5 Common Mistakes in Chilled Shipping
Short answer: the five most common mistakes in chilled shipping are: choosing a box that is too large (more air = faster warming), dosing ice packs incorrectly, placing ice directly on frost-sensitive products, not using an absorbent pad, and using outer packaging that is too lightweight. Below is the solution for each mistake.
Good cold chain packaging may seem like a simple choice, but in practice many shipments go wrong because the packaging does not match the shipment. Our advisors see the same mistakes time and again.
1. Choosing a box that is too large
A common mistake: you choose a larger box to pack the contents comfortably. But insulation works by slowing heat transfer — the more air there is around your product, the more heat has to be kept out. A smaller box with less air inside is almost always better insulated. Our advice: choose a box that fits, not one with extra space.
2. Too few or too many ice packs
Many customers reason that "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 already be sufficient. For longer transit times or summer temperatures, you can double the quantity. If in doubt, ask our advisors.
3. Placing ice directly on the product
For meat and fish this may still be acceptable, but for pharmaceutical products, chocolate and some foods, direct contact with ice causes freeze damage. Place ice packs at the side or on top — not underneath or in direct contact.
4. Not using an absorbent pad
For fish, meat and plants, an absorbent pad is not a luxury but a necessity. Melting ice and meat juices cause leaking boxes, complaints and reputational damage. A few cents spent on absorption prevents many euros in damage.
5. Outer packaging that is too lightweight
A cooling box is well insulated internally, but the outside must be strong enough for transport. An EPS box without protective cardboard can already be dented during the first sorting process. Always wrap it in a cardboard outer box or strong tape.
Questions?
Our advisors have years of hands-on experience. Call +31 (0) 255 234 200 for advice tailored to your specific shipment.
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