Cold Chain Shipping
Cold Chain Shipping refers to the transportation of products that require a particular temperature or storage that is drastically different from normal temperature of shipping of goods. It is carried out by setting up a supply chain that can transport products through thermal and refrigerated packing methods; the logistics are specially made to protect the integrity of the shipment. There are many ways via which cold chain products can be transported: refrigerated rail cars, trucks or cargo ships and even by air.
The management of a cold chain freight is a complex process because any lack in any function can mean that entire shipments which can cost millions can get damaged. It requires time and coordination and frequent check to ensure that the shipment reaches in pure condition. Delays can have huge repercussions as well, especially if the goods being transported are perishable ones. The cold chain, if done properly can be of great help especially to the pharmaceutical, medical and food industries. Technologically, the process requires a lot of effort: preparing, storing, transporting and monitoring goods in temperature- controlled environments is no easy task.
In terms of economics, the cold chain shipping industry is a thriving market that allows many countries to partake of the global supply market. This way, one can savor the advantages of goods that might be exotic or those, which are not manufactured in one’s native country. Regionally, it can contribute towards the setting up of cold storage facilities in towns and cities. It also ensures the timely distribution of perishable products to local areas.
Technologies:
Cold Chain shipping allows a variety of products to be shipped across countries and cities. The temperature requirements of each vary a lot and the level of maintenance is different for each as well. Any error can cause irrevocable damage: the product might perish or lose its market or use value. Thus, the kind of refrigeration being used and the monitoring of the same is very important. The major and most popularly used technologies for the shipping of such products include:
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Reefers: Reefers are temperature- controlled transportation units or vehicles like a van, a small truck, a small trailer etc. They are insulated and specially made for air circulation at the right temperature. It can keep cargo both cool and warm.
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Gel packs: These are used mainly for medical and pharmaceutical shipments. Gel packs contain phase changing substances that can go from solid to liquid or vice- versa as required to control the environment.
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Dry Ice: Sold Carbon Dioxide, at about -80 °C can keep a shipment frozen for a very long time. It does not melt but sublimates when it comes in contact with air. It is used a lot in air transportation.
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Liquid Nitrogen: At about -196 °C, it can keep packages frozen for even longer. Thus, it is mainly used to transport biological cargo like tissues or organs. It is beneficial but also hazardous and thus, has to be handled with extreme caution.
In New Jersey, JSK Transportation is an ideal option for cold chain shipping services. They are amongst the best carriers with reasonable rates.