Shipping perishables

Can Paints Freeze When They’re Being Shipped?


By March 28, 2023 No Comments

with So, you’re in the shipping business, and normally, you transport things that do not need to be protected from the temperatures. However, you received an order to carry paint recently. Freezing temps are expected throughout the journey, so you have some concerns. The question then becomes, “Now what?”. You need a passive pallet cover.

The following types of paints can freeze when they’re being shipped if shippers aren’t careful. Hence, if you want to keep issues at bay, you may need to take some extra precautions. For example, a passive pallet cover could be the perfect solution if you only transport a pallet of paint that can freeze once in a while. Meanwhile, if a full trailer load is on the agenda, maybe a thermal blanket will be a better fit.

Regardless of whether you’re in the market for a passive pallet cover, insulated container blanket, or other thermal insulation solutions, stick around after reading about some different types of paints that can freeze. Then, we’ll tell you where to get the high-quality cold chain packaging options you desire.

Water-Based Latex Paint

As the name implies, water-based latex paint is primarily water-based. Thus, when these products are subjected to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, they are susceptible to freezing. Sometimes, water-based latex paints can freeze and thaw multiple times without any issues arising. However, on other occasions, like when a can freezes one too many times, the emulsion of the paint can ruin.

Acrylic Paints

Water-based pigments are what acrylic paints are. Therefore, like water-based latex paints, they can freeze. Some manufacturers take this into account and factor freeze/thaw sessions into their formulas. But what if the 11th time comes on your watch? An entire pallet or truckload of paint could get destroyed, leaving you on the hook for the financial loss. So, make it a point to protect your acrylic paint shipments from freezing temperatures with a passive pallet cover.

Oil-Based Paints

Some people believe that oil-based paints cannot freeze, but this assumption is false. Oil-based paints have way less water in them than their water-based counterparts, but they are susceptible to freezing. Oil-based paints made with linseed oil freeze at about -4 degrees Fahrenheit.  That isn’t the case for all oil-based paints, though. Some products feature different oil bases and freeze near -74 degrees.

Are you ready to order a stellar passive pallet cover, a thermal quilt, or something else? Don’t delay any longer. Instead, contact Protek Cargo to speak with a representative today.