The Challenges How to Ship Frozen Food - Overcome With Our Detailed Guide

Frozen food is such a convenient and quick way to put a proper meal on the table. Half of the work is already done for you. You just have to make it look presentable! Let's get into the shipping side of the frozen food packaging. In the article, we will discuss all about shipping frozen food. How much does it cost to ship frozen food overnight and what kind of packaging is the most suitable for the task?   

The Ultimate Temperature Control

Temperature control stands as the most essential factor when shipping frozen food. It is the main obstacle when transporting these products. Temperature variations result in product thawing or melting along the way. Which ruins the quality and may produce food-related health risks. Frozen food must stay below 32°F (0°C) for safety and to preserve the texture. The packaging for frozen food should be able to meet these conditions. 

Packaging Materials To Consider For Successful Insulating

Many solutions exist for insulated packaging for frozen foods. Different materials provide different degrees of insulation to the food. Here is a brief introduction to the most popular ones that are used.

• Polyurethane Materials

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) and polyurethane both have thermal insulation properties. They are used in making insulated shipping containers. That are great answer to the question of how to ship frozen food. They slow down the melting time by reducing heat transfer. EPS is the affordable route but polyurethane provides better thermal protection.

• Standard Corrugated Boxes

These boxes are used with insulated liners in them to ship frozen food. It includes foil-backed bubble wrap or foam. Corrugated boxes are very suitable for shipping. They can easily be made in any size because of their flexible design. They are also among the most used compostable food packaging. Good for the environment, good for the food!

• Vacuum Insulated Panels

The thinnest profile among insulation materials belongs to Vacuum Insulated Panels (VIPs). They provide exceptional thermal performance. These protective panels provide excellent insulation for longer distances. They can handle extreme temperature conditions but are an expensive option.  

• Gel Packs and Dry Ice

Gel Packs and Dry Ice are also used as temperature control methods. The reusable gel packs function well for shipments that need brief transit durations. Dry ice allows a cooling effect for a longer time through sublimation. It requires special attention because of the extreme temp range of -109.3°F or -78.5°C.  

• Phase Change Materials

The technology of Phase Change Materials allows these substances to regulate temperature stability. They use phase transition processes starting from solid to liquid. These products serve as reusable eco friendly substitutes for traditional coolents. Furthermore, food safety regulations and requirements must also be strictly followed. They detail how to properly transport food by maintaining temperatures and product labels.

Choosing The Right Shipping Method For Frozen Food

It is very important to choose the right way of shipping frozen food. It makes or breaks the delivery costs and product quality. Here are the three commonly used options.

• Ground Shipping

Ground shipping in insulated packaging is great for shorter distances. The refrigerants are suitable for time sensitive and cost effective delivery. This shipping process needs careful evaluation regarding both delivery duration and temperature variations. It is very suitable as frozen food packaging for small businesses that work in designated areas.

• Air Freight

Air freight delivery is the best option when transporting frozen food over longer distances. There are temperature controlled air cargo containers. They specialize in frozen food delivery and maintain the temperature levels during transport.  

• LTL or FTL Freight

LTL or FTL freight with refrigerated trucks (reefers) is used for larger shipments. The temperature within reefers stays stable thus protecting frozen food.

The Shipping Cost For Frozen Food

Now comes the most important question how much does it cost to ship frozen food overnight? The total expense of shipping frozen food varies greatly. Here are the factors that it depends upon.

• The distance between shipping points directly affects the total expenses.  
• Heavier and larger shipments incur higher costs for obvious reasons.  
• The shipping expenses increase due to insulated containers and refrigerants in the packaging.  
• Air freight costs are substantially higher than using ground shipping.  
• Dry ice functions well as a refrigerant but its cost exceeds the price of gel packs.
• The cost of expedited air freight further rises for faster transit times.  
• The rises or falls of demand based on seasonal patterns also affect shipping costs.
• International shipping requires additional fees for customs regulation procedures.  
• The distance matters but delivery to remote areas is further higher in general. 

Along with all the factors, sometimes shipment insurance also plays a part. It protects against temperature deviation and damage on the way. 

• Estimating Costs

To know exactly how much does it cost to ship frozen food overnight. It requires detailed information to determine the exact. You will need to pay more for shipping frozen food as compared to regular shipments. Overnight shipments include premium charges as well. Contact frozen food packaging companies in your area for further information. These are the specialists who can give a precise cost estimate of the packaging for frozen food. The shipping companies will further create customized pricing for your unique needs.

Ensure A Smooth and Safe Journey For Your Frozen Food

The frozen food requires full pre-chilling before the packaging process begins. It needs to be monitored on the way as well for successful shipment. Here are a few methods to keep it in check.

• Temperature Loggers should be used to track the shipment's temperature. They help verify that conditions stay within the required range.
• The package needs to display "Frozen" and mention the temperature requirements.
• The carrier should be given specific instructions about temperature maintenance and product handling.  
• Use a tracking system that allows you to monitor shipment progress. Take immediate action for potential delays.  
• Selection a company that is an expert in temperature-controlled shipping.

Successfully ship your frozen food with careful consideration. Deliver the best product quality for satisfied customers.

Conclusion

Preservation of frozen items depends heavily on packaging. The shipment of such packages requires precise execution and strict temperature control standards. Every step demands extra care about product quality and food safety. It is easily possible with the right materials and shipping methods. Contact Boxit Packages for all your custom box packaging needs. Get wholesale rates, extra discounts on bulk orders, and free delivery services all across the USA and Canada.

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