A packaging assembly for storing a bioprosthetic heart valve without a liquid preservative solution is provided. The packaging system includes a holder, a cage, a storage tray and an insert sized to provide a cap over the cavity of the storage tray. The holder comprises a shaft and an engagement structure configured for removably attaching a bioprosthetic heart valve. The cage comprises an upper end, the cage configured to at least partially enclose the bioprosthetic heart valve. The storage tray comprises a cavity for housing the cage. The insert comprises a slot having a closed central end and an open outer periphery, the shaft of the holder being non-rotatably retained at the closed central end. The insert defines a flat, generally planar disc comprising at least one of outward projections and flow passages. The packaging assembly does not comprise a liquid preservative solution.