Cryoshipping might sound like something from a sci-fi film, but in reality, it’s a highly specialised – and crucial – part of modern fertility and biomedical science. It’s the process of transporting frozen biological materials, such as embryos, sperm, oocytes (eggs), pharmaceutical substances, or even animal biomaterials, under ultra-low temperatures using medical-grade containers called dewars (also known as dry shippers).
What is Cryoshipping?
In the simplest terms, cryoshipping is the transportation of frozen biomaterials inside a dewar – a specially designed, insulated container that can maintain cryogenic temperatures of around -196°C. This is the same technology used in IVF clinics worldwide to preserve reproductive materials for fertility treatment.
When it comes to IVF cryoshipping, there’s no room for error. You can’t just pack embryos in dry ice and hope for the best. The only way to safely transport cryopreserved samples is by using EU-regulated medical containers that comply with the EU Tissue Directives 2004/23/EC, 2006/17/EC, and 2006/86/EC. These strict standards ensure the materials remain safe, stable, and viable throughout the entire journey.
Why Cryoshipping Is So Important
Transporting reproductive material isn’t as simple as sending a parcel overseas. These are living biological samples that demand absolute precision and care. Here’s why cryoshipping is non-negotiable for IVF treatments:
- Temperature Control
Cryopreserved samples must remain at cryogenic temperatures to prevent cell damage or degradation. Dewars use liquid nitrogen vapour to maintain a constant environment of around -196°C, ensuring embryos, eggs, or sperm stay completely frozen from one clinic to another. - Sample Integrity
Even a minor fluctuation in temperature can compromise sample viability. Proper cryoshipping ensures that biological materials remain intact and ready for successful fertilisation or implantation. - Expert Handling
Specialist couriers play a huge role here. They’re trained to handle dewars, navigate airport security, avoid X-ray exposure, and ensure the samples remain under continuous supervision – often using a hand-carry method from departure to arrival.
How Cryoshipping Works
Here’s what typically happens behind the scenes during a cryo transport:
- Clinic Coordination – The embryologist at the sending clinic carefully prepares and loads the cryopreserved materials into the dewar.
- Specialised Equipment – A dry shipper (essentially a vacuum-sealed dewar) charged with liquid nitrogen vapour keeps samples at the required temperature.
- Courier Service – A professional courier transports the dewar, often hand-carried on flights, to ensure continuous control and avoid exposure to temperature changes or radiation.
- Monitoring & Tracking – Many couriers use temperature loggers and real-time GPS tracking, giving both clinics and patients peace of mind throughout the journey.
- Regulatory Compliance – The service provider handles all international documentation, customs requirements, and compliance with EU and national health regulations.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Cryoshipping Service
If you’re planning to transport frozen IVF materials, choosing the right courier is critical. Here’s what to look out for:
- Professional Couriers: Always use a company with proven experience, ideally with a 100% success rate and positive clinic references.
- Real-time Updates: Look for couriers who offer direct communication and live tracking throughout transit.
- X-ray Exemptions: Ensure the samples are never X-rayed during customs checks – radiation can irreparably damage embryos and sperm.
- Regulatory Expertise: Different countries have different requirements, so make sure your courier is experienced with international compliance and logistics.
Cryoshipping might not be something most people think about when starting their fertility journey, but it’s one of the most important steps in ensuring success. With the right equipment, expert couriers, and strict adherence to medical standards, it’s entirely possible to transport embryos and other biomaterials safely across the world – giving hopeful parents the best possible chance of a successful outcome.
