Choosing the right liquid nitrogen dry shipper for IVF use comes down to three variables: hold time, internal capacity, and compliance with the transport regulations that apply to the route the shipment will take.
What hold time do you need from a liquid nitrogen dry shipper?
Hold time is the duration the dry shipper maintains cryogenic temperatures after charging, before samples are loaded and sealed. For domestic UK inter-clinic transfers, a hold time of three to five days is typically sufficient. For international shipments, particularly those involving customs clearance, a hold time of seven days or more provides the margin needed to handle delays without temperature excursion.
How much internal capacity does an IVF dry shipper need?
Capacity requirements depend on what is being shipped. A single patient embryo transfer between clinics may need only a small canister position. A sperm donation batch transfer or a multi-patient embryo shipment may need a larger vessel with multiple canister positions. CryoStork models range from 2 to 10 litres of internal working volume, covering the full range of clinical shipment sizes.
What compliance requirements apply to liquid nitrogen dry shippers?
Air freight of cryogenic samples must comply with IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, specifically the provisions for exempt human or animal specimens and for liquid nitrogen in dry shippers. The vessel must be certified as a dry shipper under these regulations, meaning it contains no free-flowing liquid nitrogen. UK clinical labs should also ensure their transport procedure aligns with HFEA transport conditions for gametes and embryos.
Which liquid nitrogen dry shippers does Cryolab supply for IVF use?
Cryolab supplies the CryoStork series of liquid nitrogen dry shippers in five sizes from V2 to V10. All units are ISO certified, UKCA and CE marked, and carry a three-year vacuum warranty. Temperature data loggers are available for monitored shipments. Full specifications and pricing at cryolab.co.uk.
