For many years prior, the only temperature control that was needed when shipping pharmaceuticals was cold chain storage. With an increased presence in the global marketplace the past few years, government regulators and quality-control managers have become more concerned with shipments that must be kept at a controlled room temperature (CRT). No longer are the days when products can be shipped in basic packaging; instead, measures must be taken to ensure that products remain within their controlled room temperature range.
How Do Cold Chain And CRT Differ?
As more regulations are introduced by governments and individual companies, it’s important to understand the two main differences between cold chain shipping options and controlled room temperature options.
- The Temperature Itself – Cold chain typically refers to products that are shipped in a range of 35 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit. Controlled room temperature is much more ambiguous. The temperature ranges for the product can typically be found on the label. Each product may have a different temperature range, which can complicate logistics if you have a large order comprised of many different pharmaceuticals.
- Established Processes – It’s been necessary to protect cold chain products for many years, which means the methods for doing so are well-established and understood. The regulations and controls over the controlled temperature methods are evolving and changing each day.
Knowing the differences between the two can make a huge difference in whether your shipment arrives as intended or not. There are different products and methods used for temperature control, each serving a different purpose. Pharmaceuticals are expensive, and choosing the wrong shipping option can prove very costly.
Blankets Can Be Used To Promote CRT
Blankets are one of the most effective ways to reach the desired controlled room temperature result during the shipping process. The Insulating Cargo Blanket from SureTemp is one of the most reliable and popular methods used by our customers to find temperature stability. The blankets can trap warmth, but also have a foil layer that reflects IR radiation to help maintain the proper temperature ranges. With a lifespan of approximately a decade, blankets are a great investment that can help protect your pharmaceutical assets for years to come.
