Packaging tips and insights for Cold Chain parcel shipments

Did you know Cold Chain parcel shipping involves transporting temperature-sensitive products like pharmaceuticals and perishable foods, ensuring they remain within a specific temperature range from origin to destination.

I recently spoke with Dusty Andes , a packaging industry veteran, to discuss some of the challenges and tips for Cold Chain parcel shippers. Here’s what he shared:

Common Challenges:

“What are the most common challenges faced by cold chain shippers when using last mile delivery carriers?”

Dusty: On time delivery is among the biggest challenges for Cold Chain.  Last mile carriers play a vital role in this phase.  Having a reliable network of last delivery carriers allows the shipper to design a package that is best suited to maintain the product’s efficacy.  To design a pack that has the necessary performance, price and sustainability, we rely on the carrier’s ability to consistently deliver on time.  It also has a huge impact on the carbon footprint of each package.  We can drastically reduce materials/cost if we have confidence in the prescribed delivery time frame.

Preventing Temperature Fluctuations:

“What measures can shippers take to ensure their packages are handled appropriately to prevent any temperature fluctuations during last mile delivery?”

Dusty: Diversify your testing.  Chamber testing, Field (lane) testing, Computer simulation, Weather modules, Temp cards, Interior/Exterior heat exposures, etc.  The industry has many tools that can be used to ensure your pack out is tested from every angle.  Another great tip is to NOT allow temperature excursions when testing.  This will allow your pack to be perform during unexpended delays and extreme heat/cold.

Role of Technology:

“What role does technology play in ensuring the success of cold chain parcel deliveries?”

Dusty: Technology can lead to better information and understanding.  The data that is collected from shipments can help us evaluate the pack design.  Technology has also given us the ability consider “Active” cooling solutions in lieu of “Passive.”  Although there is a cost to this technology, it allows us to put product efficacy as the #1 goal. Our carriers provide us a lot of data to help influence the product design.

Impact of Packaging Materials:

“What impact does the selection of packaging materials and methods have on the success of cold chain parcel shipments?”

Dusty: Package materials selection can be overwhelming, and you do have to be careful of “Greenwashing.” Shippers need to clearly define their goals of Performance, Price, Sustainability, before materials selection.  The influx of new packaging materials has fostered enhanced competition in the market.  10 years ago if you wanted to be sustainable, it would cost 2 x or 3 x.  Now you can be cost neutral and not sacrifice performance. 

Advice:

“As we look ahead into the next year, is there one piece of advice for cold chain parcel logistics professionals that you want to share?”

Dusty: Create a mission statement for your Cold Chain Carrier Networks that includes your commitment to helping to maintain product integrity.  Work with industry partners to understand the up stream challenges that occur before shipment.

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