There are some items that must be kept at a specific temperature throughout the shipping process. Examples of these temperature sensitive packages include medical products; fresh foods such as meat, fruit, or dairy products; manufacturing components; and wine.
We turned to Boston’s best shipping store for tips and advice on sending temperature-sensitive packages. Here’s what they had to say:
When you’re sending temperature-sensitive packages, what you really need is an end to end strategy for keeping those products chilled properly throughout. Sometimes the answer is frozen gel packs in a insulated mailer, but sometimes more sophisticated services are required. This can include refrigerated and cold shipping services, with coordinated pick up and delivery for cold chain transportation.
Choose well insulated packaging. Cold shipping requires an insulated container and a coolant to keep the product either frozen or chilled, as desired. There are a variety of packaging options available. When choosing, make sure the packaging is durable as well as well insulated. Coolants need to be properly contained and secure within the package – use bubble wrap to prevent excess motion of coolants.
Take advantage of the expertise at your local pack and send provider. They’re the ones who work every day with the different freight carriers. They’re the ones who understand what services are available, included expedited and overnight deliveries. They’re also the ones who can help you find the most affordable way to send your temperature sensitive package.
Stay out of the warehouse. Generally, cold shipments should be in transit no longer than 30 hours. Choose expedited or overnight shipping to ensure timely delivery. Whenever possible, avoid shipping during times of peak demand – the week before Christmas, for example – or immediately in advance of a holiday weekend.
Tracking information for both sender & recipient is essential. Minimize the stress of sending temperature sensitive packages with shipment tracking from drop off to delivery.