Shipping Goods With Dry Ice Versus Cold Ice Packs
Shipping temperature-sensitive goods is a concern for most businesses. Dry ice and cold packs are the potential options available in the market. This article explores the benefits of both these options and compares which one is the right choice for shipping.
Keeping temperature control is essential in shipping sensitive goods like chilled and frozen food items, pharmaceuticals, chocolates. The question is- what method of refrigeration is suitable for you? Dry ice packs in Perth are your primary option.
What is the Desired Temperature for Your Shipment?
Dry ice seems to be the best choice for perishable items that are needed to keep frozen. Dry ice packs are the only suitable option for maintaining the temperature of frozen goods above 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
Benefits of Dry Ice
Dry ice is very cold and maintains a temperature of about -109.3°F. As it evaporates, it turns into carbon dioxide gas. Due to this sublimation property, it is an ideal option for goods that do not have a low-temperature threshold.
In addition, dry ice lowers the temperature of products, keeping them frozen longer. Never pack dry ice with goods that are sensitive to freezing, such as flowers, live seafood, fresh food or certain pharmaceuticals.
Benefits of Ice Packs
If an item is perishable but must not freeze, ice packs are the best substitute to dry ice. This is because ice packs are typically water-based; their melting point is about 32 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, they do not reach freezing temperatures like dry ice. They will not lead to temperature damage to items that are sensitive to freezing. Ice packs will maintain goods in the 2 to 8 degree C range, depending on their weight and starting temperature.
Handling Safety Considerations
Handling safety
While cold packs need no particular handling safety guidelines, dry ice must be dealt with extreme caution because it is very cold. Exposure to dry ice can result in severe frostbite. In addition, skin cells tend to quickly freeze and become damaged when coming in contact with dry ice.
While handling, use tongs to carry dry ice and wear loose-fitting, thermally insulated gloves.
Storing protocols and disposal
When dry ice starts sublimating, it releases substantial amounts of carbon dioxide gas. Hence, make sure to store it in a well-ventilated area in a non-airtight container. While unpacking the ice, dispose of it in a well-ventilated place.
Deciding between dry ice and cold packs
When it comes to choosing between cold packs and dry ice, start with considering the temperature requirements for your shipment. Also, consider the relative benefits of both of these items. Finally, if you are handling frozen goods, you can use either cold packs or dry ice.
While dry ice helps you maintain frozen temperatures longer, cold packs are a practical choice for frozen shipments. If you are looking to ship perishable items above 32 degrees Fahrenheit, we suggest cold packs.