Dry Ice Shipping

Dry ice is classified by DOT and IATA as a “miscellaneous” hazard, Class 9. Dry ice is considered hazardous during transportation for the following reasons:

  1. Explosion hazard: Dry ice releases a large volume of carbon dioxide gas as it sublimates. If packaged in a container that does not allow for release of the gas, it may explode, causing personal injury or property damage.
  2. Suffocation hazard: A large volume of carbon dioxide gas emitted in a confined space may displace oxygen and create an oxygen deficient environment.
  3. Contact hazard: Dry ice is a cryogenic material that causes severe frostbite upon contact with skin.  

Packing Guidelines for Dry Ice 

Do not use plastics that can be rendered brittle or permeable by the temperature of dry ice. Use commercially available packaging systems intended for dry ice shipments.  Packages must allow for release of carbon dioxide gas. Dry ice must never be sealed in a container with an airtight seal such as container with a threaded lid or plastic cooler.  The maximum allowable net quantity of dry ice allowed per package is 200 kg 

Required Markings for Dry Ice 

Markings and hazard labels for dry ice are required  when  the  package  is  sent  by  air,  water,  or when transported by commercial carriers and couriers by land (ex: Fed Ex, Airborne Express, etc).  The US Postal Service will NOT transport dry ice. 

The labels and markings required for dry ice are used  in addition  to any other labels and markings required for other hazardous materials in the package.

  1. Class 9 Miscellaneous hazard label
  2. Proper shipping name and UNID Number:   “Carbon dioxide, solid” or “Dry ice” and UN1845
  3. Net quantity of dry ice 

diagram of dry ice shipping box

Airway Bill for Dry Ice 

Remember to “declare” the dry ice on your airway bill. Dry ice is considered a “Dangerous Good”, however you do not need to complete a “Shippers Declaration” form if the only hazardous material in the package is the dry ice. 

sample fedex shipping label for dry ice