Perishable Shipping

What are the most important aspects of packing a seafood box?

CONVECTION:

Fill box, no empty space. Ice goes on top, not bottom

CONDUCTION:

Use insulation like styrofoam, foil bubble, wood; these all work. Just use the lightest available material to save on shipping

RADIATION:

Don't use black boxes. Use white boxes or reflective boxes if packages are exposed to sunlight outside.

DRY ICE VS GEL PACKS

DRY ICE

Best used for shipping frozen products as the temperature inside the insulation will drop well below 34 degrees F (0 C).
*May be considered hazardous in some shipping circumstances

GEL PACKS

Great alternative to wet ice as they keep seafood fresh without the mess of melting water.

TYPES OF INSULATION

STYROFOAM COOLERS

Pros -

Leak resistant,
Reliable,
Reusable
and Recyclable

Cons -

Not Collapsible

STYROFOAM PANELS

Pros -

Lightweight,
Cost Effective,
Ships Flat,
Recyclable

Cons -

Difficult to Assemble,
Not leakproof

FOIL BUBBLE POUCHES

Pros -

Lightweight,
Leakproof,
Cost Effective,
Ships Flat

Cons -

Less Effective
for Longer
Shipments,
Not Recyclable

2 PIECE ALTERNATIVE LINERS

Pros -

Lightweight,
Ships Flat,
Possibly
Recyclable

Cons -

Expensive.
Not Leakproof

Fill in the gaps with materials:

Place product inside the box.

Pack gel packs and product as close together as possible.

Fill in gaps with additional packing materials like foam peanuts or kraft paper.

Tightly secure the lid so no cold air gets out or warm air comes in.