Perishable Cargo

perishable:

Perishable Cargo is a cargo that is perishable and may spoil or decay because of changes in altitude, temperature, humidity, climate, or other environmental conditions or because of expiration

Which Cargo are Perishable?

Human foodstuffs,
Vegetables and fruits,
Fresh / frozen meat,
Fresh / frozen fish,
Eggs for human consumption,
Flowers,
Live organs and fresh blood samples for humans,
Healthcare / pharmaceutical products,
Plants, etc.

Time, temperature and humidity are the three key variables when it comes to shipping perishable cargo. They demand special handling as even the slightest temperature excursions can negatively affect the quality of the goods – especially in the case of ultra-sensitive cargo, such as pharmaceuticals and vaccines, where there is no margin for error. Improper handling at any point in the supply chain can cause physical damage to the consignments’ contents, or even make it unusable. These cargo are also often subjected to numerous temperature excursions because of inadequate supply chain infrastructure, and/or the lack of awareness among supply chain partners about the right storage and/or handling techniques.

There are many characteristics of air cargo which make it the preferred means of transportations for perishable goods. The speed, reliability, economics and controlled conditions of carriage by air provide the ideal method for exporters of perishable commodities to service existing markets and develop new ones. But the special nature of perishable cargo calls for specials attentions to be paid to packaging, handling and other aspects of the transportation process.

To avoid risk of delay, perishable shipments should travel as booked cargo. Shippers should be encouraged to reserve space for all perishable consignments and to do this in sufficient time for the airline to make whatever arrangements are necessary.

Perishables should always be sent on the most direct route, with fewest transit stops, thereby minimizing the elapsed time and eliminating unnecessary climatic changes. When a transfer from one fight to another is unavoidable, connecting times must be carefully considered as some shipments may require re-icing or temporary storage in a temperature-controlled area such as a cool-room or freezer.

Perishables shippers use both passenger aircraft and freighters to speed goods to their destinations, according to market needs, the nature of the commodity, product margin, and individual preferences

Passenger flights are generally more frequent, less expensive, and more widely available, but they require adherence to tight timetables, and goods may get bumped at the pilot's discretion. Freighters offer better temperature control, fewer inspections, and additional capacity, which is particularly valuable for large quantities of short-season goods.

Packaging

The biggest challenge in perishable logistics is maintaining high-quality product and service levels, Proper packaging is essential to ensure perishables survive the hand-offs and temperature variability involved in air import and export. Packing strategies might include specialized boxes and packing materials, and use of gel packs, thermal blankets, dry ice, and other materials. Fresh fish is typically packed in polystyrene boxes with gel packs, for example.

Some goods need to be pre-cooled for transport to withstand flying conditions and extend shelf life.Some goods need to be pre-cooled for transport to withstand flying conditions and extend shelf life.