FAQ

WHAT QUESTIONS ABOUT TRANSPORTING PROCESS OF FROZEN EMBRYOS, EGGS AND SPERM DO WE ANSWER THE MOST

• Can frozen embryos, eggs and sperm be transported to another clinic?

Yes, they can. Either it is because you are not happy with your current care or you are moving, or perhaps your clinic is no longer operating, providers of cryoshipping servises, such as BioCouriers offer complex solution to transport your frozen cells.

• Is it safe to ship cryopreserved embryos, eggs and sperm?

Yes. Correctly handled transport has no negative effect on the ability of the embryos, eggs or sperm to create a pregnancy once thawed successfully. Therefore make sure you choose experienced courier to transport your cells.

• We have frozen reproductive cells and need to transport them to another clinic. What does the whole process involve?

Before we start arranging the transport, you need to inform the sending and the receiving institution of your intention. They may ask you to provide with an agreement with the transport and possibly other related documents. Furthermore, to sign a transport contract with us - BioCouriers. In the meantime, both clinics exchange relevant sample documentation, including blood test results. Once the exchange of documents is complete, transport date is scheduled.

• How long does it take to prepare transport?

The length of preparation depends on the speed of communication between clinics that need to exchange the necessary documents. Once documentation has been resolved, the planning and execution of the transfer usually takes no more than 1-3 weeks (within Europe) to 4-8 weeks (transhipment).

• How long does transportation take?

The length of time your cells will be on the road usually does not exceed 3 days (for the longest transports). However, our containers are designed to maintain a stable environment for at least 8 days after being filled with liquid nitrogen. In the event that circumstances require a longer transport time, we regularly refill the container to avoid temperature increase.

• How are you different from regular companies such as DHL, FedEx, TNT or UPS?

BioCouriers cryoshipping is a personal courier service - our courier accompanies the shipment throughout the transport from sending to the receiving clinic. Assigned courier is responsible for making sure manipulation with the container is proper and safe. If flying courier always takes container on board with him. The container is never passed on to third parties! This is a big difference from conventional companies where a large number of people handle the shipment, including airport staff. This way we can ensure that the shipment doesn't undergo X-ray control, which would destroy sensitive cells.

• How much does it cost to transport cells?

The transport price depends on the dispatch destination and destination of delivery. In general, transport between larger cities with good air connections is cheaper. For more information regarding prices, visit our page with transport fees listed: pricelist.

• Does my cell count affect shipping costs?

No, transport price is for the shipment itself and does not depend on the number of cells transported.

• What documents and tests will I need?

As a shipping company we need to be provided with a signed and scanned Contract of Carriage. However, clinics may request additional documents and their requirements may vary - so we recommend that you contact both clinics with this question.

• How long can cells survive in the container?

For cell transport we use the same technology as cryobanks for long-term storage - containers with liquid nitrogen. Containers are designed to maintain a stable environment for at least 8 days from last filling. If circumstances require longer transport time, we refill the container regularly to avoid temperature increase. Theoretically, the cells can therefore remain in the container indefinitely.

• Cells do not undergo X-ray inspection. So how does it work at the airport?

At all airports used by the courier during the transportation of cells, we ensure an exceptions to X-ray control with the local security service. Therefore, the container will only pass visual inspection + explosive trace detection. The container is never near the control equipment to prevent the effects of X-rays on the cells transported.

• Are there any legislative restrictions when it comes to transport of cells?

Yes, different countries have different legislation and for this reason, unfortunately, it's not always possible to use cells for IVF treatment in particular country. We therefore recommend contacting both clinics to inform them of your intention before actual transport scheduling. Your chosen destination clinic will always provide you with the most accurate information on whether your cells can be received and used for your treatment.

• Does my partner have to give written consent for the cell transportation?

For the purposes of the Contract of Carriage between the Client and BioCouriers, the partner's consent is not required. However, it's customary for such consent to be required by sending or receiving clinic to release/accept the cells. We recommend contacting both clinics before actual transport scheduling to obtain all information in advance.

• Is it possible to transport cells that are positive for sexually transmitted diseases?

Yes, BioCouriers also transport positive or incompletely examined cells. According to international standards, the transport container is professionally disinfected after each such transport.

LET'S MAKE THE TRANSPORT HAPPEN!

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