Gel Packs Or Dry Ice: How To Ship

Shipping products using the cold chain process can be an unpredictable yet necessary experience. Factors like changing weather conditions, shifting temperatures, and supply chain delays can affect the shipping process on a daily basis. Instead of simply shipping your temperature-sensitive package and hoping for the best, it's important to consider various factors such as the length of the journey, the time of year, and whether you should ship perishable goods using gel packs or dry ice.

In recent times, due to lockdowns, quarantines, and the increased demand for pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and perishable food, temperature-controlled shipping has become a significant concern in the cold chain process. By using appropriate products and packaging, you can add some stability to an otherwise unpredictable journey

If you’re shipping anything that can spoil or expire without being held at specific temperature ranges, this guide provides helpful tips. So whether you are shipping with gel packs or dry ice you can ensure the safe arrival of your package.

One option for shipping frozen goods, perishables, and certain medical products is to use dry ice. Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide (CO2) and has been used since the early 1920s. While dry ice can meet your shipping needs, it's important to note that it will eventually convert back to gaseous CO2 during the package's travel. This means that dry ice doesn't thaw or melt; it simply becomes gassy. During the journey, the gaseous CO2 needs to escape, so it's crucial to plan accordingly and ensure that your packaging is adequately ventilated.

Using dry ice is safe as long as you follow these guidelines:

1. Never consume dry ice, as even non-toxic packaging contains ingredients that can be harmful if swallowed.
2. Handle dry ice only in well-ventilated areas to avoid extreme irritation caused by inhaling the fumes.
3. Clearly label your packages and adhere to the guidelines provided by your courier.

Another option for shipping temperature-sensitive items is to use gel packs. Standard ice melts quickly, leaving your dry goods wet and stored at an improper temperature. Ice Cold Gel Packs, on the other hand, last up to 65% longer than regular frozen water ice. These gel packs contain water and Sodium Polyacrylate, a sodium-based gel that lowers the pack's temperature without the need for large amounts of dry ice.

While the components inside Ice Cold Gel Packs are considered non-toxic, it's best to avoid handling the contents directly and wash any skin that comes in contact with soap and water.

To determine whether your shipment requires gel packs or dry ice, consider the desired shipping temperature. If you need your package to be shipped cold but not frozen (between 30-60 degrees), gel packs are the best option. Shipping temperature-controlled foods and pharmaceuticals involves following rules and regulations, and using gel packs is easier, more cost-effective, and safer than traditional refrigeration methods.

Here are some additional benefits of choosing Ice Cold Gel Packs:

1. They are non-toxic.
2. The gel packs are reusable and environmentally friendly.
3. The contents of the gel packs are secure and won't contaminate your product.
4. Gel packs allow for shipping without the restrictions placed on items shipped with dry ice.

Temperature-controlled shipping solutions may not be new, but with the advancements made by the ICGP team, your shipping experience is much more effective, efficient and accessible, which is good news for any business.

Ice Cold Gel Packs is the solution that your cold chain business needs to ensure your product stays ice cold! Whether it’s food, pharmaceuticals, liquids, or any other perishable item, gel packs are here to help you keep cold!