Cold package shipping is a favorite of many businesses that deal with perishables. The common sectors in cold package shipping are healthcare and life sciences, food, and pharmaceuticals. This method is the best for shipping temperature-controlled shipments.
However, simple mistakes can make your cold package shipment go awry. Here are tips to help you ship your temperature-sensitive packages safely and successfully.
Choose the Right Packaging Materials
Suitable packaging materials are everything when it comes to cold package shipping. They protect the products from adverse conditions, such as temperature fluctuations. A reputable shipping company offering cold shipping solutions can help you with this.
Some of the common cold packaging materials include:
- Dry ice: It’s an excellent option for shipping items that need freezing temperatures. It is a perfect cooling agent.
- Validated thermal shippers: These are pre-qualified insulated containers. They are perfect for maintaining the cold temperatures for your shipment.
- Insulated boxes and liners: They’re ideal for preserving the temperature of your shipments.
- Refrigerant gel packs: They keep products at a particular temperature.
- Thermal bags: These are often made from polystyrene and have high insulating properties.
The above packaging materials come with varying features. Before settling on any of them, consider;
- Size and type of shipment
- Products sensitivity to temperature changes
- The delivery method you will be using
The proper packaging is not complete without factoring in the above three.
Consider the Shipping Time
Do not ignore the time it takes to ship temperature-sensitive packages. This aspect determines the temperature-controlled packaging method you will use.
For example, frozen dry ice is ideal if you want to ship the package via ground transportation. However, you should use a frozen gel pack for shipments that will take three days or more.
For shipments that will take more than seven days, you should consider using refrigerated containers. When shipping long-haul packages, you should consider the mode of transportation.
Label Your Packages
You should clearly label your packages with the necessary information. This will help ensure that your package reaches its destination safely and without any issues. The following are some of the details you should include:
- Dangerous/hazardous labels (if the package contains hazardous goods). This is a requirement by FDA and sippers must adhere.
- Temperature and handling instructions. You should include the temperature range required for the package to maintain its integrity.
- The words “FRAGILE” or “PERISHABLE” should appear on the package to indicate that it needs special handling.
- If you are using dry ice, “ICE PACK” should be on the package.
Poor labeling can lead to delays and spoilage of the products.
Use Same Day Courier Services
A same-day courier service is ideal for cold packages that need urgent delivery. This service will ensure that your package arrives at its destination as quickly as possible.
Alternatives to same-day courier services include;
- Express package delivery
- Next day delivery
- Overnight shipping
Shipping companies that offer the above deliveries specialize in handling cold package shipments. So, you can be sure that your package will arrive at its destination safely.
Know the Regulations
Also, ensure that you understand the regulations governing the transportation of temperature-sensitive packages. It will help you adhere to the required safety standards and avoid penalties.
Track Your Shipments
Tracking your shipments is another way of ensuring that they arrive at their destination safely. Doing so can help you identify potential problems and address them on time.
The following are some of the ways you can track your shipments:
- Online package tracking tools
- Tracking numbers
- Contacting the shipping company’s customer service department.
The tracking information will help you identify any issues with your package. Through tracking, you can tell whether temperature fluctuations are affecting your package.
Get Solution Today!
Shipping temperature-sensitive packages can be a daunting task if you are unfamiliar with the process. However, by following the tips above, you will ship your cold packages safely.