Shipping temperature sensitive products during summer months can be challenging. Perishable goods like frozen food, confectionary products, and pharmaceuticals must be kept cold despite their sometimes lengthy journey. In order to ensure your items will arrive at their destination in perfect condition we’ve compiled a list of simple tips to make your shipping experience a breeze.
Insulation!
Choosing the right box is the first step when shipping a frozen or cold temperature product. It is important to make sure that the box is brand new, as this ensures that it is in the best condition to keep the product at its optimal temperature during transit. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the box is the correct size for the product being shipped, as too large a box may allow for additional air to enter, resulting in the product not being cold enough and too small a box may not provide enough insulation.
Once the right box is chosen, it should be lined with an appropriate insulating material, such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts, to ensure the product stays at the desired temperature. Finally, a cold or dry ice pack should be included in the box to help keep the product at the optimal temperature. Following these steps should help ensure that the product is shipped in the best possible condition. Used boxes tend to have imperfections like dents and cuts that can damage the integrity of your shipment.
Corrugated cardboard provides a thicker, more protected layer to your shipment which means your package is less vulnerable to the elements. Bubble boxes and other insulated products provide extra cushioning including leak-proof options while insulated mailers are ideal for smaller items you intend to ship.
Plan Ahead!
Before shipping your product you should read and follow all shipping procedures provided by your carrier including properly labeling your packages. For frozen shipments, following all the requirements of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) will ensure your shipments successful arrival. The IATA requires the outer packaging of all dry ice shipments to contain the following markings,
- “Dry Ice” or “Carbon Dioxide Solid”
- The net weight of the dry ice in kilograms
- The name and address of the shipper
- The name and address of the recipient
Pack it Correctly!
Shipping cold packs and regular ice does not require the same labeling as packages with dry ice due to their non-toxic formula. For wet products or while shipping goods with dry ice, adding a foam box not only adds another layer of insulation, but helps seal your package better.
When sending perishable products using dry ice, it is important to ensure that enough ventilation is provided for the dry ice to sublimate. This is because dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide, and will slowly evaporate back into its natural gas form as it warms. It is important to properly seal the package to prevent any leakage and to ensure that the dry ice stays contained and does not come into contact with the outside environment.
Additionally, the package should be labeled with a warning indicating the presence of dry ice to alert handlers and receivers of the package. Finally, it is important to use an appropriate shipping container and enough insulation to ensure that the dry ice stays at a low enough temperature to remain in its solid form.
Send it FAST.
When shipping goods and products that are temperature sensitive, timing is crucial. Always choose the fastest method available and be sure to follow all federal shipping requirements to avoid any delays. Try to ship early during the week to avoid delays that may be caused by holidays or where your carrier doesn’t offer weekend shipments.
The cold chain process can be unpredictable. With reusable cold packs, your shipment will arrive as cold as you the minute you sent it. Visit our product page to see how we can simplify your shipping needs.
Ice Gel Packs stay colder and could be the solution that cold chain logistics needs to ensure your product stays ice cold! Whether you’re shipping food, pharmaceuticals, liquids, or any other perishable item, their non-toxic gel packs are here to help you keep cold!
With locations in Dallas and Los Angeles our team of specialists provide the perfect solution for your cold chain supply needs. Our non-toxic, leak proof bags come in a variety of sizes to ensure your package arrives safe, on time, and at the correct temperature. Contact our sales department to see how gel cold packs can innovate your cold logistic shipping needs.