Finding a cheap dry ice block for shipping isn’t just about price — you need to balance cost, performance and safety. Dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) keeps frozen goods below – 109.3°F (– 78.5°C) and is perfect for shipping ice cream, seafood and pharmaceuticals, but the wrong block can ruin your shipment or violate regulations. This guide explains how to choose, use and save on dry ice blocks in 2025, covering pricing, sizing rules, safety, alternative options and the latest cold chain trends.
What makes a dry ice block effective for shipping frozen goods?
How much dry ice do you need and how much will it cost?
What safety and regulatory rules apply when shipping dry ice blocks?
When should you choose gel packs instead of dry ice, and what are hybrid options?
Where can you buy cheap dry ice blocks and what are typical prices?
What 2025 trends are shaping dry ice supply, sustainability and cold chain logistics?
What Is a Dry Ice Block and Why Do You Need It for Shipping?
Dry ice basics
Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide that sublimates directly into gas instead of melting into liquid. It maintains an ultra low surface temperature of about –109.3°F (–78.5°C), making it ideal for keeping products frozen during transport. Because it sublimates (turns into gas) instead of melting, there is no residual water, reducing the risk of soggy packages. Dry ice provides precise temperature control, which is why it is commonly used for shipping frozen food, pharmaceuticals and biological samples.
Benefits of using dry ice blocks for shipping frozen goods
Shipping with dry ice blocks offers unique benefits:
Extended freezing time: Dry ice’s extremely low temperature keeps products frozen for longer than gel packs, slowing bacterial growth and extending shelf life.
Non toxic and residue free: Dry ice sublimates into carbon dioxide gas, leaving no liquid residue that might contaminate the product.
Reduced packaging requirements: Because it leaves no liquid, you don’t need absorbent liners or extra secondary packaging.
Versatility: Dry ice can be used in air, ground and ocean freight and is suitable for foods, pharmaceuticals and industrial shipments.
Despite these benefits, dry ice is regulated as a hazardous material and requires careful sizing and labeling. The next sections explain how to choose the right amount and minimize cost.
Visual representation
This illustration shows a block of dry ice emitting vapor inside an insulated box with a package. The icons suggest cold chain logistics, indicating that dry ice ensures frozen goods stay within safe temperatures during transit.
Table: Dry ice vs. gel packs at a glance
| Cooling Method | Typical Temperature Range | Residue | Average Cost (per lb/pack) | Regulatory Burden | Best Use |
| Dry ice block | ≈ –109°F (–78.5°C) | None (sublimates into gas) | ~US$1.60–3.00 per lb plus ~$8 per shipment fee | Class 9 hazardous label; must mark UN1845 | Shipping frozen meats, ice cream, vaccines, biological samples |
| Gel pack | 32–35°F (0–2°C) | Liquid residue possible | US$2–5 per pack | No special regulations | Chilled foods, pharmaceuticals; reusable |
| Water ice pack | 32–40°F (0–4°C) | Water residue | Low (<US$1 per pack) | No special regulations | Short duration shipments where freezing is undesirable |
How Much Dry Ice Do You Need? Sizing and Cost Factors
Dry ice blocks aren’t one size fits all. Too little and your product may thaw; too much and you waste money or risk regulatory issues. Here’s how to get it right.
Rule of thumb sizing
According to the Insulated Products Corporation, for overnight shipments you should use half the weight of your product in dry ice; equal weight of dry ice and product provides up to 48 hours of freeze, and for 72 hour lanes you may need 1.5 times the product weight in dry ice. The company also suggests using 5–10 pounds of dry ice per day for mid size shippers, depending on container insulation and ambient temperature. Dense EPS or vacuum insulated panels (VIPs) require less dry ice; thin corrugated boxes or hot routes need more.
Cost drivers for dry ice in 2025
A detailed pricing analysis by Tempk identifies the major cost levers in 2025:
Price per pound: Retail dry ice generally falls between US$1.60 and US$3.00 per pound. Bulk buying through suppliers can lower this rate.
Carrier fees: Many air carriers charge a flat dry ice fee of roughly US$8 per package.
Sublimation rate: Plan on 5–10 pounds of dry ice per 24 hours of transit depending on insulation and ambient heat.
Insulation quality: Upgrading from thin corrugated walls to high R value EPS or VIP insulation often costs less than shipping extra pounds of dry ice.
Supplier tiers: Ordering larger quantities (e.g., 100–lb blocks) reduces per pound costs; partnering with another shipper can help reach tiered pricing.
Example cost calculations
The same Tempk analysis provides sample budgets that illustrate how costs add up:
Example A (2 day air, EPS) – 6 lb dry ice × $1.80 = $10.80 ice + ~$8 carrier fee + $3 materials = approximately $21–23.
Example B (4 day ground, corrugate) – 18 lb dry ice × $1.60 = $28.80 + up to $8 fee + $3.50 materials = $32–40.
Example C (3 day air, hot route) – 29 lb dry ice × $2.20 = $64 + $8 fee + $3.50 materials ≈ $75. Upgrading insulation can reduce the required dry ice mass and total cost.
Understanding price per pound and hidden fees
Some suppliers sell 50 pound blocks for about $60 (US$1.20/lb) or half blocks (≈25 lb) for $35. University purchasing programs occasionally offer dry ice at $0.84 per pound, but this price is usually limited to lab use and isn’t available for commercial shipping. Always verify whether quoted prices include packaging, handling, and special hazardous materials surcharges. Some vendors also charge extra for weekend delivery or remote locations.
A dry ice calculator can help you right size your order. The Tempk guide recommends a simple formula:
Estimated dry ice (lb) = Base × Transit Days × Insulation Factor × Ambient Factor
Where Base is 5 lb/day for EPS or 8 lb/day for corrugate, Insulation Factor reflects wall thickness (1.0 for EPS, 1.5–1.8 for corrugate) and Ambient Factor accounts for weather (1.0 for mild, 1.2 for hot, 1.3 for heat waves). This estimator gives a starting point; use a data logger on an actual shipment to validate your packout and adjust as needed.
Practical tips
Pre freeze payloads: Starting with a fully frozen payload reduces the load on dry ice. For hot lanes, pre freezing plus a 20–30% dry ice buffer is recommended.
Split ice placement: Distribute dry ice along the walls and lid to minimize hot spots.
Combine with gel packs: Adding gel packs around a dry ice block can slow sublimation and extend coverage.
Validate: Run a timed test with a data logger and adjust weight accordingly.
Safety, Storage and Regulations for Shipping Dry Ice Blocks
Handling hazards
Dry ice is extremely cold. Contact with bare skin can cause severe frostbite; always use tongs and wear insulated gloves. Never let dry ice come into direct contact with the product; wrap it in newspaper or corrugated sheets and leave enough headspace for gas expansion.
Storage and disposal
Store dry ice in a well ventilated, insulated container (cooler or specialized box). Do not store it in an airtight container — sublimation creates CO₂ gas that can build pressure and cause the container to rupture. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources, and always handle with gloves or tongs. To dispose of leftover dry ice, let it sublimate in a ventilated area; never dispose of dry ice in a sink or other fixture because the extreme cold can damage plumbing.
Regulatory considerations
Dry ice is classified as a hazardous material in the United States. For non medical shipments, packages containing more than 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) of dry ice must comply with Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR) or International Air Transportation Association (IATA) rules. Shipments under this threshold require only minimal markings, provided the contents are not otherwise hazardous. Key labeling requirements include:
Mark the package as “Carbon Dioxide, solid” or “Dry Ice.”
Include the UN number (UN1845) and net weight in kilograms (e.g., 6.0 kg).
Apply a Class 9 hazardous material label on a vertical side of the package.
Use vented packaging and leave 10–15% headspace to allow gas to escape. Do not tape over vents.
Failure to follow these rules can lead to fines, rejected shipments or injury. When in doubt, consult your carrier’s dangerous goods manual.
Dry Ice Blocks vs. Gel Packs and Other Alternatives
Comparing cooling agents
Dry ice isn’t always the best option. Gel packs, water packs and reusable phase change materials (PCMs) provide chilled temperatures without freezing. The Relocalize Buyer’s Guide summarises the trade offs: gel packs maintain 2–8°C temperatures for 24–48 hours and are non toxic but can leak if punctured; water packs cost less but have lower thermal mass; reusable packs are durable but require return logistics. Dry ice offers extremely low temperatures and longer cooling but is expensive and regulated.
When gel packs are the better choice
Gel or water packs are suitable when you need to keep products chilled (2–8°C) rather than frozen, such as for fresh produce, chocolate or some pharmaceuticals. They have no hazardous classification, so there’s no need for UN labels or hazmat training. Gel packs are also reusable and don’t require special disposal.
According to Coldkeepers’ 2025 article, the primary disadvantages of dry ice include the risk of over cooling sensitive goods, rapid sublimation (often 12–24 hours of effective life) and added expenses due to special handling and regulatory requirements. Gel packs avoid these issues and are therefore recommended for customers unaccustomed to handling dry ice or shipping non frozen products.
Hybrid packouts and alternative technologies
Combining dry ice with gel packs or PCMs can create a staged cooling profile: gel packs help maintain chilled temperatures after dry ice sublimates, reducing the risk of thawing and prolonging coverage. Hybrid packouts are common for shipping vaccines and cell therapies, where carriers require both deep freeze and chilled phases during transit.
Other emerging alternatives include mechanical refrigeration units (active containers) and improved vacuum insulation panels (VIPs). Active containers provide extended temperature control without dry ice but come at higher rental costs. New bio based PCMs deliver narrow temperature ranges (e.g., 2–8°C or 15–25°C) and are being used to reduce dry ice consumption in pharmaceutical logistics.
Where to Buy Cheap Dry Ice Blocks and Typical Prices
Price examples from real suppliers
Prices vary by supplier, region and quantity. Here are some examples:
Ice Factory – sells dry ice blocks (approximately 50 lb) for $60, half blocks for $35, 3 inch slices for $24, and 1 inch slices for $10. Pellets are $1.50 per pound.
University supplier (Washington University, St. Louis) – sells dry ice for $0.84 per pound for laboratory use (limited to internal users).
Typical retail range – US$1.60–3.00 per pound plus an $8 dry ice fee per shipment.
Buying considerations
Choose reliable suppliers. Specialty dry ice companies or industrial gas suppliers maintain consistent quality and follow FDA approved practices. Avoid unfamiliar vendors on online marketplaces, as sublimation during transit could leave you with less ice than paid for.
Ask about minimum orders and shipping charges. Many suppliers require a 10–lb minimum and add shipping based on distance or service level.
Order in bulk or partner with neighbors. Supplier tier pricing can reduce costs when you buy more; splitting a larger order among nearby businesses reduces per pound costs.
Check local availability. Some grocery stores, party suppliers and hardware stores sell small quantities of dry ice, but prices may be higher and supply inconsistent.
Cost saving tips
Improve insulation. Upgrading to higher R value boxes reduces dry ice mass and shipping weight.
Plan shipments for cooler months or overnight lanes. Lower ambient temperatures reduce sublimation and may allow you to use less dry ice.
Use hybrid or PCM solutions. Where freezing is not required, phase change materials can reduce or replace dry ice, eliminating hazmat fees.
Negotiate rates and fees. For regular shipments, negotiate dry ice pricing and carrier surcharges. Review contracts quarterly to capture market changes.
2025 Trends in Dry Ice and Cold Chain Logistics
Market dynamics and stressors
The global dry ice market faces unprecedented pressure from supply constraints, cost volatility and sustainability demands. ThermoSafe’s 2025 industry review notes that dry ice consumption has been climbing about 5 % per year, while CO₂ supply has grown only about 0.5 % annually. This mismatch creates periodic shortages and price spikes up to 300 % during supply crunches. The market was valued at US$1.54 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$2.73 billion by 2032 (CAGR 7.4 %).
Sustainability pressures further tighten availability: CO₂ used for dry ice is increasingly diverted to carbon capture and sequestration projects, forcing suppliers to explore alternative sources.
Industry responses and innovations
Localized production hubs: Manufacturers are building more regional facilities to reduce transport losses and better match local demand. Some are capturing CO₂ emissions on site at food processing plants to produce dry ice more sustainably.
Hybrid cooling strategies: Shippers are mixing dry ice with phase change materials and improving insulation to stretch each pound further. Long term supply contracts are replacing spot purchases, giving priority to large food and pharma shippers during shortages.
Bio based CO₂ sourcing: Bioethanol plants capture CO₂ released during fermentation and convert it into food grade dry ice, creating a lower carbon supply chain. In the UK, one plant supplies 30–60 % of the nation’s CO₂, illustrating both the potential and risks of concentrated bio based production.
Emerging alternatives
With dry ice shortages and sustainability concerns, alternatives are gaining traction:
Gel packs and PCMs – offer stable chilled temperatures (2–8°C) and avoid hazmat regulation.
Mechanical refrigeration – active containers powered by batteries or external sources are used in pharmaceutical air freight, though they cost more.
Improved insulation – vacuum panels and curbside recyclable materials reduce dry ice usage and environmental impact.
Sector specific trends
Food & meat processing: Shippers are using thinner slices and pellets for rapid cooling on processing lines, while large blocks remain preferred for bulk transport. Investments in better insulated boxes extend hold times and minimize sublimation.
Pharmaceuticals & labs: Highly controlled shipments of biologics, vaccines and gene therapies are testing barrier technologies to slow CO₂ gas release and using real time monitoring to protect cargo. For less critical medicines, reusable PCM shippers are reducing dry ice reliance.
Industrial applications: Dry ice blasting contractors are locking in long term supply contracts or investing in local pelletizing capacity to avoid spot shortages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does a cheap dry ice block last when shipping frozen food?
A 10–20 lb block typically lasts 12–24 hours in thin corrugate or up to 48 hours in dense EPS containers. Plan around 5–10 lb per day depending on insulation and ambient temperature.
Q2: Is it cheaper to use dry ice or gel packs for shipping?
Dry ice costs US$1.60–3.00 per pound plus handling fees and requires Class 9 labeling. Gel packs cost US$2–5 per pack, are reusable and have no hazmat rules. Use gel packs for chilled shipments; choose dry ice for shipments requiring temperatures below –18 °C.
Q3: How should I dispose of dry ice after shipping?
Allow leftover dry ice to sublimate in a well ventilated area, away from children and pets. Never place dry ice in a sink or enclosed space since the extreme cold can damage fixtures and CO₂ buildup can displace oxygen.
Q4: Can I ship more than 5.5 lb of dry ice without hazmat training?
No. US regulations require shipments containing more than 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) of dry ice to comply with 49 CFR or IATA guidelines, including labeling and documentation. Under that limit, only minimal markings are needed.
Q5: Where can I buy cheap dry ice blocks?
Industrial suppliers often provide the best value. For example, Ice Factory sells 50 lb blocks for $60 and half blocks for $35. University purchasing programs may offer prices around $0.84 per pound, but they are usually limited to internal use. Always check for minimum order quantities and carrier fees.
Summary and Recommendations
Understand your temperature needs. Dry ice blocks are indispensable for shipments requiring temperatures below –18 °C, but gel or water packs suffice for chilled shipments.
Size and cost carefully. Apply the 5–10 lb/day heuristic and adjust for insulation and climate. Expect retail prices around US$1.60–3.00 per pound plus fees.
Follow safety and regulatory rules. Wear insulated gloves, store in vented containers, and label packages with UN1845 when necessary.
Consider alternatives and hybrid strategies. Gel packs, phase change materials and improved insulation can reduce dry ice use and costs.
Stay informed about market trends. Supply constraints and sustainability pressures may affect dry ice availability; diversify your cold chain strategy by exploring local suppliers and long term contracts.
Action Plan
Assess product requirements. Determine whether your goods need frozen or chilled temperatures.
Estimate dry ice weight. Use the formula (Base × days × insulation × ambient) as a starting point and conduct a test run with a data logger.
Source from reputable suppliers. Compare local dry ice distributors, industrial gas companies and specialty suppliers. Verify pricing includes fees and ask about bulk discounts.
Upgrade insulation where feasible. Investing in better boxes may save more than the extra dry ice required.
Document compliance. Prepare labels, UN numbers and headspace requirements before shipping to avoid delays and penalties.
About Tempk
Tempk (Shanghai Huizhou Industrial Co.) is a cold chain packaging specialist headquartered in Shanghai with multiple global facilities. The company designs and manufactures gel ice packs, freezer bricks, insulated backpacks, VIP boxes and pallet covers for food, pharmaceutical and biological shipments. With a focus on research and innovation, Tempk develops reusable and recyclable cold chain products and offers custom solutions for major pharmaceutical companies. By combining high R value insulation with PCM technology, Tempk helps clients reduce dry ice usage while maintaining product integrity.
Next step: Contact Tempk’s team to discuss your specific shipping needs and explore cost effective, sustainable solutions for your cold chain operations.
