In today's medicine, the safe and rapid transport of sensitive biological materials is essential, and logistics services play a key role in this process. Our company specializes in the transport of human reproductive cells (sperm, eggs, and also embryos) - material that requires not only the utmost precision in handling, but also the most up-to-date technology to ensure optimal conditions for transport.
We would like to tell you our story and share what led us to found BioCouriers, as week as the challenges and successes we have experienced along the way. We would like to tell you how we ensure the safety of transport, not only of embryos, and what innovations we are planning for the future.
We will gradually reveal the behind-the-scenes story of our company and introduce you not only to the founder, but also to the entire team that ensures that your unique reproductive cells reach their destination safely and on time.
Today, we start with an interview with one of the co-founders of BioCouriers, Marek Lupač.
Marek, where did you get the idea to start a courier company specializing in shipping reproductive cells? What inspired you to do this?
About ten years ago, I learned that such a field existed. I was already in the transportation business, so I was naturally interested. A variety of circumstances fell into place and an opportunity arose to enter this specific industry, so I decided to take it.
What were your first steps in setting up the company?
The absolute foundation was without a doubt obtaining the necessary licenses and specific permits that are required for the transport of sensitive biological material such as reproductive cells. Next, it was necessary to set up processes to comply not only with local and international regulations, but also with the requirements of transport companies, IVF clinics and other stakeholders. Each detail had to be carefully thought out and coordinated to ensure that every single transport was 100 % secure.
What are the technological and logistical challenges associated with transporting reproductive cells?
We have paid close attention to the selection of technologies and equipment that are key to this type of transport. For example, our containers are sourced only from a very reputable supplier in the US, while the measuring instruments that precisely monitor conditions during transport are purchased in Germany. We looked for reliable and verified companies so that we could guarantee maximum safety and transport quality.
In terms of logistics, the biggest challenge is to coordinate all aspects of the transport so that everything fits together perfectly – clinics have fixed operating hours, flights can be delayed, and many unforeseen events can happen during the journey. Every step must be planned down to the minute, because we can't afford delays in such a sensitive area.
The Covid-19 pandemic was a huge test for us in this regard. When air traffic came to a standstill virtually overnight, we had to adapt in real time and look for alternative solutions. But still we were able to provide transport to even the most heavily guarded destinations. For example, we managed to transport embryos to Argentina during the most stringent anti-epidemic measures, when the country was almost completely isolated.
It was an exceptionally challenging time, because it was a completely new situation for everyone involved. We had to negotiate with the authorities, secure exemptions, organise testing of the couriers for Covid-19 before and during the trip, and deal with quarantine measures based on country regulations. Nevertheless, we met the challenge and have been even stronger since then. This experience has shown us how important it is to be flexible and to constantly look for new ways to solve things.
Do you work with assisted reproduction clinics around the world? How do the requirements of different clinics differ?
Yes, we work with IVF clinics all over the world. We have traveled to every continent except Antarctica. As far as requirements are concerned, the safety standards are very strict and very high in all countries, so there are not much room for differences.
Several times in the past, we have encountered the situation where some medical facilities did not know about the possibility of transportation like ours, i.e. via professional IVF couriers. However, after encountering our services, they often switched to this standard, which brings them a higher level of security.
We are delighted to be able to spread awareness of these services while contributing to raising the overall standard in the industry.
How important is transparency and communication with clients throughout the shipping process for BioCouriers?
These are crucial for us. Together they are part of the reason that we implemented a team of coordinators in our company years ago. These are the people who represent a kind of liaison between IVF clinics, hand-carry couriers, shipping companies and, of course, clients. Each of the coordinators has knowledge of several languages. In addition to high-level English, which is a matter of course, they also know other world languages. For example, we can speak with all of these outside partners in German, Italian, Spanish, French or Greek. These options ensure that we can communicate more effectively and quickly, and at the same time prevent misunderstandings that could occur when things are "lost in translation".
What do you consider the most important lesson you've learned since you started the company?
The biggest lesson came out of the Covid-19 pandemic. I realized that if you have the will and the right communication, you can do almost anything. Adapting to the unexpected conditions at that time showed us how important it is to look for solutions even in the most complex situations. Not to be discouraged at the first time someone tells us that something is supposedly " impossible".
What was the most interesting or significant transport case that stuck in your mind?
There have been many over the years. One that stands out in my mind was the transport of cells from Scandinavia to the USA. The client contacted us on a Monday evening, saying that the reproductive cells needed to be transported by the end of the week. And we got them there by Thursday morning.
Another memorable point is our work in Ukraine, even in these difficult times. The fact that we manage safe transport even in such trying conditions always reassures us of the importance of our work.
What are the values and philosophies behind your company? How do you try to differentiate yourself from your competitors?
A personal and individual approach is essential for us. All of our coordinators maintain close communication with clients, which is key. We recognize that we work with people who are often going through difficult life situations and that each of their stories is very delicate, sensitive, and personal. That's why we strive to be as empathetic as possible. Despite the growth of our company, we make sure that we take the time to give each client the care they need -- which is how we are constantly strengthening our team.
How do you see the future of your company?
Our goal is to maintain a balance between modern technology and a human touch. Although we use the latest technology, we always make sure that the human factor remains first.