What Are Dry Shippers and How They Keep Samples Safe


When biological samples need to move between labs, clinics, or research facilities, keeping them frozen and secure is non-negotiable. The challenge is doing that safely especially during air or long-distance transport without risking leaks or contamination.

That’s exactly what a Dry Shipper is built for.

What Is a Dry Shipper?

A Dry Shipper is a specialised cryogenic container used to transport biological materials at ultra-low temperatures. Unlike standard liquid nitrogen (LN₂) tanks that hold free liquid, a Dry Shipper absorbs LN₂ into a porous absorbent material. This keeps the nitrogen locked inside, allowing the container to maintain cryogenic temperatures without any liquid movement or spillage.

The result: you get all the cooling power of LN₂, without the hazards associated with transporting liquid nitrogen.

How Does a Dry Shipper Work?

Before use, the Dry Shipper is charged with liquid nitrogen until its inner absorbent is fully saturated. Once the excess LN₂ is poured out, only the absorbed nitrogen remains enough to keep the interior at cryogenic temperature for several days.

Inside, samples are stored in sealed straws, vials, or cryovials within protective canisters. The design ensures:

  • No liquid phase exposure, preventing sample cross-contamination
  • Stable cryogenic temperature, typically between –150°C and –190°C
  • Safe, compliant transport, even by air

Why Dry Shippers Matter in Modern Labs

Whether you’re working in IVF, animal breeding, stem-cell research, or biobanking, reliable cryogenic transport is critical.
Dry Shippers protect valuable material from thawing, leaks, or impact damage. They’re also IATA-approved for air transport, making international shipments straightforward and compliant.

The CryoStork Difference

CryoStork, developed by Cryolab, takes the Dry Shipper concept further.
Built for secure and compliant cryogenic transport, CryoStork units combine:

  • Robust outer shells that withstand heavy handling
  • Long hold times for extended journeys
  • Certified performance for both air and ground shipping

Each unit is validated to maintain cryogenic temperatures while ensuring complete sample integrity from loading to delivery.

Explore the CryoStork Dry Shipper range → Shop 2L-10L Dry Shippers tanks Safe & Reliable | Cryolab

Key Questions About Dry Shippers

How long does a Dry Shipper stay cold?
Depending on size and model, most maintain temperature for 7–20 days.

Can you refill a Dry Shipper?
Yes once it warms to room temperature, simply recharge it with liquid nitrogen following the manufacturer’s guidelines.

What’s the difference between a Dry Shipper and a storage tank?
Storage tanks hold liquid nitrogen and are meant for stationary use; Dry Shippers hold absorbed LN₂ for transport.

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