Winter-proof Pharma logistics

Winter-proof Pharma logistics: At Swiss WorldCargo we keep it cool

Pharmaceutical products require precise conditions to maintain their efficacy and remain safe for consumption. This cannot be stressed enough during the storage and transportation stages of the pharmaceutical supply chain. While pharma transportation generally requires very meticulous conditions, freight movement during the winter season, much like in summer, can become challenging by added nuances.

Published 28 January 2025 by Cargo Marketing and Communications

External conditions such as extreme cold or weather-related disruptions can introduce additional challenging aspects to the freight process in winter, which can be demanding for all stakeholders involved. Effective airfreight solutions are essential for safeguarding temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical shipments against these potential instabilities. At Swiss WorldCargo, we offer our customers one of these solutions - our Celsius Passive transportation solution - which ensures that goods can keep moving safely during this time of year as well.

The unique challenges of winter transportation

Transporting pharmaceutical products during the winter exposes them to unique conditions that can ultimately complicate the freight process if not anticipated and prepared for properly. Some of these include:

1. Temperature extremes

Pharmaceutical products are often sensitive to temperature changes, preferring cooler temperatures for best results. However, extreme temperatures, which are usual during the winter period, can also damage these products. So, even though the shipments ultimately prefer cooler conditions, extreme freezing temperatures can cause irreversible damage. This is why it is essential to maintain consistent temperature control throughout the shipping process.

2. Weather-related disruptions

Winter weather poses challenges not only to products themselves but also to their transportation. Extreme conditions such as winter storms, icy runways, and other adverse weather events can cause significant delays. These disruptions might lead to flight delays and cancellations and affect the timely transport of such shipments. Maintaining a controlled environment for temperature-sensitive goods like pharmaceuticals becomes even more critical, as delays can compromise product integrity and safety.

3. Regulatory compliance

The nature of pharmaceutical products has made the industry highly regulated, and not just any air cargo carrier is active in this type of transportation. To handle and transport these specific products, there must be certified and vetted processes, personnel, and partners in place. The successful transportation of these products involves adhering to stringent regulations, including Good Distribution Practice (GDP) guidelines, which mandate that the products remain within the required temperature range and are insulated from external factors during transit. Noncompliance can result in fines, delays, or rejection of shipments.

Airfreight solutions for winter challenges

Despite the challenges, there are effective strategies to overcome them. Swiss WorldCargo, for example, employs tailored solutions such as:

1. Temperature-supported shipping

Especially relevant during the coldest months of the year are reliable options for temperature-sensitive products that require temperature support for storage and transportation at origin, transfer and destination. Swiss WorldCargo’s Celsius Passive transportation solution, combinable with its SWISS Pharma & Healthcare product, is one such option for a safe and reliable transportation of temperature-sensitive shipments during the cold season.

The Celsius Passive option is characterized by prioritized ground handling and loading, with short transportation times between storage facilities and aircraft, as well as preferred access to flight capacity to ensure the uncompromised integrity of the customers’ goods. Additionally, highly competent teams comprised of regularly trained staff worldwide ensure high-quality service at every step of the way. The challenging circumstances posed by the winter season are mastered by Swiss WorldCargo thanks in part to its efficient and pharmaceutically compliant Zurich Hub. It is not only double-certified (GDP compliant by Swissmedic since 2014 and IATA CEIV Pharma certified since 2018), but also ensures short delivery and transfer times, and limited exposure to outside conditions through a direct tunnel connecting our storage facilities to the long-haul terminal. Last but not least, the Zurich Hub has a state-of-the-art temperature-controlled infrastructure.

2. Redundancy and contingency planning

Unforeseen disruptions are a reality during winter transportation. However, Swiss WorldCargo and its customers collaborate closely to plan for them by developing contingency plans to ensure minimal impact on the supply chain. These plans may include alternative routes, or partner carriers, or shifting to other transport modes, such as trucking, thanks to its solid trucking network.

3. Partnering with experienced and certified logistics third parties

Partnering with logistics providers experienced and certified in handling pharmaceutical shipments is crucial. Certified third parties with expertise in temperature-sensitive logistics can navigate regulatory requirements depending on the market and anticipate potential challenges. As an experienced air cargo carrier with a global network and established relationships, we offer our customers additional benefits, such as highly trained personnel with solid expertise, as well as an expedited transportation, thanks to our X-Presso transportation solution.

Additionally, temperature-controlled containers are also relevant for transporting pharmaceutical products during winter (read more on our Celsius Active transportation solution here). These containers allow our airfreight division to actively control and maintain the required temperature range throughout the shipping process, regardless of external conditions.

Trust us for reliable Pharma air cargo operations in winter

Shipping pharma products during the winter season can be challenging, but with the right partner, it doesn’t have to be. Swiss WorldCargo is a reliable niche air cargo carrier known for its world-class shipping expertise for pharmaceutical products. We take care of your pharma goods, and ensure they get to their destination on time and in pristine conditions. Connect with us today to learn more.

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