Temperature-controlled shipments have always been one of the most challenging to organize. For that reason, shippers constantly search for the optimal ways to make their cold deliveries easy and affordable. Among various options, business owners often consider cooling packaging.
Why use cooling packaging?
Many frequently transported items fall under the cold chain and temperature-sensitive shipping. They include food and beverages, healthcare products, plants, fine art pieces, etc. Even though refrigerated shipping is typically the most suitable way to move these goods, sometimes shippers need to apply additional cooling packaging to preserve the products’ features. For instance, delivering perishables in summer may require enhanced temperature control besides using a reefer truck. When shipping via less than truckload mode, it’s crucial to ensure the products keep their required temperature when handled repeatedly.
On the other hand, reefer shipping doesn’t always suit your budget due to its higher price and lower capacity. If your goods are not overly susceptible to slight temperature shifts, it seems reasonable to apply special coolants. It is a cost-effective solution for short-distance delivery where you can maintain the required degree with the help of cooling packaging.
Types of cooling packaging
Among various types of cooling packaging, you can find the one that suits your products’ properties and transportation needs. Applying shipping coolants makes creating a favorable temperature environment easier so your items travel safely and don’t spoil during transit.
Thermo boxes
Thermo boxes are highly effective for transporting delicate items that require temperature control and insulation. Thermal boxes are probably the best choice if you plan to ship pharmaceuticals or other chemically active substances.
Besides maintaining the necessary degree and preventing medicines from losing their properties, they also reduce the risks of bacterial growth. In addition, the thermal box structure softens transit shocks and vibration, thus eliminating freight damage.
Thermo boxes differ in size and can condense small and middle shipments. As a rule, this cooling packaging can preserve cold temperatures for up to 24 hours. Often, modernized thermal boxes connect to specialized apps for instant temperature regulation and overall supply chain supervision.
Cooling plates
Metal cooling plates work well for transporting various items, whether needing to keep low degrees or producing heat mechanically. Thus, you can use cooling plates while shipping electronics that can warm up during transportation. Although plates cool due to the internal liquid flow, their design is safe for electronic devices.
Cooling plates also are a suitable option for localized chilling. In the case of delivering many items, some of which don’t require temperature control, you can locally apply a cooling plate to those needing it. Doing so allows for maintaining the optimal temperature for sensitive cargo without affecting other transported units.
Cooling systems
If you don’t manage to book a reefer truck for your cold shipment, consider using portable cooling systems. The carrier can connect this cooling equipment to their transportation unit and regulate the system depending on the vehicle’s functionality during movement. Thus, your products will stay in a temperature-controlled environment while on the road.
Cooling packaging elements
Dry ice
Dry ice is one of the logistics industry’s most frequently used cooling elements. It can maintain considerably low temperatures and quickly cools perishable products and pharmaceuticals during transit. The dry ice suppliers typically press these cooling elements into pellets or blocks. It helps to avoid the dry ice contacting your goods.
However, dry ice is hazardous cooling packaging that can harm supply chain members. This chemical substance doesn’t transform into a liquid when heated but changes into a dangerous gas. Therefore, shippers need to get permission to use dry ice. Specific transportation and labeling requirements rely on the Hazard Analysis Critical Control (HACCP).
Gel packs
Frozen gel packs are an excellent alternative to traditional dry ice. You can use gel packs for shipping almost all types of temperature-sensitive goods. They’re typically inexpensive and can adapt to your product’s shape. Besides, gel packs are reusable – you can freeze them repeatedly and apply them in subsequent shipments. However, these cooling elements are prone to leaking when used for too long a period. Thus, using gel packs for relatively shorter distances makes sense.
Foam bricks
Refrigerant foam bricks represent an affordable and easy-to-use cooling packaging element. Since foam bricks are available in any size, you can pick the ones that don’t enlarge the general package volume and, consequently, don’t affect the cargo weight. Cooling foam bricks possess absorbing features which are effective in case of leaks. Still, it’s vital to know that foam bricks work best for stackable items that don’t contain fragile components.
Cold shipping with GoShip
At GoShip, we’ll help you organize successful cold shipments and connect you with professional carriers aiming to deliver your goods in perfect condition. On our website, you can search for suitable carrier services, compare rates, and get an instant free quote.