If you run a food business or simply want to send similar food items somewhere, you already know they come with complexities. Especially when shipping, perishable goods are exposed to different and quite unpredictable temperature conditions. What you can do on your part to protect the goods is to focus on proper packaging and storage conditions when shipping.

This article will list some essential tips you need to consider when shipping perishable goods.

Utilize Effective Insulated Packaging

The right packaging is the ultimate foundation for shipping your perishables safely and with unaffected quality. Always opt for insulated packaging qualified to keep your perishable goods at the desired temperature throughout the shipping duration.

For example, in some countries, all raw protein perishable food items should reach their destination at a maximum of 40 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas injectable medications should maintain a temperature of 2-8C.

Likewise, ensure the type of your perishable good has insulated packaging that meets the minimum temperature requirements. Choose insulated containers that suit the type of product being shipped and the transit duration. You can choose from insulated box liners, insulated bags, pouches, or an insulated pallet cover, depending on the product you are shipping. These packaging materials are easily available from shipping and storage companies.

Add Refrigerant Cold Packs To Enhance Performance

Add refrigerant materials like frozen gel packs into your packaging. These cold packs are made of non-toxic acrylic gel and phase change materials (PCMs) that can maintain various temperatures, which is ideal for shipping goods.

They are mostly used for industrial and high-end food shipments and other medical and pharmaceutical applications. The number of cold packs you use will decide how cold your package gets and how long it can stay cold – more like a climate-controlled storage.

Dry ice can also be used to refrigerate your frozen products. But, remember there is a limit to how many pounds of dry ice you can use in a single package because off-gassing is considered toxic CO².

Choose The Appropriate Delivery Option

Whichever international shipping company you choose, a good rule to follow when sending perishables is to note the exact time for each shipment. This will help you determine the time you need to protect the packages.

Remember that if your transit falls on a Thursday or Friday, it will sit in the warehouse before it reaches the final destination. Similarly, if the transit falls on a weekend, it may be delayed by 24-48 hours until delivery.

Label Packages Appropriately

Always label all packages properly when shipping items. Mention labels like “Perishable” and “Keep refrigerated” to ensure the packages are not left in storage space with high temperatures for too long. You can also write a detailed description of the storage and temperature requirements and the recipient’s details. Make sure the recipient knows how exactly to store the package, is it just to refrigerate or pop it in the freezer immediately upon delivery.

Choice Of Carrier

Last but not least, when choosing a carrier to ship perishable goods, make sure they offer offer speedy and seamless delivery, which will be vital to maintaining the freshness of your goods. A reliable and professional carrier should be able to give you the specific shipping option you need. This includes overnight, next-day delivery, and a refrigerated shipping unit- called a reefer.