Embryos and Sperm to Ghana - Cryo Shipping Costs, Process, and Legal issues
- Cryo Medical Logistics
- Jul 13, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 26, 2025
As fertility tourism grows in Africa, Ghana have emerged as leading destinations for advanced IVF treatment. But the success of your fertility journey depends not just on the clinic you choose, but on the safe, compliant transport of embryos and sperm cells—a process that demands expertise, precision, and strict adherence to international regulations.
What Is Cryoshipping?
Cryoshipping is the transportation of frozen biomaterials—such as embryos, sperm, and oocytes—using specialized medical containers called dewars or dry shippers. These containers are essential for maintaining the required temperature of -196°C in liquid nitrogen, ensuring that samples remain viable for successful fertilization. Only a qualified cryo medical couriers should handle the transfer of these precious materials into the dewar, following strict protocols for packaging and documentation.
Why Are Dewars Essential?
Dewars are the only containers approved for cryopreserved IVF sample transport.
They comply with EU Tissue Directives 2004/23/EC, 2006/17/EC, and 2006/86/EC, which set the gold standard for safety and quality in human tissue and cell handling.
Properly packed, a small dewar can hold up to 21 straws or multiple goblets, while larger units can accommodate even more—always in a single-level packing to reduce risk.
Legal and Logistical Considerations
Every country has its own regulatory body overseeing the import and export of IVF samples—such as the HFEA in the UK, FDA in the USA, and equivalent authorities in Africa. For shipments to Ghana, all documentation must be accurate, translated as required, and pre-cleared with customs. This includes:
Invoices specifying sample quantity and equipment details
Sender and recipient information
Export/import dates and transport route
International cooperation agreements and courier data
Customs pre-clearance is crucial: failure to provide the correct paperwork can result in devastating delays, with samples sometimes stuck in customs for days and exposed to unsafe temperatures.
Horror Stories: When Customs Goes Wrong
There have been real cases of embryos and sperm being stuck at customs due to incomplete paperwork or inexperienced couriers. In some tragic instances, samples have thawed or been X-rayed by non-specialist shipping companies, rendering them unusable and causing immense distress to patients. This is why it’s vital to use a specialist cryoshipping provider that understands both the science and the bureaucracy.
Shipping Methods: Medical Cargo vs. Concierge Hand Carry
Medical Cargo Shipping
Samples are shipped as registered medical cargo with airlines, in IATA-approved dewars.
Requires meticulous documentation and customs coordination.
Risk: Non-specialist handlers may not appreciate the urgency or sensitivity and cells can be x-rayed, increasing the risk of damage, delays or mishandling.
Concierge Hand Carry
A trained courier personally escorts the dewar as hand luggage, overseeing every step from clinic to clinic.
Maximizes oversight, ensures continuous temperature control, and allows for immediate response to any travel disruptions.
Advantage: Greatly reduces the risk of customs delays and mishandling, providing peace of mind.
Why Cryo Medical Logistics?
Cryo Medical Logistics is the preferred partner for transporting embryos and sperm to Ghana because:
Regulatory Expertise: Fully compliant with international and local regulations, including the EU Tissue Directives and IATA standards.
Specialized Containers: Uses only certified dewars, with continuous temperature monitoring and data logging throughout transit.
End-to-End Service: Manages all paperwork, pre-clearance, and communication with clinics and customs, minimizing the risk of delays.
Concierge Hand Carry Option: Offers personal courier services for maximum security and oversight.
Proven Track Record: Near-perfect success rate, with real-time tracking and optional insurance for added reassurance.
Local Knowledge: Extensive experience with customs and clinic networks in Ghana, ensuring smooth handover and compliance.
The Process: What to Expect
Consultation: Share your needs and shipment details with Cryo Medical Logistics.
Documentation: Receive and complete all required forms, including transport agreements and import/export consents.
Coordination: Cryo Medical Logistics handles scheduling with both the releasing and receiving clinics, and arranges customs pre-clearance.
Shipping: A courier collects the samples in a pre-chilled dewar, ensuring continuous temperature monitoring and safe transit.
Delivery: Samples are delivered within 24-72 hours, with photo evidence and real-time updates provided.
Insurance: Optional coverage protects your investment in the rare event of a mishap.
Cryoshipping Costs
Costs vary based on route complexity, equipment used, and administrative fees. For example, shipping from Europe to Africa typically ranges from £1500 - £5000 and takes 2–6 days. Always request a personalized quote and confirm what is included—especially insurance and customs handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ship internationally?
Yes, with the right provider, international shipping is routine.
Can I insure my samples?
Yes, we offer insurance up to £36,750.
Can infected material be shipped?
Yes, we use special processes and documentation for this. s
Don’t risk your future family to chance. For anyone transporting embryos or sperm to Ghana, Cryo Medical Logistics offers unrivaled expertise, compliance, and peace of mind.
Contact us today to ensure your precious samples arrive safely, securely, and on time.
Phone: +442081500059
💬 WhatsApp/Telegram: +447585610211
