To the laymen, beverages are easy to ship and store as long as they are sealed in their containers. While beverages are indeed less sensitive than, for instance, fruits, shipping beverages also present challenges. Here are some things to consider when shipping beer, wine, liquor, and soda, and why they benefit from insulated packaging.
Product Damage During Shipping
Product safety is one of the top priorities of beverage companies when it comes to shipping. Beverage companies must take extra precautions to pack their products in the best material to keep their products from leaking or spoiling, while making it appealing to consumers. Beverages are often stored in glasses, PET bottles, or aluminum cans which, while are durable to a certain extent, may break during transportation. Meanwhile, they also have to pack their products for shipping. Secondary packaging requires other considerations, such as protecting products from physical damage, humidity, temperature changes, and spoilage. Overall, beverage companies allot a significant amount for packaging alone.
However, another factor that beverage companies have to consider in their supply chains are the weather and temperature. Different beverages have different requirements. Wines need to be stored between 52-57˚F to prevent changes in its chemical structure, as well as prevent the cork from being pushed out or the bottle from exploding. Liquor, on the other hand, needs to be shipped between 55-65 ˚F to keep the liquid from expanding, leaking, and potentially, spoiling; while beers are best kept between 37-46 ˚F to stay fresh. Overall, for most beverages, including sodas and fruit juices, extreme temperatures are to be avoided to prevent them from freezing or building up pressure from inside.
Using Insulated Packaging For Extreme Weather Changes
Beverage companies typically invest in plastic wraps, wood pallets or plastic cases to protect their products during shipping. However, another way to protect the quality of their products is through insulated packaging. These are lightweight materials that serve as an additional barrier to protect beverages from heat transfer during shipping. Pallet covers go over a stack of bottles, covering it completely while it is shipped. While inside the insulated packaging, the beverage stays in a stable temperature regardless of the weather or temperature outside.
Shipping beverages at the optimal temperature helps ensure the highest quality for consumers. ProtekCargo offers innovative solutions to common shipping problems. Contact us to learn more about different insulated packaging options.
