Introduction
When it comes to cord blood and tissue banking, one name stands out: CBR (Cord Blood Registry). As the largest and most established private cord blood banking company in the United States, CBR has helped hundreds of thousands of families preserve their newborns’ stem cells.
But is CBR Cord Blood Registry the best choice for your family? In this review, we’ll explore CBR’s services, pricing, pros and cons, and compare it with other leading cord blood banking companies.
What is CBR Cord Blood Registry?
Founded in 1992, CBR Cord Blood Registry is the largest newborn stem cell preservation company in the world. The company specializes in collecting, processing, and storing stem cells from both umbilical cord blood and cord tissue.
- Headquarters: San Bruno, California, USA
- Accreditations: FDA-registered, AABB-accredited, CLIA-certified lab
- Track Record: Over 1 million stem cell samples preserved
CBR’s goal is to provide families with access to cord blood and tissue storage, ensuring long-term availability of stem cells for future medical treatments.
Services Offered by CBR
1. Cord Blood Banking
CBR collects and stores cord blood cells that are rich in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). These cells are already used in approved treatments for:
- Blood cancers (leukemia, lymphoma)
- Immune deficiencies
- Bone marrow disorders
- Genetic blood diseases
2. Cord Tissue Banking
CBR also offers cord tissue preservation, which contains mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These cells are under research for:
- Regenerative therapies
- Neurological conditions
- Diabetes and heart disease trials
3. Placenta Tissue Banking (available in select packages)
Some families also choose to preserve placenta stem cells, giving additional regenerative potential.
4. Newborn Stem Cell Preservation
CBR markets its services as a complete newborn stem cell preservation solution, combining cord blood and tissue storage for maximum future medical applications.
CBR Cord Blood Banking Pricing
Pricing is one of the most important factors for families. Here’s a breakdown of typical CBR cord blood banking costs:
- Cord Blood Collection & Processing Fee: $1,500–$2,500 (one-time)
- Annual Storage Fee: $175–$300 per year
- Cord Tissue Banking Add-On: $500–$800 upfront, plus $150–$200 per year
- Lifetime Storage Plans: $4,000–$6,000 (covers collection + 20–25 years of storage)
Tip: CBR often offers financing plans, discounts for multiple children, and promotions for upfront lifetime storage packages.
Pros and Cons of CBR Cord Blood Registry
Pros
- Largest private cord blood registry in the U.S.
- Long history and trusted reputation
- AABB-accredited, FDA-registered lab
- Offers both cord blood and cord tissue storage
- Financing and installment options available
- Strong research partnerships in regenerative medicine
Cons
- Slightly higher cord blood banking cost compared to smaller competitors
- Annual storage fees can add up over time
- Public donation options are limited (focuses on private banking only)
Alternatives to CBR Cord Blood Registry
While CBR is the most recognized name in the industry, parents may want to compare it with other cord blood banking companies:
1. ViaCord
- Focuses on cord blood and cord tissue banking
- Strong partnerships with medical research institutions
- Slightly lower initial fees than CBR
2. Cryo-Cell International
- First private cord blood bank in the U.S.
- Known for competitive pricing
- Accredited by AABB and FDA
3. Inception Cord Blood
- Offers cord blood, cord tissue, and placenta stem cell banking
- Advanced cryogenic preservation technology
- Transparent pricing models
Who Should Choose CBR Cord Blood Registry?
CBR is ideal for parents who:
- Want a trusted, established company with a strong track record
- Prefer access to both cord blood and cord tissue banking
- Value accreditation and proven reliability over slightly lower costs
- Are interested in participating in stem cell clinical trials through CBR’s partnerships
FAQs
1. Is CBR worth the cost?
For many families, the peace of mind and reputation of CBR justify the slightly higher cost. It’s one of the most established providers worldwide.
2. Can siblings use CBR-stored stem cells?
Yes, in many cases. Stem cells from cord blood can be used for siblings and parents depending on genetic compatibility.
3. How does CBR compare with public cord blood banking?
Public banks allow free donations but don’t guarantee access to your child’s stem cells. CBR ensures exclusive family access.
4. How long can CBR store stem cells?
With proper preservation, cord blood and tissue storage can last 25+ years.
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Conclusion
CBR Cord Blood Registry remains the leader in private cord blood and tissue banking in 2025. With decades of experience, accreditations, and strong clinical research partnerships, CBR offers families a safe and reliable way to secure their newborn’s stem cells.
While CBR’s costs may be slightly higher than competitors like ViaCord, Cryo-Cell, or Inception, many parents value its reputation and advanced technology.
If you’re looking for the most established provider in cord blood preservation, CBR is a strong choice — but always compare alternatives to ensure the right fit for your family.
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