Perishable airfreight
We are a leading UK temperature controlled logistics specialist, arranging Global Airfreight and Distribution for both the Import and Export of Perishable Foodstuffs.
We provide a “Cool Chain” Logistics system which includes a specialist Airfreight packing service for Manufacturers & Distributors of foodstuffs who Export their produce by Air. Our "Cool Chain” logistics service provides a one stop shop for the Global distribution of temperature controlled foodstuffs, specific to the requirements of the product.
Heathrow Warehousing & Logistics Services
Our Temperature Controlled Warehousing Facility at Heathrow offers 5000 Sq Ft. of chilled & 1000 Sq Ft. of Frozen storage. Our Temperature Controlled Packing Services, Warehousing and Refrigerated Vehicles provide all the services you require for the Import or Export of Perishable products. Please see details of our full range of services as detailed below:
- Chilled / frozen storage and distribution.
- Chilled Frozen Chambers & Pallet Racking.
- Completion of all Documentation, AWB’s etc.
- Consolidation of Sample Parcels / Pallets.
- Container loading / destuffing including palletisation.
- Customs Clearance.
- Door to Airport or to Door Airfreight service.
- Full Food Grade Packing Services including labelling.
- UK & European Chilled / Frozen Groupage & Full load distribution services.
How it works
From frozen Desserts to chilled Chocolates, more and more foodstuffs are shipped refrigerated or frozen. We provide the services that allow foodstuff samples or pallets to arrive at global destinations in the same condition as when they were packed. This turns samples from the shippers into full pallets, or hopefully full loads. Itemised below are the steps used when undertaking the temperature controlled movement of perishables.
Once your product has been collected and returned to our warehouse, it is put into the relevant temperature controlled storage area (samples or pallets). We pack and deliver as close to the time of flight departure as possible, thereby extending the time at point of delivery that your product remains at the correct temperature.
For samples, a good insulated container / box is needed. We place your temperature controlled foodstuffs inside a container / box suited to the size / weight of your product. We then configure usage of dry ice & gel bags to ensure each consignment is tailored to your individual requirements.
For full pallets, our packers use a combination of dry ice / gel bags & thermo wrap, ensuring the right combinations and percentages are used for both the product and duration of the journey. We repack your pallet using this method and also ensure sufficient "airway" is left between each box to prevent "cold spots", as dry ice can maintain products upto -72 oC.
After your products have been suitably packed, we prepare all documentation, air way bills etc and take to the airline sheds six hours prior to flight departure. At this point you will receive a pdf copy of your AWB to forward to your customer. Dependent upon your instructions, delivery will be made to the relevant airport or organised for delivery to your customer.
Technical information
We use Dry Ice for shipping frozen foodstuffs as Dry Ice will freeze everything in the shipping box. We use "gel packs" or "blue ice" for goods to be refrigerated. A combination of dry ice and gel packs will extend the shipping time by several days if the shipped items can be frozen for a short time or thawed for a short time.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) have set out rules that govern the shipment of dry ice due to the potential dangers of the substance if not handled properly. A product needs to be packaged in dry ice for shipping if the material is perishable. The IATA defines a shipment as perishable if the product can "deteriorate over a given period of time if exposed to harsh environmental conditions, such as excessive temperature or humidity".
Dry Ice Blocks / Pellets / Insulated Box
Our packing team are well versed in the transportation of foodstuffs for temperature controlled export by Air. We endeavour to provide stable core temperatures for 72 hours from time of departure from the UK.
Insulated containers
Manufactured from high quality PUR polyurethane foam and high density PE polyethylene our insulated containers offer:
- Longer Shipping Cycle - reduced freight costs
- Custom Sizes - with low minimum orders
- Creative Design Configurations - reduced refrigerant consumption.
Our insulated shipping containers improve performance by maintaining temperature control for longer periods of time. This allows us to use an efficient amount of refrigerant and reduce freight costs. You may be able to switch your overnight air shipments to Two or Three Day Service.
Gel Packs
Gel Packs are a practical and economical substitute for ice and dry ice. It contains a state of the art refrigerant gel. It will effectively keep the contents of shipping containers cool and fresh longer than ice without the watery mess. It is an economical and superior product which can be used over and over again.
This product is ideal for shipping Fish, Chocolate, Confections, Flowers, Prepared Foods, Meat, Fruit, Vegetables, Beverages, Poultry, Seafood, Vaccines, Serum, Pharmaceuticals, Blood Pouches, Bio Products, and Lab Samples.
Definition of Cold Chain
A cold chain is a temperature controlled supply chain. An unbroken cold chain is an un-interrupted series of storage and distribution activities which maintain a given temperature range. It is used to extend and to help ensure the shelf life of products such as foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals etc.
We are committed to supporting your global cold chain requirements through the use of technical expertise and the use of state of the art materials suited to your exact requirements. Please feel free to contact us for more information about the full range of all our Temperature Controlled Logistics Services.