The demand for perishable goods worldwide is increasing. To cater to the high demands, so are the requirements for refrigerated logistics, better known as cold chain logistics.
Cold chain logistics has already garnered a considerable market globally due to the demand boom for temperature-controlled pharmaceuticals, fresh flowers, fresh foods, and other perishable goods. If such goods are not transported to restaurant chains’ storehouses or food production houses, they will be directly delivered to the customer’s doorstep.
Now, perishable or sensitive goods require different temperature balances and modes to transport from one place to another. Using the proper transportation mode ensures the safety and freshness of the consumable goods. That is why the service providers utilize a variety of Temperature controlled shipping methods that fits the category of interests.
Besides learning more about Temperature controlled shipping, we will also discuss the various methods that go into it.
Firstly, Temperature controlled shipping is also termed refrigerated shipping or cold shipping. Whatever the name is, all of them are the same and deliver cold chain services.
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Temperature Controlled Shipping
Temperature-controlled shipping is the transportation or delivery of goods that must be kept at a specific temperature until they reach their destination. If there is even a minor imbalance with the Temperature of the carrier, the goods will be spoiled and become unsafe for consumption.
Especially in the case of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, even a tiny difference in the Temperature would make the medications wholly useless and unusable. That is why a particular shipping method is used when transporting sensitive medicines like vaccines, clinical tests, and lifesaving medical supplies.
Irrespective of the goods category, if they require unique temperature settings to keep safe and in proper conditions, any necessary temperature-controlled settings must be set before going into transit.
Temperature-controlled shipping needs two essentials before execution. They are a proper air circulation system and air-tight special vehicles that would prevent outside contact with the insides. If the goods require a refrigerated environment even during storage, loading, and unloading, it should be done in authorized areas.
Logistics companies who provide such services usually offer almost everything that might be necessary for temperature-controlled shipping. There is even a packaging system for additional safety and protection of the goods.
Types of Temperature controlled packaging.
The unique packaging for Temperature controlled shipping varies depending on the goods’ nature and transportation system. Commonly used materials include:
- Refrigerated container – Cold containers with temperature set acts like a portable room that protects the goods during distribution and transportation.
- Cardboard – Cardboard is the most common packaging material for shipping anything. It is pretty resistant, flexible, and affordable as well. Since it is not compatible with Temperature-controlled shipping standalone, it is combined with other durable materials.
- Dry shippers – These are unique packaging materials used only for transporting goods that require extreme cooling conditions.
- Aluminized foam – Aluminium in itself is an insulating material. Wrapping the goods or package with aluminized foam adds an extra layer of protection against changing temperatures.
- Ice packs – To keep the goods cold, ice packs are inserted into the package. These packs come in gel form, not solid.
- Polyurethane – Polyurethane is a plastic-type material that has high-insulating properties.
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Types of Temperature controlled shipping methods.
- Refrigerated warehouses and trailers
Refrigerated warehouses and trailers are the ideal options for goods that need to be kept in a temperature-controlled environment 24/7. Not many logistics companies offer refrigerated trailers or warehouses. So, if you need one, look carefully for a reliable one. Nowadays, Temperature controlled shipping also provides a tracking option.
- Styrofoam coolers.
Styrofoam coolers are one of the oldest refrigerated shipping solutions. As it is reusable and inexpensive, styrofoam is an excellent insulator method. If not alone, it can be combined with dry ice and gel packs to enhance the cooling properties.
- Blankets and drum heaters.
Cargo refrigeration at the right temperature balance is the main focus of most Temperature controlled shipping. However, if the outside Temperature is also cold and freezing, blankets and drum heaters are used to prevent the cargo from falling temperatures after a certain level.
- Refrigerant gel packs
Refrigerant gel packs used during Temperature controlled shipping are reusable. These gel packs can be frozen, melted, and re-frozen again. That is possible due to the phase change materials in them. These gel packs provide extra cooling while the goods are in transit. What’s more interesting is that refrigerant gel packs are eco-friendly.
- Dry ice
Solidified carbon dioxide, known as dry ice, is used for heavy-duty refrigerated shipping of goods. They are non-toxic materials and can maintain extreme coldness for a long time. However, precautions must be maintained when using dry ice as it burns the skin when it comes in contact.
All in all, refrigerated shipping is the new and significant shipping solution in today’s age.