Summer and the time leading into the holidays create months of hustle that move various amounts of product through warehouses and shipping stations.
As the summer in Texas begins to heat up, ensuring that your consumer-ordered perishables arrive fresh and in optimal condition becomes crucial.
At GFS Logistics, we believe in providing your clients with quality products, no matter their level of delicacy! Let’s examine some valuable tips to help you and your warehousing team maintain the freshness of your perishable items during packing and shipping.
What are the Challenges of Summer Shipping?
When it comes to shipping perishable goods during the summer, high temperatures can pose significant challenges. Heat can accelerate the spoilage process and compromise the quality of your products.
Additionally, improper packaging and shipping methods can further exacerbate the risks associated with summer shipping. However, these challenges can be overcome with the right logistics solutions and warehouse management.
While not every warehouse has the capability to provide temperature control, there are several steps that can be taken to get perishables shipped safely along the way.
Select the Right Packaging Materials
Choosing appropriate packaging materials is essential for preserving the freshness of perishable goods. Cardboard boxes and plastic wrap won’t do the trick. In order to maintain the integrity of perishable goods, your logistics team must invest in Insulated containers, gel packs, and dry ice.
Different types of perishable goods require specific shipping considerations. Here are some best practices for commonly shipped perishable goods.
Fruits and vegetables should be packed in breathable containers. Consider using ethylene-absorbing packets to prolong freshness.
When handling dairy products, maintain a consistent temperature below 37°F and avoid exposing them to temperature fluctuations if possible.
Safe seafood shipping requires insulated packaging with gel packs or dry ice to maintain a cold environment.
Maintain Optimal Temperature Control
As we mentioned earlier, not every warehouse will have temperature control settings in place, finding a logistics team that can track down the perfect shipping partner is paramount.
After all, while perishables won’t be in a warehouse long, temperature control plays a crucial role in keeping perishables fresh during a distant shipping journey.
Make sure you work with a shipping partner that will monitor and maintain the appropriate temperature throughout the journey.
When interviewing shipping providers for perishable items, ask about their use of temperature-monitoring devices and data loggers to ensure temperature stability.
As an extra measure, before your items even leave the loading dock, pre-cool perishables and avoid direct sunlight exposure throughout the picking and packing process.
Enforce Proper Handling and Storage Procedures
Getting perishables safely in the hands of customers starts with thoughtful warehouse storage solutions.
As you unload and pack perishable items, ensure that your packaging includes clear labeling and handling instructions. Labeling your perishable items should include the following information:
- Proper storage temperature for the perishable products
- The address and phone number of both the shipper and recipient
- Labeling the packaging as “Perishable-Keep Refrigerated”
Taking the extra steps to label your items this way helps make both storage and transit a breeze. When your couriers have a clear label, they can take proper precautions to avoid cross-contamination and maintain proper airflow. Following these guidelines will help safeguard the quality and freshness of your perishables.
Timely Delivery and Communication
Timely delivery is crucial to prevent spoilage of perishable items. Therefore, especially if you are in a transloading situation with your shipping, effective communication between the logistics company, shipper, and recipient is essential.
Establish clear communication channels and tracking mechanisms to ensure smooth coordination and successful delivery. Proactive communication can help address any potential issues and ensure the timely arrival of your perishables.
Keep Your Perishables Fresh, With GFS Logistics
As you prepare to pack and ship perishable goods during the summer, following these tips will help ensure the freshness and quality of your items upon arrival. At GFS Logistics, we understand the unique challenges of summer shipping and can help you find solutions beyond temperature control that meet your needs.
Whether your goods are perishable or not, we have you covered, from superior warehouse management to finding the right route for your goods. Don’t hesitate to contact our team for professional assistance with your shipping requirements. Together, we can ensure a successful delivery every time.
Schedule your next delivery with us today!
