Have you ordered perishable food products online and received them in a state that’s no longer fresh or healthy to consume? Unfortunately, this is a reality for many people who order perishable goods online, as improper transportation and storage can easily damage the quality of these products.
Cold-chain packaging is essential to ensure the safe transport of perishable goods. Various materials and technologies are available that help maintain the cold chain during transit.
As cold-chain logistics experts, we take a look at some materials and technologies needed for safe transportation, as well as some common challenges.
Materials for Cold-Chain Packaging
The materials used in cold-chain packaging must be able to withstand various environmental conditions such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, and rough handling. Some commonly used materials for cold-chain packaging include expanded polystyrene (EPS), polyurethane (PU), and vacuum-insulated panels (VIP).
EPS and PU are affordable materials and are widely used due to their insulating properties. VIP is a more advanced material with superior insulation properties but is more expensive than EPS and PU in cold chain logistics.
Technologies for Cold-Chain Packaging
Various technologies are available to maintain the cold chain during transit that can help regulate and monitor the temperature.
One such technology is phase change materials (PCM), which absorb heat during the day and release it at night, thus maintaining the temperature inside the packaging.
Another technology is active temperature control, which uses battery-powered sensors to monitor and adjust the temperature inside the packaging. This technology is particularly useful for the long-distance transport of perishable goods and is commonly used by cold chain logistics services.
In addition to these technologies, smart packaging solutions are available that use IoT sensors to monitor various aspects of the packaging, such as temperature, humidity, and location. These sensors provide real-time data, which can be used to make informed decisions about transporting and storing perishable goods.
Challenges in Cold Chain Packaging
Despite the availability of various materials and technologies for cold chain logistics services, including packaging, several challenges still need to be addressed. One of the biggest challenges is the cost of cold-chain packaging, which can be significantly higher than traditional packaging. This cost can be a barrier for small businesses and may prevent them from entering the e-commerce market.
Another challenge is the lack of standardization in cold-chain packaging. Different countries have different regulations and guidelines for transporting and storing perishable goods, which can lead to confusion and inconsistency in cold-chain logistics.
Looking For a Reliable Cold Chain Logistics Partner?
With a reliable cold-chain logistics partner, you can have peace of mind that your cold-chain shipment is in competent hands. Beam Logistics, one of the leading providers of high-value shipping services, can be the perfect choice for your cold-chain logistics needs.
As an experienced player in the industry, we offer a wide range of shipping services, including cross-border shipments, cold-chain logistics, and logistics for the pharmaceutical industry. Our extensive expertise and reliable network of logistics professionals ensure that your valuable goods are handled with the utmost care and attention throughout the shipping process.
If you’re looking for a logistics provider that can deliver top-notch cold-chain logistics services, look no further. Contact us today!