There are various obstacles to overcome when packing perishable goods for transport.
For over 30 years, AirPack has offered perishable packing as one of its key services. No matter the method of transport that a perishable item requires, there are a number of complex challenges to overcome. Successfully overcoming these challenges, relating to the essential supplies you need and the guidelines to follow, will be explored in this blog. Please read on to learn more about the keys to perishable packing with AirPack.
Essential Supplies for Perishable Products and Perishable Packing
As we list on our own site, there are some essential supplies that are needed. When it comes to perishable products and perishable packing, you may need to consider using the following:
- Refrigeration: Refrigeration during transport is critical, especially for some products in the medical and pharmaceutical industries.
- Dry Ice: While useful as a refrigerant, dry ice is also classified as a dangerous good or hazardous material when air or vessel transport is considered necessary.
- Gel packs: Also known as gel coolants, gel packs are lighter than using dry ice and are not as prone to leaking.
- Insulated packaging: Insulation will prevent or reduce heat loss or heat penetration.
- Temperature monitoring technologies: These technologies will ensure that temperature changes can be tracked. Certain perishable items must be kept at certain temperatures to ensure their integrity and/or freshness upon arrival at their destinations.
Some Guidelines for Perishable Packing
Now, we will discuss some basic guidelines for perishable packing. These guidelines will ensure the safety and integrity of your perishable products both while they are in transit and once they arrive at their final destination.
- Orienting Packages: Be sure that your packaging will be able to endure different orientations that the package may encounter while it is in transit. Sometimes the packages might be tipped over on their side, or upside-down. To prevent damages, be sure all sides of the packaging container are given equal amounts of padding and insulation.
- Refrigerant Use: Temperatures are an important factor to remember when preparing perishable packing. Be sure that whatever refrigerant you choose to use, it keeps the product in the temperature range that is called for. For instance, gel packs are better for refrigeration, while dry ice is better used for items that should be kept frozen.
- Insulated Packaging: Packaging and containers should be insulated, as well. At a minimum, the walls for any packaging and containers should be 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
- Melting and Thawing: For any items that could melt or thaw, or items containing liquids, be sure to use bags that are both plastic and watertight. They must be at least 2 mL deep.
- Venting: Dry ice emits carbon dioxide gas. Using packaging that can breathe, such as fiberboard boxes, and not tightly sealing with tape all the way around eliminates the buildup of gases within the package.
Contact Airpack Today For Your Perishable Packing Needs
We’re pioneers in our industry for over 30 years and can assist you with your perishable packing needs. We are able to meet any and all of your perishable packing needs. Our trained professional staff is here to help you with your questions about perishable packing.
Feel free to Contact Us today or email us at info@airpack.com. Our fax number is 410-768-6603. You can also find and follow us on social media and be sure to subscribe to our blog to receive additional important postings concerning perishable packing and other services Airpack provides. We look forward to hearing from you soon.