Using insulated boxes is an economical method of shipping perishable goods that require consistent temperature such as medical supplies and food stuff. The insulation properties of these simple boxes keep the temperature inside consistent throughout shipping, thereby ensuring that the contents arrive at their destination in good condition.
Insulated containers, usually made from polystyrene foam or Styrofoam, are light-weight and come in a variety of sizes. They can be re-used for several shipments as long as they are used properly. They are widely available from packing supplies stores and even in supermarkets. Some even come with an accompanying cardboard box for double boxing. Here some packing tips on how to use insulated containers when shipping perishable items.
When shipping frozen items or goods that need to remain cold, temperature maintaining agents such as cold gel packs and dry ice can be used in order to keep the temperature constant. Dry ice is mostly used to keep items frozen while cold packs are useful for packages that requires cool temperature but not frozen. The amount of gel packs or dry ice required to keep the package in the right temperature will depend on the size of the container as well as the temperature at which you wish to keep your item.
Choose an insulated container that can accommodate your perishable items with extra space for the temperature maintaining agents. After placing the items inside, fill any void spaces with sufficient packing materials to avoid movements and jostling. If shipping stuff in glass containers, wrap each jar or bottle with several layers of bubble wrap to prevent breakage.
Do not over fill the box to ensure that the lid will fit properly. Make sure that the insulated container is closed and well-sealed with packaging tape to prevent the cold temperature inside from escaping.
To protect the insulated container from damage caused by rough handling, double box it in a sturdy cardboard box. Fill any space between the Styrofoam box and the cardboard box with fillers to prevent movement. Seal the cardboard box with packaging tape.
Learning how to use these insulated boxes can make a big difference for anyone who needs to ship or transport goods at a particular temperature.