How to Ship with Dry Ice via UPS

Dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) is a hazardous material for shipping. UPS accepts it with proper packaging, labeling, and documentation. Here is what you need to know.

What Is Dry Ice and Why Is It Regulated?

Dry ice in styrofoam cooler being placed inside a cardboard shipping box

Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide at -109.3°F (-78.5°C). It sublimates (turns directly from solid to gas), which creates pressure inside containers. This makes it a Class 9 hazardous material for shipping purposes. If packaged incorrectly, the pressure can cause containers to rupture or explode.

UPS Rules for Dry Ice

Accepted via UPS Ground and UPS Air services with proper documentation
Must be packed in an EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam container inside a sturdy corrugated cardboard box
Do not seal airtight — the box must allow gas to vent (go light on the tape)
Must be labeled with the appropriate Class 9 hazardous material label
For air shipments: must comply with IATA Packing Instructions 954
International dry ice shipments require a signed International Special Commodities (ISC) contract with UPS
Estimated sublimation: 5–10 lbs per 24 hours (depends on foam density and temperature)

Packaging Best Practices

Keep contents separate from the dry ice — use dividers or wrapping
Use an EPS foam container for insulation
Place the foam container inside a corrugated cardboard box
Add enough dry ice for transit time plus 24 hours as a safety margin
Do not use glass containers (can crack from cold)
Mark and label per hazmat regulations

Handling Safety

Dry ice can cause severe frostbite on contact with skin. Handlers should:

Wear insulated gloves (never bare hands)
Wear safety goggles to protect eyes
Work in a well-ventilated area — CO2 gas can displace oxygen in enclosed spaces
Never store dry ice in an airtight container

What About FedEx and USPS?

FedEx: Accepts dry ice with proper hazmat documentation. Requires a FedEx dangerous goods account for regular shipments. Limited quantities may be accepted from individuals with proper packaging and labeling.

USPS: Dry ice is prohibited in USPS mail except under specific conditions for diagnostic medical specimens with prior approval.

We are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. This information is for educational purposes and reflects carrier policies as we understand them. Laws vary by state and change frequently. Always consult the carrier directly and review applicable federal and state regulations before shipping regulated items.

Reference: UPS official dry ice shipping policy →

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to the most common questions about packaging, carriers, pricing, and what to expect.

Can I ship frozen food with dry ice through UPS?

Yes — UPS accepts dry ice for frozen food shipments when properly packed. Use an EPS foam container, enough dry ice to last the transit time plus extra, and proper labeling. Go light on tape to allow gas to vent.

How much dry ice do I need?

Plan for 5–10 lbs of dry ice to sublimate every 24 hours. Add extra for safety. The exact amount depends on the foam density, outside temperature, and transit time.

Can I ship dry ice internationally?

UPS accepts international dry ice shipments with an International Special Commodities (ISC) contract. IATA regulations apply for air shipments.

Do I need a hazmat certification to ship dry ice?

For small quantities (under 5.5 lbs / 2.5 kg per package for air, or under 440 lbs for ground), no formal certification is needed — but you must follow packaging, labeling, and documentation rules. Larger quantities require training.

Shipping with dry ice? We can help with packaging supplies and advice — stop in and ask.

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