There’s nothing new when speaking about the cold chain shipping management disruption that took place in 2020 during the Covid-19 outbreak. Freight prices increased, transportation routes became a challenge and certain limitations were placed on cargo space. This is what everyone involved in the supply chain went through. In the process of finding efficient cold chain logistics, supply chain managers are adjusting themselves, and the technology is progressing.
Given the fact that global supply chains are becoming more and more uncertain, it is very important to work with reliable suppliers and partners for a seamless shipment process. Even though this journey might be challenging at times, it should not affect the cold chain process. Here are 4 essential factors to take into consideration for the management and shipment of your cold chain.
1. Chilled Packaging: Choosing the right one that suits your needs
When speaking about time-sensitive products, the proper temperature-controlled packaging system required to keep an optimal temperature remains essential for the supply chain process. The packaging system needs to keep your products safe and in pristine condition during the entire transportation process, from the moment they get picked up until they get delivered. Other factors that should be considered are the overall transit time, size, content, and seasonality of the shipment.
The most up-to-date cooling technologies include PCMs, gel packs, dry ice, and liquid nitrogen. The temperature requirement is based on the products that need to be shipped. Some products require a temperature of -70 degC, or need to be kept at temperatures between +2 and +8 degC.
2. Refrigerated transport: Perfect delivery and distribution
Even though globalization has made the world smaller, physical distance between locations remains a fundamental reality. A trusted logistics company needs to have a well-set up strategy, for transporting perishable products by land, sea, or train while keeping a constant temperature. Active and Passive cold chain transportation systems, refrigerated trucks, and reefer units are a few examples. When properly configured, these systems will have the necessary insulated systems to keep the required product temperatures throughout the shipping voyage.
3. Real time monitoring: Setting up systems for shipment tracking
Real-time tracking of temperature-controlled logistics is becoming common thanks to recent technological improvements. Depending on the logistics partner, tracking frequently requires utilizing the Internet of Things (IoT), as well as other sensor devices, such as GPS trackers, to find certain goods in the supply chain and minimize loss. When such predefined parameters are broken, tracking technologies can transmit immediate alerts, giving involved stack holders plenty of time to react.
4. Rules and Regulations: Regulatory compliance for a seamless shipment
There are some rules when it comes to transporting perishable products. It is essential to keep up with the customs paperwork and clearance files to avoid delays, additional expenses, and other setbacks. You should be aware that documents differ when shipping internationally and it is recommended to hire a trusted logistics partner to handle them efficiently.
