dry Ice Blocks vs. Gel Packs for Breast Milk Shipping
Direct answer: Dry ice blocks provide colder, longer-lasting cooling than gel packs and are required for shipments that must stay frozen. Gel packs maintain temperatures near refrigeration (4–8 °C) for 4–8 hours, while dry ice maintains sub zero temperatures for up to 72 hours Gel packs don’t require hazardous-material labeling, but they can allow milk to thaw and refreeze, damaging nutrients.
Extended explanation: Dry ice sublimates without creating liquid, making it ideal for shipping “rock-hard frozen” breast milk Gel packs are cheaper and easier to use but only keep milk cool, not frozen, and can leak if punctured. Dry ice shipments must follow IATA and DOT regulations—including venting, Class 9 hazard labels and UN 1845 markings—whereas gel packs have no special regulations In 2025, -20 °C phase change materials (PCMs) offer an alternative; these reusable panels hold sub zero temperatures without releasing CO₂ but are more expensive For shipments where you need milk to remain frozen solid, dry ice is still the gold standard.
Table: Dry Ice vs. Gel Packs Comparison
| Feature | Dry ice | Gel packs | What it means for you |
| Temperature control | Keeps milk frozen | Keeps milk cool but not frozen | Dry ice is necessary for frozen shipments |
| Duration | Long-lasting cooling up to 72 hours | 4–8 hours | Dry ice provides extended protection |
| Compliance | Must comply with IATA/DOT rules and hazard labeling | No special regulations | Gel packs are simpler but less reliable |
| Cost | More expensive per shipment | Less expensive | Gel packs save money for local trips but risk thawing |
Practical situations
Domestic overnight shipping: Use dry ice when shipping frozen milk across states or internationally. For same day hand delivery, gel packs may suffice.
Shipping through postal services: USPS accepts dry ice up to 5 lb per package, but gel packs may be accepted without hazard labels.
Air travel: Airlines limit dry ice to 5.5 lb per passenger. Gel packs are allowed but must be solidly frozen at security checkpoints.
Refrigerated lanes (2–8 °C): Gel packs or 2–8 °C PCMs offer a tight temperature band and avoid overcooling
Ultra cold shipments: -20 °C PCMs or synthetic “dry ice panels” can substitute for dry ice in situations where CO₂ release is undesirable or restricted
Real case: Milkify, a freeze drying service, suggests using gel packs or ice packs for short flights but notes that the FAA allows up to 5.5 lb of dry ice per package when proper labeling is used.
2025 Trends in Breast Milk Shipping Using Dry Ice
Trend overview: The cold chain industry is evolving rapidly. In 2025, advances in packaging technology, sustainability and smart monitoring are reshaping how parents ship breast milk. Reusable coolers and sustainable insulation materials are increasingly replacing single use Styrofoam, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices monitor temperature in real time Alternative cooling methods such as phase change materials (PCMs) and CO₂ free coolants are gaining popularity for eco conscious shipments
Latest developments at a glance
Sustainable packaging: Manufacturers are designing coolers from recycled paper fibers and plant based foams to reduce plastic waste. These materials maintain similar insulation properties while being compostable
Smart shipping solutions: IoT-enabled temperature loggers transmit data to your phone, allowing you to confirm that your milk remains frozen throughout its journey
Alternative cooling methods: PCMs that freeze at –20 °C or –8 °C are used as synthetic dry ice. They offer constant temperatures without gas release and can be reused
Carrier regulations: Carriers continue to refine rules. UPS and FedEx highlight IATA PI 954 compliance, and many carriers add roughly $8 dry ice accessorials per package
Market dynamics: Dry ice costs have risen due to CO₂ shortages; university price lists show an increase from $0.71 to $1.18 per pound in April 2024. Yet, competition among suppliers keeps consumer prices in the $1–$3/lb range.
Market insights
Demand for breast milk shipping has grown with more mothers traveling for work and shipping milk to donors or freeze dry services. Milk Stork and Tempk offer kits with integrated dry ice or PCM cooling, while services like Ben’s Dry Ice deliver mom specific packs. Companies are also exploring carbon neutral shipping by investing in dry ice produced from waste CO₂ and by using returnable coolers. Integration with smartphone apps and carrier tracking will further reduce anxiety for parents shipping milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How much dry ice should I use to ship breast milk?
A 24–48 hour shipment generally requires 5–10 lb of dry ice For true overnight (12–18 hours), small packages may need only 4–6 lb, while larger packages need 8–12 lb Always account for seasonal heat and add 25–50 % more in summer
Q2: Can I ship breast milk internationally with dry ice?
Yes. International shipments must follow IATA Packing Instruction 954, which requires vented packaging, a Class 9 hazard label and declarations of net dry ice weight Check customs rules for human milk, as some countries restrict import of biological material.
Q3: How long can breast milk remain frozen during shipping?
With proper packing and enough dry ice, breast milk can remain frozen for 2–3 days However, carriers recommend overnight or next day delivery to preserve quality.
Q4: Are gel packs sufficient for shipping breast milk?
Gel packs keep milk cool (not frozen) for 4–8 hours and are better suited for short trips or refrigerated shipping lanes. For frozen milk, dry ice is recommended to maintain sub zero temperatures
Q5: What should I do if my package is delayed?
If a delay occurs, track the package and contact the carrier. Dry ice sublimates at 5–10 lb per 24 hours, so plan extra dry ice for potential delays and choose a service that allows pickups at delivery hubs to reduce transit time
Q6: Can I travel with breast milk and dry ice on a plane?
Yes. The FAA allows each passenger to carry up to 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) of dry ice in vented and labeled containers. Airlines may require prior approval and may limit the total dry ice on board, so contact them before your flight. Notify TSA agents about your milk and dry ice at security to ensure smooth screening.
Q7: What if I don’t have access to dry ice?
Look for local supermarkets, welding supply stores or universities that sell dry ice. Some campuses charge about $0.84 per pound. Alternatively, consider phase change panels that freeze at –20 °C; they are reusable but more expensive
Summary & Recommendations
Key takeaways: Using a cheap dry ice block for shipping breast milk offers long lasting, mess free freezing power. Dry ice keeps milk frozen up to 72 hours and is economical, costing about $1–$3 per pound An overnight shipping kit may cost $65–$95 for small batches when you combine shipping fees and dry ice costs. Always freeze the milk, use insulated coolers with thick walls, wrap dry ice in paper and leave ventilation Follow FAA and IATA rules—5.5 lb limit for air travel and proper labeling. For 2025, expect to see more sustainable coolers, smart temperature trackers and alternative –20 °C PCMs
Action guidance:
Plan your shipment: Determine how much milk you’re sending and calculate the dry ice needed (5–10 lb per 24 hours).
Buy supplies: Purchase an affordable dry ice block from a local supplier or service like Ben’s Dry Ice. Select a thick walled insulated cooler.
Pack carefully: Freeze the milk, wrap dry ice in paper, leave room for gas to escape and label the box as “Dry Ice (UN 1845)”
Choose a carrier: Opt for overnight shipping. Confirm carrier regulations and arrange a late-day pickup. Provide the recipient with tracking info.
Monitor and follow up: Use a temperature probe or IoT tracker if possible. When your milk arrives, transfer it immediately to a freezer.
About Tempk
Company product overview: Tempk specializes in cold chain solutions, offering insulated shipping bags, dry ice packs and phase change material coolers. Our dry ice bags are designed to contain solid CO₂ while allowing gas to escape, ensuring safe transit. We prioritize sustainable packaging and smart temperature monitoring to protect sensitive goods—including breast milk—in a reliable, compliant and eco friendly way. Many of our products support –20 °C and –8 °C PCMs, giving you flexibility for different temperature ranges.
Call to action: Whether you need a dry ice kit for your next trip or a reusable cooler for regular shipments, contact Tempk to speak with a cold chain specialist. We’ll help you choose the right solution, calculate your dry ice needs and ensure your breast milk arrives home safely.
