FAQ – Embryo, Sperm & Egg Cryo Shipping to and from South Africa
- Cryo Medical Logistics

- Sep 5
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 28

What is cryo medical logistics for embryo, sperm, and egg shipping?
Cryo medical logistics is the specialist transport of frozen or fresh reproductive biological materials like embryos, sperm, and eggs, using ultra-low temperature containers and highly trained medical couriers to preserve sample viability throughout international transit to and from South Africa.
How do you ship embryos, eggs, and sperm to or from South Africa safely?
Samples are shipped in validated cryogenic containers called dry shippers or dewars that maintain temperatures around -196°C. A dedicated hand-carry courier accompanies the shipment personally, minimizing handling and ensuring continuous temperature control during flights and customs processes.
What are the typical steps involved in shipping reproductive samples to/from South Africa?
Notify both exporting and receiving clinics
Confirm Cryo Medical Logistics courier as the shipping provider
Complete and verify all legal, medical, and customs documentation
Schedule the shipment to align with IVF clinic timing
Courier collects and hand-carries samples on direct flights
Monitor shipment with live GPS tracking
Courier delivers samples to the receiving IVF clinic
Provide post-delivery support including optional legal DNA testing for surrogacy cases.
How long can frozen embryos, eggs, or sperm remain viable during shipping?
Cryogenic containers sustain viability for 6 to 21 days without temperature loss. Couriers plan the shipment carefully to arrive well within this window and provide replenishment options if longer transport times are anticipated.
What documentation is required for importing and exporting reproductive samples in South Africa?
Required paperwork includes export and import permits issued by South African regulatory bodies, clinic consent forms, and in surrogacy cases, legal DNA testing documentation. The cryo logistics provider usually manages these documents to ensure seamless customs clearance complying with South Africa’s National Health Act and SAHPRA regulations.
Are there extra considerations for surrogacy or legal parental rights cases?
Yes. Some couriers offer exclusive packages that include legal DNA testing to establish parentage for passport applications and citizenship processing of children born via surrogacy when samples or embryos are transported internationally.
How much does shipping embryos, eggs, or sperm to South Africa cost?
Cost varies based on route, urgency, and service level but often ranges from several hundred to several thousand pounds/dollars. This includes medical courier service, insurance, temperature-controlled packaging, and management of all legal and customs requirements.
How do I start the process of shipping embryos, sperm, or eggs to or from South Africa?
Start by notifying your IVF clinic of your intent and selecting a specialized cryogenic courier with proven experience in South Africa. The courier coordinates directly with your clinic to handle logistics, documentation, travel arrangements, and real-time shipment monitoring until delivery.
Contact Greenplace Healthcare
📧 Email: transports@cryomedicallogistics.com
📞 Phone (UK): +44 208 150 0059
💬 WhatsApp/Telegram: +447585610211
We provide global embryo, sperm & egg courier services to and from South Africa with professionalism, legal compliance, and care.




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