advies · 16 January 2024

5 common mistakes in chilled shipping

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Cooled Solutions

Cooled Solutions · Nederlandse producent

A good cold chain packaging may seem like an easy choice, but in practice many shipments go wrong due to packaging that does not suit the shipment. Our advisors see the same mistakes repeatedly. Here are five that you can easily avoid.

1. Choosing a box that is too large

A common mistake: you choose a larger box to comfortably pack the contents. But insulation works by slowing down heat transfer — the more air around your product, the more heat needs to be blocked. A smaller box with less air inside is almost always better insulated. Our advice: choose a box that fits, not one that is too spacious.

2. Too few or too many ice packs

Many customers reason "more = better." But ice packs take up space and can freeze the contents when that is not intended. For 2-8 °C shipments that are only in transit for a few hours, a single gel pack may be sufficient. For longer transit times or summer temperatures, you can double the amount. When in doubt, ask our advisors.

3. Placing ice directly on the product

This may be acceptable for meat and fish, but for pharmaceutical products, chocolate, and some foods, direct contact with ice causes freeze damage. Place ice packs on the side or on top — not underneath or in direct contact.

4. Not using an absorption mat

For fish, meat, and plants, an absorption mat is not a luxury but a necessity. Melting ice and meat juices cause leaking boxes, complaints, and damage to your reputation. A few cents spent on absorption prevents many euros in damage.

5. Too light outer packaging

A cooler box is well insulated internally, but the outside must be sturdy enough for transport. An EPS box without protective cardboard can get dents during the first sorting. Always wrap it with a cardboard outer box or strong tape.