Guidelines for shipping temperature-sensitive goods
Shipping temperature-sensitive goods require making proper decisions in terms of selecting the right carrier, product packaging and so on. Minor temperature variations and wrong packaging can cause damage to temperature-sensitive items. These include chocolate, yogurt, gummies and probiotics. Be careful to choose an experienced carrier and package your products appropriately.
Follow the guidelines below to keep your products at the right temperature while shipping:
| Guideline | Description |
|---|---|
| Selection of an appropriate carrier | The carrier company should be:
|
| Packaging selection |
There should be appropriate cooling to maintain consistency in temperature. Selection of good insulation material will ensure that you need less coolant. For example, in case of hard items that require less cooling, insulated foam planks or thermal bubble wrap is sufficient. For healthcare shipments requiring a specific temperature range, use thermo-regulated packaging. Choose "active" thermo-regulated packaging especially for sensitive shipments. This type of packaging contains a thermostat-controlled refrigerated container powered by an internal power source. |
| Coolant selection |
Select an appropriate coolant. Dry ice is considered best for freezing, while gel packs keep item temperature between 32 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintain appropriate padding by using material such bubble wrap, etc. Ensure that you comply with your carrier’s Cold Ship guidelines, including on use of dry ice. For example, dry ice should not come into direct contact with any food items. Secure gel packs and coolants with tape while shipping delicate goods. Include ample padding material such as bubble wrap to prevent movement within the cooler. |
| Fast shipping | The transit time for shipping the temperature-controlled goods should be minimized. Consider overnight shipping with a maximum transit time of 30 hours. Avoid shipping on holidays to avoid product storage in a warehouse. |
| Provide tracking information | Send delivery message and shipment-tracking information to your customers. |
Recommendations for product packaging
While packing your product, here are some items that can assist with your shipment:
- A new corrugated box
- Coolant
- Insulation material (foam cooler, foam planks, thermal bubble wrap)
- Appropriate cushioning (bubble wrap, packing peanuts, foam)
- Temperature-monitoring device
Follow these recommendations while packaging your products for shipping:
| Recommendations for... | Description |
|---|---|
| Leakage prevention | Frozen and liquid items must be enclosed in watertight plastic before packing them in an insulated container. Arrange the cooler with plastic and then enclose the absorbent for protection. |
| Handling perishable goods | Surround your goods with room-temperature gel packs within an insulated container. |
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- Guidelines for shipping temperature-sensitive goods
