Our Complete Guide on How to Ship Breast Milk

Shipping breast milk safely and efficiently is a major concern for many new parents — especially for intended parents in surrogacy arrangements or for mothers returning to work or travel. Breast milk is precious. It’s not just food; it’s immunity, comfort, and bonding in a bottle. But how do you get it from Point A to Point B without compromising its quality?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to ship breast milk across the United States, with practical tips, clear do’s and don’ts, and important government resources to help you stay compliant and confident.

Why Ship Breast Milk?

There are many reasons people choose to ship breast milk. For surrogates and intended parents, it may be part of their post-birth agreement. For working moms, it’s a way to provide milk while on business trips. And for families using donor milk, shipping is the only bridge between availability and need.

Whatever your reason, one thing remains the same: the milk must stay safe and viable through the shipping process.

Steps to Shipping Breast Milk

1. Pump and Store the Milk Correctly

• Always wash hands thoroughly before pumping.
• Use clean, BPA-free containers or milk storage bags.
• Label bags with the date and time of expression.
• Freeze milk immediately if it won’t be used within 4 days.

2. Freeze the Milk

• Frozen milk is the safest option for shipping.
• Freeze it flat (like books) so it stacks easily.
• Ensure all bags are sealed tightly with no leaks.

3. Package for Transport

• Use an insulated cooler or thermal shipping box.
• Inside, pack:
– Frozen breast milk in sealed storage bags or containers
– Dry ice or gel packs (dry ice is better for long distances)
– Crumpled newspaper or bubble wrap for insulation
– Leak-proof liner or bag inside the cooler

4. Label Everything

• If using dry ice, label the package "Contains Dry Ice" and include the net weight.
• Follow the carrier's labeling requirements carefully.

5. Choose a Fast Shipping Option

• Use overnight or priority shipping.
• Avoid shipping on Fridays or before holidays.
• Ask UPS, FedEx, or USPS for medical/perishable shipping options.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shipping Breast Milk

Do:

✅ Use FDA-approved milk storage containers.
✅ Freeze milk solid before shipping.
✅ Choose next-day or express delivery.
✅ Inform the recipient in advance.
✅ Consider temperature-controlled couriers.

Don’t:

❌ Don’t use regular ice — it melts too fast.
❌ Don’t refreeze thawed milk.
❌ Don’t ship during extreme weather.
❌ Don’t assume carriers know what to do — give clear instructions.
❌ Don’t skimp on insulation.

Handling Breast Milk Upon Delivery

Inspect the Packaging

• Ensure milk is still frozen or below 40°F.
• Check for damage or leakage.

Store Immediately

• Refreeze if still solid.
• If partially thawed, refrigerate and use within 24 hours.
• If it smells sour or looks off, discard it.

Stay Informed

FDA Guidelines
CDC Recommendations
Food Safety Info

Breast milk is a biologically active substance. It deserves the same care as medical samples or vaccines.

Legal & Safety Considerations

If you’re shipping breast milk as part of a surrogacy agreement, be sure your contract outlines:

• Frequency of shipments
• Who covers costs
• Milk storage and handling responsibilities
• Duration of milk provision

Be aware that shipping with dry ice may be regulated. For rules, visit the U.S. Department of Transportation site.

Always check local laws and airline policies if you’re flying with breast milk.

Conclusion

Shipping breast milk isn’t complicated — but it’s not something you want to “wing.” With proper planning, the right materials, and a little science-backed care, you can send liquid gold across the country safely.

Whether you’re a surrogate, a new mom, or an intended parent, knowing how to ship breast milk gives peace of mind and ensures your baby (or your client’s baby) gets the best nourishment possible.

Need support or want to include milk shipping in your surrogacy plan? Our agency is here to guide you — from contracts to couriers.