Many people believe the only benefit that comes from insulated packaging is in protecting temperature-sensitive products that have been removed from an environmentally controlled space, like a reefer unit. However, while that is one way insulated packaging can help in cold chain logistics, it’s not the only way. There are other areas and situations in which cold chain logistics can breach proper temperature management. Here are some of the most common ways.
Read more: Four Ways Cold Chain Logistics Are BreachedImproper Pre-Cooling
Things can go wrong right from the start. The best way to ensure the optimal shipping temperature is to cool products down to that desired temperature during the packing stage. Some suppliers fail to do this, and if this occurs from the very beginning, the products are at risk from the outset.
Stacking
Another area where temperature-sensitive products may be at risk is during the loading and packing stage. A reefer unit relies on air circulation to equally distribute chilled air throughout the space. However, if products are not loaded into a reefer unit correctly, this can impact the airflow, resulting in uneven distribution of cool air and the formation of warm or hotspots within the reefer unit. Insulated packaging, however, can often negate this problem.
Proper Temperature Maintenance
It may not seem like it would be an issue, but mistakes do happen. Sometimes, particularly when multiple shipments are consolidated, a reefer unit may not be set to maintain the ideal shipping temperature. Pharmaceuticals, for example, have a preferred temperature range for shipping, while wine has another, and so does chocolate. If the temperature is not appropriately maintained for the specific product, then this can have a major impact on the viability of the cargo.
Frequent Door Opening
A final factor that people often forget about is the frequency of doors being opened to a reefer unit. Every time the door is opened, warm air rushes in to attempt to equalize the temperature. During shipping, the number of times the door to the reefer unit is opened should be kept to the absolute minimum. This is another area where insulated packaging becomes crucial. Not every reefer unit is working in optimal condition, and sometimes temperature changes like this can take a long time to revert back to the intended shipping temperature. Insulated packaging protects products during these vulnerable periods.
If you’re shipping temperature-sensitive products and want to know what insulated packaging will safely transport them to their destination, we can help. Contact us to discuss your shipping needs and obtain a quote.
