When you need dry ice for keeping food frozen, shipping perishables, or creating spooky Halloween effects, knowing where to buy it locally is essential. Similar to finding convenient services like grocery stores that cash checks or places to get helium balloons filled, having reliable dry ice suppliers nearby can save you time and hassle.
We've evaluated major dry ice suppliers across the United States based on their product selection, pricing per pound, delivery options, and customer satisfaction ratings. Our comprehensive comparison focuses on both nationwide distributors and regional suppliers, with special attention to cost-effectiveness and accessibility for both residential and commercial customers.
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Summary Table
| Item Name | Price Range | Best For | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continental Carbonic | $1.50-$3.00/lb | Bulk Industrial Orders | Visit Site |
| Penguin Brand Dry Ice | $2.00-$4.00/lb | Residential Use | Visit Site |
| Reliant Dry Ice | $1.75-$3.50/lb | Commercial Supply | Visit Site |
| Lakeland Dry Ice | $2.25-$4.50/lb | Local Distribution | Visit Site |
| American Dry Ice Company | $2.00-$4.25/lb | Regional Supply | Visit Site |
| Dry Ice Depot | $2.50-$5.00/lb | Small Business Orders | Visit Site |
| Meritus Gas Partners | $1.25-$3.75/lb | Industrial Bulk Orders | N/A |
| Penguin Brand Dry Ice (Airgas) | $2.50-$5.50/lb | Commercial/Industrial Use | Visit Site |
Key Information
Below you'll find detailed information about each aspect, including important details and considerations.
1. Continental Carbonic
As one of North America's largest dry ice manufacturers, Continental Carbonic operates more than 40 distribution facilities across the United States and Ontario, Canada. Their extensive network ensures reliable same-day delivery for most locations, with bulk pricing starting at $1.25 per pound for orders over 500 pounds.
Whether you're a business owner or managing a special event, Continental Carbonic offers specialized solutions ranging from food-grade pellets to industrial blocks. Their temperature-controlled delivery fleet maintains precise -109.3°F conditions, ensuring your dry ice arrives in perfect condition.
Looking to minimize costs for a large event? Consider bundling your dry ice purchase with other party supplies - check out our guide on where to get helium balloons filled for additional event planning savings.
What sets Continental Carbonic apart:
- Bulk ordering discounts: 10-25% off orders over 500 lbs
- 24/7 emergency delivery available ($75-150 rush fee)
- Custom cut blocks from 5-60 pounds
- Food-grade pellets starting at $1.75/lb for smaller orders
- Commercial account benefits with net-30 terms available
2. Penguin Brand Dry Ice
For convenient retail access, Penguin Brand (operated by Airgas) maintains a presence in over 5,000 grocery stores nationwide. Their standardized pricing structure typically ranges from $2.99-3.99 per pound, making them an excellent choice for small to medium purchases.
Visit Penguin Brand's website to locate their nearest retail partner - most locations stock both pellets and blocks, with special orders available for larger quantities. Their grocery store presence means you can often combine your dry ice purchase with regular shopping trips, saving both time and delivery costs.
Notable features:
- Standard 10lb blocks: $29.99-39.99
- Pellets available in 1lb, 5lb, and 10lb packages
- No minimum purchase required
3. Reliant Dry Ice
Specializing in commercial and industrial applications, Reliant Dry Ice has built a reputation for handling high-volume orders with precision. Their online ordering platform streamlines the process for businesses requiring regular deliveries, with competitive rates starting at $1.45 per pound for orders over 1,000 pounds.
While primarily focused on business clients, they also accommodate smaller orders with a $50 minimum purchase requirement. Their scheduling system allows for regular delivery routes, helping customers lock in preferred pricing through volume commitments.
4. Lakeland Dry Ice
Serving Lake and Cook Counties in Illinois, Lakeland Dry Ice has established itself as a premier supplier of commercial and residential dry ice solutions. Their Mundelein-based facility offers both pelletized and block dry ice, with prices ranging from $1.75 per pound for small quantities to as low as $0.95 per pound for bulk orders over 500 pounds.
What sets Lakeland Dry Ice apart is their specialized focus on laboratory and medical applications, maintaining strict quality control standards that exceed industry requirements. Their same-day delivery service is available throughout the Chicago metropolitan area, with delivery fees starting at $35 for local zones.
Standout services include:
- 24/7 emergency delivery available ($75 rush fee)
- Custom-cut blocks from 5-60 pounds
- Weekly delivery contracts with volume discounts up to 25%
- Specialized packaging for medical shipments
5. American Dry Ice Company
This family-owned Houston institution has been supplying dry ice solutions since 1982. American Dry Ice Company specializes in both standard and custom dry ice products, with retail prices starting at $1.95 per pound for walk-in customers and bulk rates available for commercial clients.
Their facility maintains a constant stock of various dry ice forms, including rice-sized pellets, standard pellets, and blocks, making them a versatile supplier for everything from industrial cooling to special events. The company's commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in their recycling program, which offers credits of $0.50 per pound when returning unused dry ice.
Key offerings:
- Bulk discounts starting at 100+ pounds
- Emergency 2-hour delivery within Houston ($45 fee)
- Food-grade certification for all products
6. Dry Ice Depot
Based in Bridgewater, New Jersey, Dry Ice Depot has streamlined the dry ice buying process with their innovative online ordering system. When you visit their website, you'll find transparent pricing that starts at $2.25 per pound for retail customers, with significant discounts for regular commercial buyers.
The company stands out for its comprehensive shipping solutions, particularly valuable for businesses managing cold chain logistics. Their standard delivery spans New Jersey and parts of New York, with rates beginning at $25 for local deliveries. For those planning special events, they offer expert consulting to determine precise dry ice requirements, helping customers avoid overbuying while ensuring adequate supply.
7. Meritus Gas Partners
A significant player in the industrial gas supply chain, Meritus Gas Partners operates through a network of independent suppliers specializing in dry ice and other industrial gases. While primarily focused on bulk quantities for commercial clients, they're particularly valuable for businesses needing consistent, large-volume dry ice delivery.
Their partnership model with local suppliers ensures reliable regional coverage and often leads to more competitive pricing for bulk orders. Industrial clients typically see savings of 15-25% compared to retail rates when ordering quantities over 500 pounds.
Key advantages for commercial buyers:
- Bulk pricing starting at $0.85-1.25 per pound for orders over 500 lbs
- Dedicated account representatives for consistent supply management
- Custom delivery schedules available for regular orders
- Emergency supply capabilities for unexpected needs
8. Penguin Brand Dry Ice (Airgas)
As one of the most widely accessible dry ice brands in America, Penguin Brand Dry Ice, distributed by Airgas, has established itself as the go-to choice for both residential and small business needs. You'll find their products in over 5,000 grocery stores nationwide, making it exceptionally convenient for last-minute dry ice requirements.
When you visit their product page, you'll discover various forms of dry ice suitable for different applications, from food preservation to special effects. Their retail pricing typically ranges from $1.50-2.50 per pound, with many locations offering both pellet and block forms.
What makes Penguin Brand stand out:
- Available in convenient 1-10 pound packages
- Bulk discounts starting at 10+ pounds (15% average savings)
- Fresh-cut daily at most locations
- Same-day pickup available at most grocery partners
- Food-grade quality certification
If you're planning a move and need dry ice for perishable items, consider checking out our guide on where to get free moving boxes to help manage your relocation costs effectively.
Can You Buy Dry Ice at Grocery Stores?
Yes! Many major grocery stores and retail chains sell dry ice, making it convenient to pick up during your regular shopping trips. Penguin Brand Dry Ice is available in over 5,000 grocery stores nationwide, including major chains like Safeway, Kroger, Walmart, Costco, Publix, and Albertsons. Prices typically range from $1.50-$3.00 per pound at grocery stores, with most locations stocking both pellets and blocks.
Important tip: Always call ahead to confirm availability, as not all store locations carry dry ice year-round, and inventory can vary by season and demand.
Major Grocery Store Chains That Sell Dry Ice
9. Walmart
Walmart sells dry ice at many locations, typically priced between $1.50-$2.50 per pound. You'll need to ask at the customer service desk, as dry ice is kept in special freezers and not displayed on regular shelves.
- Available in 1-10 pound packages
- Usually located near the front of the store or at customer service
- Call your local store first to confirm stock
10. Safeway
Safeway carries Penguin Brand Dry Ice at most locations, with online ordering available for store pickup. Prices typically range from $2.00-$3.00 per pound.
- 1 lb packages available
- Order online for pickup at participating locations
- Found at the customer service desk or front-end coolers
11. Kroger (and affiliated stores)
Kroger and its family of stores (King Soopers, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, etc.) carry dry ice at select locations for approximately $1.50-$2.75 per pound.
- Available at customer service departments
- Blocks and pellets typically in stock
- Call ahead for availability and pricing
12. Costco
Costco offers dry ice at many warehouse locations, often at competitive bulk pricing around $1.25-$2.00 per pound. Membership required.
- Larger quantities available (10-50 pounds)
- Great option for parties and events
- Check with your local warehouse for availability
13. Publix
Publix supermarkets in the Southeast carry dry ice at customer service counters, typically priced $2.00-$3.00 per pound.
- Available in various package sizes
- Staff can help determine how much you need
- Seasonal availability may vary
14. Albertsons (and affiliated stores)
Albertsons, along with Acme Markets and other affiliated chains, stock Penguin Brand Dry Ice at participating locations.
- Prices range from $1.75-$3.00 per pound
- Ask at customer service or meat department
- Block and pellet forms available
Gas Stations & Convenience Stores That Sell Dry Ice
Some gas stations also carry dry ice for added convenience:
- 15. 7-Eleven - Select locations carry small quantities
- 16. Speedway - Available at some locations
- 17. Wawa - Certain stores stock dry ice
How to Find Dry Ice at These Stores:
- Call ahead - Always confirm availability and pricing before visiting
- Ask at customer service - Dry ice isn't kept in regular freezers; staff will retrieve it for you
- Check near the front - Most stores keep dry ice in special coolers near customer service or the entrance
- Visit during business hours - Some stores only sell dry ice during peak hours
- Bring proper containers - Use a well-ventilated cooler for transport
What to Know Before Buying:
- Minimum age: You must be 18+ to purchase dry ice in most states
- No returns: Due to safety concerns, stores don't accept returns on dry ice
- Quantity needed: Plan for 10 pounds per 24 hours of cooling
- Safety gear: Wear insulated gloves when handling - never touch with bare hands
- Storage: Never store in airtight containers or unventilated spaces
Final Words
With dry ice readily available at grocery stores, ice cream shops, and gas stations starting at $1-2 per pound up to $5 per pound at specialty retailers, finding this frozen CO2 near you is easier than ever. Simply call ahead to confirm availability and pricing at your chosen location, bring proper protective gear, and remember to transport and store dry ice safely in a well-ventilated container.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Dry Ice
Where can I buy dry ice for personal use?
Penguin Brand Dry Ice (Airgas) is available in over 5,000 grocery stores across the United States, making it easily accessible for residential use. Local suppliers like Lakeland Dry Ice and American Dry Ice Company also serve residential customers in their respective regions.
Can I get dry ice delivered?
Yes, several companies offer dry ice delivery services. Reliant Dry Ice provides nationwide delivery service, while Continental Carbonic operates through over 40 distribution facilities across the US and Ontario.
Where can I buy dry ice in bulk for commercial use?
Continental Carbonic and Meritus Gas Partners specialize in bulk quantities for industrial and commercial purposes. Regional suppliers like Dry Ice Depot and American Dry Ice Company also serve commercial clients with various forms of dry ice.
Are there local dry ice suppliers in specific regions?
Yes, there are numerous regional suppliers across the US. Examples include Lakeland Dry Ice serving Lake and Cook Counties in Illinois, American Dry Ice Company serving Houston and surrounding areas, and Dry Ice Depot based in Bridgewater, NJ.
