The COVID-19 pandemic has shone a spotlight on the challenges of shipping medical equipment and supplies. From temperature-controlled vaccine doses to shortages of masks and other PPE, the public has never been more aware of the complexity and importance of getting medical equipment to its destination safely and efficiently.
Medical supplies often need to be shipped to and from far-flung locations, and many have particularities that make it difficult to transport and store them in a standard way. Fortunately, the experts at Creopack are here to explain how to ship medical equipment and supplies effectively so that they can get to the places where they are desperately needed.
The importance of shipping medical equipment properly
While steps are always taken to protect products and maintain their integrity during shipping and handling, the task is both more important and much more complex when shipping medical equipment.
Medical equipment includes everything from MRI machines to medication. It is often bulky, fragile, or in need of special measures such as temperature control. It is also usually very expensive.
Furthermore, due to its life-saving nature, it is vital for medical equipment to arrive at its destination in impeccable condition. Any deterioration or damage can have severe consequences for the patients who rely on it.
Therefore, medical and pharmaceutical packaging must be able to meet the highest industry standards, and extra care must be taken to ensure that the shipping process goes smoothly.
How to ship medical equipment properly
Shipping medical equipment requires careful planning. It’s important to inform yourself about customs requirements, packaging solutions and insurance options well in advance to minimize the chances of something going wrong during shipping.
Address any special requirements
Medical equipment is a vast category that includes a wide variety of products with multifarious shipping needs.
Some types of medication need to remain at a specific temperature throughout the supply chain in order to remain effective. Depending on the temperature required, shipping these medications may need to include the use of insulated containers, refrigerated transportation vehicles and specialized warehousing.
Particularly delicate or sensitive lab equipment may require special packaging for shock absorption and vibration dampening. Oversized equipment such as MRI machines, CT scanners, hospital beds and other furniture may need special permits and custom packaging, since standard packaging may not be available in the correct size.
Use custom packaging
Custom packaging is the ultimate solution for shipping medical equipment. A crating company will be able to provide protective packaging and custom cases that are designed specifically for your product and its unique requirements. Foam packaging can be die-cut to the exact shape needed to protect your products.
Whether you’re looking for vibration dampening, moisture protection or temperature control, experts will be able create a packaging solution that is tailored to your needs.
Consider reusable packaging
If you’re shipping the same products on a regular basis, reusable packaging is a great way to save money while still ensuring that your items are protected. There are reusable shipping crates available that can be assembled and disassembled without tools and can be fully customized to suit the needs of the product. Reusable crates are built to be more durable than their single-use counterparts, and they are also better for the environment.
Be careful when shipping internationally
Customs regulations need to be considered when shipping medical equipment internationally. Packages that do not follow requirements may be delayed or returned to the sender, and you may even be fined for non-compliance.
It’s important to be aware of international shipping requirements such as ISPM 15 heat-treated crates, required documentation and cargo height and weight limits. Oversized items may need special permits that a professional shipping company will be able to obtain.
Insure and track items
No matter how well you plan and prepare your items for shipment, unforeseen incidents can sometimes occur. Given the generally high costs of medical equipment, it’s extremely important to insure your items so that you can be fairly compensated if they are damaged in transit. Shipment tracking can also help keep your items from getting lost and give you peace of mind.
Creopack custom packaging: ship your medical equipment with confidence!
Shipping medical equipment and supplies requires particular expertise to ensure that these life-saving items arrive at their destinations completely intact. Considering the particular dimensions, requirements and value of many types of medical equipment, it’s vital to entrust their packaging, handling and shipping to professionals.
Creopack’s industry-leading medical packaging solutions are expertly designed to protect delicate equipment and products with special requirements. Our packaging adheres to the strictest medical and pharmaceutical industry standards and is custom-made to meet your needs perfectly. We also offer on-site packing, freight logistics and on-time delivery for those looking for more comprehensive services. Contact us today!