When mailing temperature-sensitive items like food, medical specimens, ou farmacêuticos, dry ice packs are an essential solution to ensure they remain cold. Learn how to use dry ice packs for mailing in compliance with the latest 2025 regulations and best practices.
How much dry ice do you need for mailing packages?
What are the latest shipping regulations for dry ice in 2025?
How to safely package dry ice for mailing?
Best practices for handling and labeling dry ice shipments
How to avoid CO₂ hazards during dry ice mailing?
How to size dry ice packs for mailing?
How Much Dry Ice Do You Need for Mailing Packages?
Short Answer:
To ship perishables or temperature-sensitive products, usar 2.5 para 3 pounds of dry ice per cubic foot of shipping box volume. This amount typically keeps contents cold for 48–72 hours, depending on box size and external temperature. For longer shipments, increase the dry ice weight.
Expanded Explanation:
Dry ice has a significant advantage over regular ice since it sublimates from solid to gas, releasing substantial energy. It’s the ideal solution for long-distance shipments, especially for items that need to stay frozen or within a specific temperature range.
Dry Ice Sizing for Mailing (Quick Table)
| Shipping Box Size | Gelo Seco (libras) | Hold Time | What This Means for You |
| Small (10″ x 10″ x 10″) | 2–3 lb | ~48–72 hours | Best for small food shipments or medical samples. |
| Medium (16″ x 16″ x 16″) | 5–7 lb | ~48–72 hours | For shipping larger quantities of food, vacinas, or lab specimens. |
| Large (24″ x 24″ x 24″) | 10–15 lb | ~72–96 hours | Suitable for bulk medical shipments, comida, or multiple samples. |
Pro Tip: Adjust dry ice weight based on the outside temperature. A higher ambient temperature will cause dry ice to sublimate faster, so add more ice if shipping during warmer months.
How to Pack Dry Ice for Mailing Safely?
Short Answer:
Always pack dry ice in vented containers to avoid pressure buildup. Ensure the package allows CO₂ gas to escape and use proper labeling for UN 1845 and Class 9. Handle dry ice with insulated gloves to avoid frostbite and use tongs when placing it in the package.
Expanded Explanation:
When packing dry ice, it’s crucial to let the gas escape from the package to avoid dangerous pressure buildup. Follow these safety steps:
Use a vented container: Dry ice sublimates into CO₂ gas, which needs to escape. Use boxes or containers designed for dry ice with vents.
Handle with care: Wear insulated gloves or use tongs, as dry ice is extremely cold (−78.5°C or −109.3°F) and can cause severe frostbite.
Layer correctly: Place dry ice at the top of the items, separated by cardboard, espuma, or bubble wrap.
Dry Ice Mailing Packing Checklist:
Vented cooler or shipping container
Insulated gloves or tongs
Cardboard or foam layers to separate dry ice
Dry ice weight: typically 2.5–3 lb per cubic foot
Proper labeling: UN 1845, Aula 9
Temperature loggers (optional but recommended for sensitive shipments)
What Are the Latest Shipping Regulations for Dry Ice in 2025?
Short Answer:
IATA Packing Instruction 954 (Pi 954) e 49 CFR regulations for dry ice packaging apply for mailing via air transport. Dry ice is classified as Class 9 hazardous goods and requires proper labeling, venting, and weight limits.
Expanded Explanation:
As of 2025, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (PONTO) have strict regulations for shipping dry ice, incluindo:
Proper Labeling: Apply the UN 1845 label, indicating “Dry Ice (Carbon Dioxide, Solid)” and the Class 9 Hazardous Materials label (100mm square). Net weight of dry ice in kg must be clearly marked.
Vented Packaging: Ensure that packaging allows CO₂ gas to escape to avoid dangerous pressure buildup.
Shipping Documentation: For air transport, a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods is required for quantities over 200 kg of dry ice.
How Does Dry Ice Compare to Gel Packs for Mailing?
Short Answer:
Dry ice is much colder than gel packs, making it ideal for long-duration shipping. Gel packs are easier to handle and don’t require venting, making them a safer option for smaller or short-duration shipments.
Expanded Explanation:
Dry ice is perfect for shipments that require frozen conditions for extended periods (48+ horas), like vaccines or medical supplies. Pacotes de gel, por outro lado, are more suitable for shorter-term shipments (1–2 days) and are safer and easier to handle.
Gelo seco vs.. Gel Packs for Mailing
| Recurso | Gelo Seco | Pacotes de gel |
| Temperatura | −78.5°C (−109.3°F) | ~0°C (32°F) |
| Duração | 48 hours to 96 horas | 1–2 days |
| Handling | Requires gloves, tongs | No special handling required |
| Best For | Long-term frozen shipments | Short-term cooled shipments |
Perguntas frequentes
Q1: How much dry ice do I need for mailing food?
Use 2–3 pounds per cubic foot for shipments up to 48 horas. Adjust based on shipping time and temperature.
Q2: Can I use dry ice for mailing medical supplies?
Sim, dry ice is commonly used for mailing medical supplies. Ensure proper venting, labeling (UN1845), and handling.
Q3: How do I label a package with dry ice?
Mark the package with UN 1845 and the Class 9 hazard label. Include the net weight of dry ice in kg outside the label border.
Resumo e recomendações
Key Points:
Dry ice is the most effective solution for shipping perishable goods. Ensure proper packing, correct sizing, and compliance with regulations. Always handle dry ice safely and follow the latest shipping guidelines for 2025.
PRÓXIMOS PASSOS:
Calculate your dry ice needs based on package size and shipping duration.
Use vented containers and always label packages correctly.
Keep your shipments properly insulated to maintain temperature.
Sobre Tempk
Tempk specializes in cold chain packaging solutions, providing dry ice and temperature-controlled products. Our solutions meet regulatory standards, ensuring that your goods remain at optimal temperatures during transit.
