Dry Ice Packs for Shipping: How to Safely Transport Temperature-Sensitive Goods

Shipping temperature-sensitive goods requires a reliable cooling method to preserve product integrity. Dry ice packs have long been the solution to maintain frozen or chilled temperatures during transit. Whether shipping food, pharmaceuticals, or other perishable goods, dry ice plays a crucial role in ensuring that products stay at the correct temperature. This guide explores the benefits, usage, and safety considerations when shipping with dry ice, along with innovations in the field.

Why are dry ice packs necessary for shipping perishable goods?
How do dry ice packs keep goods at the ideal temperature?
What best practices should you follow for safe and effective dry ice shipping?
What safety measures must be considered when using dry ice?

Why Are Dry Ice Packs Necessary for Shipping?

Dry ice is essential for keeping perishable goods at the desired temperature. Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide (CO₂), which sublimates directly from a solid to a gas at -78.5°C (-109.3°F). This ultra-low temperature makes dry ice ideal for maintaining frozen conditions during shipments, especially for products like vaccines, seafood, and biological samples.

Benefits of Dry Ice for Shipping:

Temperature Control: Dry ice maintains freezing conditions during transit.
No Residue: Unlike regular ice, dry ice doesn’t melt into water, which prevents moisture damage to products.
Long-Lasting: Dry ice lasts longer than traditional ice, making it perfect for extended shipping durations.

Characteristic	Description	Why It Matters
Temperature Range	-78.5°C	Keeps items frozen or chilled
Sublimation Rate	5-10 lbs every 24 hours	Determines the amount of dry ice needed
Shipping Regulations	Subject to DOT and IATA rules	Ensures compliance to avoid delays

Example:

A pharmaceutical company reported that using dry ice packs helped their medical supplies maintain the required temperature for over 48 hours, reducing spoilage by 15%.

How Do Dry Ice Packs Work to Keep Goods at the Right Temperature?

Dry ice works by sublimating and absorbing heat. This cooling effect keeps temperature-sensitive items, like vaccines or frozen foods, at the desired temperature during shipping. The dry ice sublimates (turns into gas), which continuously lowers the temperature inside the container, preventing the goods from warming up.

Key Features of Dry Ice Packs:

Sublimation: Dry ice sublimates steadily at a rate of 5-10 pounds every 24 hours.
No Water: As dry ice sublimates, it turns into gas, leaving no water to cause leaks or spoilage.
Long-Term Cooling: Dry ice can provide cooling for 24-72 hours, depending on shipment size and insulation.

Example:

For a 24-hour shipment of meat or seafood, one 10-pound dry ice pack is usually sufficient. For longer shipments, multiple packs or larger quantities are needed.

Best Practices for Using Dry Ice in Shipping

To ensure optimal performance, follow these best practices when shipping with dry ice:

Use Insulated Containers: Pair dry ice with high-quality insulation to extend its cooling effect. Insulated containers help retain the cooling power of dry ice.
Calculate the Right Amount: Use 5-10 pounds of dry ice per 24-hour shipment for every 10-15 pounds of product. Adjust based on the shipment duration.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: Dry ice sublimates into carbon dioxide gas, so always use well-ventilated containers to avoid pressure build-up.

Recommended Action	Why It’s Important
Use Insulated Containers	Keeps products at the correct temperature for longer periods
Calculate the Correct Amount	Prevents overuse or underuse of dry ice
Ensure Ventilation	Prevents dangerous CO₂ gas build-up

Practical Tip:

For shipping frozen foods, consider using foam-insulated containers to extend shelf life by up to 50% when paired with dry ice.

Safety When Handling and Shipping Dry Ice

Handling dry ice requires careful safety measures. Its extremely low temperature can cause severe frostbite, and the sublimation of carbon dioxide gas can pose a suffocation risk if containers are not properly ventilated.

Key Safety Guidelines:

Wear Protective Gear: Always use gloves and goggles when handling dry ice to prevent frostbite and injury.
Proper Labeling: Mark shipments containing dry ice with appropriate hazard labels to notify handlers.
Ensure Ventilation: Never seal containers containing dry ice. Allow CO₂ gas to escape to avoid rupture.

Safety Measure	Recommended Action	Why It’s Important
Wear Protective Gear	Use gloves and goggles	Prevents frostbite and injuries
Label Containers	Clearly mark packages with “Dry Ice”	Alerts handlers to potential risks
Ensure Ventilation	Use vented packaging	Prevents CO₂ gas build-up

Safety Scenario:

A food distributor avoided safety issues by using well-ventilated shipping containers and training staff on proper dry ice handling.

2025 Trends and Developments in Dry Ice Shipping

The dry ice shipping industry continues to evolve. In 2025, new innovations are improving temperature control, safety, and logistics efficiency.

Key Developments:

Smart Temperature Sensors: These devices provide real-time alerts on temperature changes during transit, enhancing safety and ensuring the quality of temperature-sensitive goods.
Blockchain for Traceability: Blockchain technology is being integrated into cold chain logistics, providing transparent tracking of shipments and ensuring temperature integrity.
Advanced Insulation Materials: New lightweight and high-performance insulation materials are reducing dry ice consumption and shipping costs.

Market Insights:

With the rise in demand for frozen foods and pharmaceuticals, dry ice is playing an increasingly crucial role in cold chain logistics. The global market for dry ice is expected to grow substantially by 2025, with dry ice becoming the preferred solution for transporting perishable goods.

FAQ

Q: How much dry ice should I use when shipping frozen goods?
For each 24-hour shipment, use 5-10 pounds of dry ice per 10-15 pounds of product. Adjust the amount based on the shipping duration.

Q: Is dry ice safe for shipping?
Yes, dry ice is safe for shipping if handled correctly. Always use well-ventilated containers and follow safety guidelines.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Dry ice is an indispensable tool for shipping perishable goods. By calculating the right amount of dry ice, ensuring proper packaging and insulation, and following safety regulations, you can ensure that your products stay at the correct temperature and arrive in perfect condition.

Action Steps:

Calculate the right amount of dry ice based on shipment size and duration.
Use insulated containers and ensure proper ventilation.
Follow safety guidelines and keep up with 2025 regulations.

About Tempk

Tempk is a trusted leader in cold chain logistics, specializing in providing high-quality dry ice solutions for the shipping industry. Our extensive experience ensures that your perishable goods are kept at the correct temperature throughout transit, ensuring safe and reliable deliveries.