Harsh weather and temperature fluctuations are two factors that can cause severe damage to goods during the shipping process. Thankfully, using insulated shipping boxes can eliminate most of the potential adverse effects these conditions can bring about.
They also provide many other benefits ensuring goods get to their destination in good condition. It’s a feat that every supplier hopes to achieve. You probably do too. Read on to find out how insulated shipping boxes can make this possible.
What Are Insulated Shipping Boxes?
Insulated shipping boxes are used to transport items with specific temperature requirements. They’re usually made of polystyrene foam or styrofoam and come in various sizes. Styrofoam has tiny air bubbles that prevent heat from flowing through it. This feature makes it an excellent insulator to protect the contents inside—no matter how the items require its safe-keeping during shipment.
Many of these styrofoam containers also have a cardboard casing that helps protect the foam. These boxes are widely used as they’re ideal for transporting temperature-sensitive items such as:
- Food items
- Chemicals
- Pharmaceuticals
- Vaccines
Suppliers may add cold packs containing refrigerants to maintain a desired temperature for extra protection.
Benefits of Insulated Shipping Boxes
A spoiled shipment can cost you money and leave your customers dissatisfied with your service. Insulated boxes can help you maintain high-quality items. They’ll help you get them to your customers in perfect condition. Here are some other benefits of using insulated boxes for shipping:
1. Keeps Products Fresh
Whether you’re shipping food items or pharmaceuticals, using a refrigerated shipping box can help maintain the integrity of your product. It keeps frozen items at a consistent temperature. You won’t have to worry about them melting or thawing out. This makes it an ideal option for shipping food items such as pastries, seafood, and meats.
2. Lightweight
Styrofoam has a density of between one to two pounds per cubic foot. This means even larger frozen shipping box options are still light. This can drastically reduce shipping costs which is a plus if you ship heavier items frequently.
3. Reusable
Many insulated shipping boxes are made out of 100% recyclable materials. This will allow your company to continue to demonstrate its eco-friendly values through the use of containers that are also reusable. There’s no need to worry about disposal costs; you won’t have to stockpile large quantities. But storage wouldn’t be an issue, as they’re stackable whether empty or full. You can also pair your boxes with eco-friendly ice packs for ultimate sustainability.
4. Durable
Frozen food shipping boxes are made to withstand the rigors of the shipping and handling process. The molded foam prevents the box’s contents from being crushed or broken. Many of them also have tight-fitted lids and are encased in corrugated cardboard for added protection.
5. Variety of Sizes
Food shipping boxes with insulation come in various sizes, accommodating almost any product type. There’s packaging to hold fresh meat, a cake, or pastries. You simply need to order the dimensions based on the products you supply.
6. Accommodates Refrigerants
Most insulated shipping boxes easily accommodate refrigerants, regardless of the type you decide to use. Packing your shipping boxes should be quick and hassle-free; labeling them is just as easy.
Insulated Shipping Boxes: Best Practices
Every supplier hopes their goods get to their customers in one piece and in good condition. Using insulated shipping boxes is the first step to achieving this. However, you can take some additional measures to optimize their usage. This helps ensure your goods and your reputation remain protected.
Some perishable shipping boxes may include built-in refrigerants. However, many don’t. But it is crucial to ensure your goods stay at the required temperature.
If you’re using shipping boxes without this, you’ll need to get insulated packaging for food. This can include a cold pack or foam brick. These contain water-based refrigerants with gel components that thicken the refrigerant. This helps it to freeze and retain this temperature throughout the shipping process. They’re available in various sizes, allowing you to choose solutions most appropriate for the type of products you supply.
Once you’ve decided on the best refrigerant solution, ensure that you:
- Use cold shipping boxes that are an appropriate size
- Package each item being shipped in plastic wrapping
- Eliminate any spaces within the container by filling them with bubble wrap or packing peanuts
- Seal the container well, and don’t forget to label it
A Solution That Safeguards Your Goods with Pelton Shepherd
Insulated shipping boxes provide the perfect means for suppliers to get their goods to customers. When used properly, they can ensure items shipped arrive in good condition. However, achieving this also requires the use of refrigerant solutions. It’s essential, especially if you’re shipping food items that must remain frozen.
Pelton Shepherd provides a variety of shipping ice packs to suit your shipping needs. Contact us today to find out how we can safeguard your goods.
