With the rising demand for fresh and time-sensitive products across markets, the need for efficient logistics solutions has become more critical than ever. Air transport has emerged as one of the most reliable and fastest ways to move perishable goods, especially those with a limited shelf life.
To keep up with the market growth and consumer needs, airlines and shippers collaborate to develop effective handling techniques and packaging methods that ensure that perishable goods are delivered in top condition.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the ways to ship frozen food, which comes under the perishable goods category.
What Do You Mean By Perishable Goods?
Perishable goods are items that are sensitive to time or temperature. They require fast and safe delivery to maintain quality and effectiveness. Air is often the preferred mode of transportation, as it offers dedicated storage facilities and timely delivery.
There are different types of perishable goods that require specific shipping requirements. The kind of good it is will determine how it needs to be stored.
Specific perishable goods require lower temperatures to slow down respiration. Therefore, it slows the ripening process and reduces any harmful effects on the perishable cargo. Meat and seafood should be frozen to prevent microorganisms from infecting the product.
List of Perishable Goods
Transportation of perishables like fruits, vegetables, seafood, meat, dairy products, and flowers continues to rise globally on an annual basis, and aligns with growing customer demand for healthy and fresh produce all year round, no matter which season they grow.
Considering the shorter shelf-life of perishable products, air cargo is the most preferred mode of transportation, which offers a unique capability to react quickly to changing seasons.
Some of the perishable goods shipped via air include:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Spices and Dried Herbs(although most of these are sent by sea)
- Flowers, tropical flowers, and potted plants
- Meat and Meat products
- Cut flowers and florist greens
- Seafood
- Cheese and dairy products
- Shellfish
- Eggs
- Baked goods and confectionery
- Cosmetic products
- Frozen food
- Pharmaceutical products
Every item has its own requirements for packaging and storage. Plus, you can find more details in the Perishable Cargo Regulations (PCR). Some of these items also come under the Temperature Control Regulations. Pharmaceutical products have very specific guidelines that need to be followed while transporting them.
How to Ship Frozen Food?
Depending on the type of perishable good you’re shipping, the packaging and shipping instructions may differ. Some foods degrade rapidly, and others tolerate the transportation conditions without much problem.
Irrespective of the case, adhering to the standard packaging, labelling, and handling procedures prescribed by the International Air Transport Association will help you ensure successful shipping.
The best way to ship perishables is by adhering to the following instructions that are outlined in the Perishable Cargo Regulations manual.
In simple words, the most important factors of air transportation of perishables are time and temperature management, which should be supported by an appropriate handling process and packaging methods that ensure food safety and other requirements.
Responsibilities of a Shipper
The shipper and their authorized agent, including the importer or freight forwarder, have to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Declare all the details of the shipment
- Provide details of booking, special handling, or conditions needed.
- Obtain the necessary permits
- Marking, labelling, and documentation.
- Providing a primary contact.
- Training staff regarding their responsibilities.
- Communicate when the ownership ends.
Responsibilities of a Carrier
Just as a shipper has guidelines, the carrier also has responsibilities regarding the safe delivery of perishable goods. The carrier needs to consider:
- Any regulations or restrictions that may delay the delivery of perishable goods.
- Informing about discrepancies that could impact the load, safety of the crew, aircraft structure, or employees’ health.
- Whether goods will arrive on time.
- If sufficient space has been allotted on the flight.
- Whether special storage requirements are available.
- If segregation is required from other cargo.
- Whether the shipper provided all necessary details.
- If all security requirements have been met.
- If alternative procedures have been put in place to deal with flight delays.
- If necessary, customs procedures have been completed.
To Summarize
Perishable goods, especially food and ingredients, often require specialized air cargo transportation to ensure timely and safe delivery. These goods are known to deteriorate rapidly depending on the conditions in which they’ve been placed.
With trusted cargo support from Amerijet, you’ll be able to ensure proper and timely delivery of frozen food in cold chain packaging. Our team specializes in handling perishable goods and ensuring they’re safely packed and secured for air transit. We also adhere to IATA’s strict guidelines to ensure safe and secure delivery of food. For more details, contact us now or reach out to our help and support centre on our website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Perishable Goods?
Perishable goods are temperature and/or time-sensitive items that require fast and safe delivery to maintain quality and effectiveness.
What are the Different Types of Perishable Goods?
Different types of perishable goods include fruits, vegetables, spices & dried herbs, frozen meat, etc.
How are Perishable Goods Packaged for Air Shipping?
These goods are packed using insulated containers, gel packs, dry ice, or temperature-controlled packaging to maintain required conditions.
