A method for preparing a prosthetic valve and a delivery system for an implantation procedure. The method comprises (a) obtaining a tray, the tray containing the delivery system, the prosthetic valve coupled to the delivery system, and a valve cover in which the prosthetic valve is disposed. The tray comprises a storage cavity comprising an open end, a floor, and a peripheral side wall defining the depth of the cavity, wherein the prosthetic valve and the valve cover are disposed in the storage cavity； and a mounting surface that substantially immobilizes and maintains the valve cover and prosthetic valve within the storage cavity. The method further comprises (b) at least partially filing the storage cavity with a first hydrating fluid to completely immerse the prosthetic valve； and (c) removing the delivery device with the prosthetic valve from the tray, including disengaging the prosthetic valve from the mounting surface.
