Buzz
To ship perishable items, ensure proper packaging, compliance with regulations, and timely delivery to prevent deterioration. Perishable items include dairy, seafood, meat, plants, and more, susceptible to environmental conditions.
Essential Steps
Preparation
Verify Shipping Eligibility
Homemade Canned or Jarred Foods
Notify Recipient in Advance
Choose Shipping Method Wisely
Keeping Items Cold During Transit
Avoid Refrigeration-Dependent Items
Prepare Cold Food for Shipping
Utilize Gel Ice Packs
Use Dry Ice for Frozen Items
Include a Protective Liner
Packaging Perishables
Select a Suitable Container
Include Clear Instructions
Pack Baked Goods for Freshness
Ensure Proper Internal Packaging
Seal the Box Securely
Address and Label the Box
Useful Tips
- If sending perishable food through a mail order company, opt for overnight delivery and request inclusion of dry ice or frozen gel pack.
- Consider contacting the recipient to confirm receipt, especially if using tracked mail.
Important Warnings
- Do not ship perishable items without proper refrigeration. Ensure compliance with federal regulations and FDA guidelines.
- Failure to adhere to regulations may result in detention of the package by FDA for up to 30 days.
- Avoid using brown paper packages tied with string as they may tear and pose sorting issues.
- Never ship or consume canned food with swollen or damaged cans.
Essential Supplies
Preparing Cold Items
- Foil or plastic wrap
- Dry ice or frozen gel packs
- Marker
- Safety gloves
- Goggles
- Sealable plastic bags
- Cardboard
- Liner bag
- Rubber band
Boxing Up Perishables
- Foil or plastic wrap
- Wax paper
- Cookie tin
- Strong cardboard box and/or insulated cooler
- Copy paper
- Pen or printer
- Marker
- Plastic containers
- Plastic wrap
- Foil
- Plastic foam peanuts
- Bubble wrap
- Bagged foam
- Instapak
- Shipping tape
- Labels
