It is necessary to carefully prepare insects for shipment to overseas destinations to ensure that they arrive in the best possible condition. Failed shipments result in expensive losses in both time and money.

Permits for shipment/importation of insects must be obtained from the country of export and from the destination country. These permits should be obtained well before the shipment date. The fastest and most direct route (usually by air) must be determined, and the package may be unaccompanied or hand carried. Survival is directly related to the time the agents spend in transit. Avoid stops on route, especially those involving transfer of the package to new flights/carriers. It is impossible to guarantee the package will not be subjected to adverse conditions (e.g. temperature extremes) while being held by carriers. A direct route will decrease the chance that the package will be delayed or lost. The consignee in the destination country must be given all details of the consignment.

The life stage shipped should ensure maximum survival of the agents. For example, adult moths are delicate and are susceptible to physical damage, therefore immature specimens should be shipped. Correct packaging is crucial for the survival of insects and ensures that strict quarantine safeguards are maintained. Packaging techniques vary widely according to the type and habit of the insects. The insects are usually held on host plant material within a gauze or cloth bag tied off with string. Sufficient food must be included to keep the agents alive for the shipment duration. The bags are then placed into sealed plastic containers. Plant material should be held in conditions that prevent plant decay. Some plants, like aquatics, will decay quickly and it is important not to have the plant material too moist. Excess moisture within the containers can be controlled by lining the interior with absorbent paper and/or by ventilation (e.g. gauze covered windows or small ventilation holes). The containers are put into an appropriately sized box (preferably insulated), sealed, then placed into a larger carton surrounded by sufficient packaging so that it is insulated against external temperature and physical damage. Permits are attached to the outside of the package.

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