The Best Ways to Ship Frozen and Perishable Food
Posted On 8th March 2019A number of customers often come to us wondering how to ship perishable food and frozen items.
Obviously, shipping these items comes with a number of challenges. Mainly, you want to make sure the items are still fresh when they are delivered.
So, just how do you do that?
We’ve put together a comprehensive guide that will explain the best way to ship perishable food and how to ship frozen food, along with a number of tips to ensure you do it successfully and safely.
How to Ship Perishable Food
First, we’re going to cover how to ship perishable food. Keep in mind, when you send perishables through the mail you do so at your own risk. There is always the chance of the items soiling during transport if they’re not packed properly, so keep that in mind.
Before perishable food shipping, make sure that what you’re sending has enough shelf life to make it to your desired destination. This is especially true when sending items internationally.
Each country has rules and regulations around what can be sent through the mail, so make sure to check those before perishable food shipping. For example, fresh produce and meats can’t be mailed internationally.
Most importantly, use common sense. If you think the item you’re sending might spoil don’t risk it.
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How to Pack Perishable Food Before Shipping
When thinking about how to ship perishable food, the first thing to consider is packaging.
If your food doesn’t need to be refrigerated then packing it will be similar to any other item. Make sure you use a sturdy box and provide proper internal packing if you’re shipping anything breakable. Consider wrapping your perishable food in plastic wrap or foil to help maintain its freshness.
If you’re wondering how to ship refrigerated items, here’s what you need to do:
1. First, you’ll need to use something insulated to reduce heat transfer and maximize the amount of time your perishable food will remain cold. You can accomplish this by simply using a styrofoam box. Other options include styrofoam cut sheets, insulated liners, air-filled insulated liners, and insulated pads.
2. Once you’ve got the proper amount of insulation, you’ll need to line the box with gel or ice packs. Make sure to use a sufficient amount so the box stays cool for the entire trip.
3. Finally, once the box is sealed, make sure it’s labeled “Perishable Food - Keep Refrigerated.”
Is Dry Ice Needed to Ship Perishable Food?
When people ask us how to ship perishable food, they often bring up dry ice. There’s a common misconception that any time you’re shipping perishables you’ll need to use dry ice. This just isn’t true.
If your items only remain refrigerated, gel or ice packs will be more than adequate. This is good to know, as there are a number of restrictions around shipping dry ice.
The only time you need to use dry ice when sending perishables through the mail is when you’re shipping frozen food, which we’ll cover below.
How to Send Perishable Food Through the Mail
Once your perishable food is packaged properly, sending it through the mail is relatively the same as shipping any other item.
You’ll need to choose a shipping partner you trust, and whose rates fit within your budget. There is no guaranteed cheapest way to ship perishables. The cost will depend on what you’re shipping, who you’re shipping with, and where you’re sending it. So, make sure to do your homework and find a partner that best suits your needs.
The most important part of perishable food shipping is ensuring it will arrive before it spoils. You may be about to ask how to ship perishables overnight, but while some items will need to arrive within a day, others might be able to keep for two days or more.
Do your research to find out exactly how fast your food needs to arrive, as two-day perishable food shipping is much cheaper than overnight shipping.
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How to Ship Frozen Food
If you’re wondering how to ship frozen food, it’s a lot like shipping refrigerated items. However, there are a few key differences that you need to be aware of.
Can you ship frozen food?
When people ask how to ship frozen food, they often start by wondering if you even can ship frozen food. The answer is you can ship frozen food to another state, but not internationally.
This is because in order to keep items frozen during shipping you need to use dry ice, which isn’t allowed to be shipped internationally. International shipments take additional time as well, so it’s unlikely you’d be able to keep your items frozen long enough anyway.
How to Pack Cold Food Before Shipping
Like refrigerated food, when shipping frozen food you’ll need to use insulation to keep your items cold for as long as possible. We recommend using a styrofoam box, or buying a cold shipping box from a shipping store.
The best way to make frozen food shipping is to make sure the items are thoroughly frozen before placing them in the box. Keep them in the freezer and completely frozen until the last possible moment before shipping frozen food.
This will maximize the amount of time they’ll stay frozen during transport.
How to Ship Frozen Food With Dry Ice
In order to keep your items frozen for as long as possible, you’ll need to use dry ice. This an extremely effective way to make frozen food shipping, but you need to make sure you handle it and package it properly.
Dry ice is made from frozen carbon dioxide and is -109.3 degrees F. This makes it a hazardous shipping material, as there is the possibility it will explode if not packaged properly.
First, always wear thick gloves or oven mitts when handling dry ice. Next, write down how many pounds of dry ice you’re using, as you will need to give this information to the shipping carrier.
Wrap the dry ice in a newspaper, then line the box with the ice. For the best results, place your frozen food in between the blocks of dry ice.
How to Ship Frozen Food Without Dry Ice
When you need to ship perishable food items that need to stay frozen, dry ice is the best way to keep them cold. But what if you don't have any dry ice on hand? Here are a few ways to ship frozen food without using dry ice.
Pack the Food in a Well-Insulated Box
The first step is to make sure your food is packed properly. Use a heavy-duty cardboard box and line it with insulation material like Styrofoam or bubble wrap. This will help keep the cold air in and the warm air out.
Fill the Box with Crumpled Newspaper
Once you've lined the box with insulation, fill it with crumpled newspaper. The newspaper will help keep the food items from moving around during shipping.
Pack the Food in Plastic Bags
Next, you'll need to pack the food itself in plastic bags. This will help prevent the food from coming into contact with the insulation material and getting freezer burn.
Wrap the Box in Duct Tape
Once you've packed the box with food, be sure to wrap it securely with duct tape. This will help keep the box closed and prevent any leaks.
Label the Box "Perishable"
Finally, be sure to label the box "perishable" so that the shipping company is aware of its contents. This will help them take special care when handling your package.
With these tips, you can ship frozen food without dry ice. Just be sure to pack the food properly and label the box clearly so that it arrives safely at its destination.
How to Ship Frozen Food Overnight
If you need to ship frozen food overnight, there are a few things you need to do in order to ensure that your food arrives safely and is still frozen.
First, you'll need to choose an appropriate shipping container.
You'll also need to pack the food in dry ice or gel packs. Be sure to wrap the food tightly so that it doesn't come into contact with the dry ice - this can cause freezer burn. When packing the cooler, be sure to leave some room at the top so that the dry ice can circulate properly.
Finally, be sure to label the package clearly and include instructions for how to handle it upon arrival. With these simple tips, you can rest assured that your frozen food will arrive safe and sound.
How to Ship Frozen Food with USPS, UPS, and FedEx
When it comes to shipping frozen food, you have a few different options. You can use USPS, UPS, or FedEx. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, so you'll need to decide which is best for your needs.
USPS is typically the cheapest option, but it can take longer for your package to arrive. UPS is more expensive, but your package will arrive faster. FedEx is the most expensive option, but it offers the quickest delivery time.
When shipping with USPS, you'll need to use insulated packaging and include ice packs or dry ice to keep your food cold. UPS and FedEx both offer refrigerated shipping services that will keep your food cold during transit.
If you're shipping frozen food, be sure to package it securely and label it clearly. This will help ensure that your food arrives safely and intact.
How to Ship Frozen Food FedEx
When you need to ship frozen food, FedEx is a great option. We can get your food to its destination safely and securely. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shipping frozen food with FedEx:
- Use dry ice or gel packs to keep your food frozen during transit. You'll want to pack the dry ice or gel packs in an insulated container so that they don't come into direct contact with the food.
- Label the package as containing dry ice or gel packs, and include the word "perishable" on the label. This will help our team take extra care of your package.
- Make sure the package is properly sealed so that there is no leakage.
- Include a cold pack shipping label or a letter explaining what is in the package.
- Ship your package on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday to avoid weekend delays.
If you have any questions about shipping frozen food with FedEx, our team is happy to help.
How to Ship Frozen Food UPS
When you are ready to ship your frozen food, UPS is the best option. With their reliable and affordable service, you can be sure that your food will arrive safely and on time. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Choose the right packaging. When shipping frozen food, it is important to use packaging that will keep the food cold and prevent it from thawing. Styrofoam coolers are a great option, as they are insulated and will keep your food cold for several days. Be sure to pack the cooler tightly with newspaper or bubble wrap to prevent the food from moving around during transit.
- Ship early in the week. Shipping frozen food on a Monday or Tuesday will help ensure that it arrives before the weekend, when most people are home to receive it.
- Use expedited shipping. UPS offers several expedited shipping options that can get your frozen food to its destination quickly and safely. Be sure to select the option that best meets your needs.
- Include a cold pack. Adding a cold pack to your shipment will help keep the food frozen during transit. You can purchase cold packs at most stores that sell shipping supplies.
- Label your package clearly. Be sure to label your package as “perishable” and include a note indicating that it contains frozen food. This will help the UPS driver know to handle your package with care.
Following these tips will help ensure that your frozen food arrives safely and on time. UPS is the best option for shipping frozen food, so be sure to take advantage of their reliable and affordable service.
How to Ship Frozen Food USPS
Did you know that you can ship frozen food items through the United States Postal Service (USPS)? That's right - with a little advance planning, you can send frozen treats and other perishables safely through the mail. Here's what you need to know about shipping frozen food USPS:
The first thing to keep in mind is that you'll need to use an insulated shipping container when mailing frozen items. Be sure to line your container with freezer packs or dry ice to keep your food frozen during transit.
When packing your frozen items, be sure to wrap them securely in freezer-safe packaging. This will help to prevent them from thawing out during transit. Once your items are packed, be sure to label the package clearly and prominently with the words "Fragile: Keep Frozen."
When it comes time to ship your frozen food, you'll need to take it to your local post office. The USPS recommends shipping frozen items via Priority Mail or Priority Mail Express, as these services offer the best protection against temperature changes. Be sure to include enough postage on your package, as frozen items often require additional postage due to their weight.
With a little advance planning, you can ship frozen food items safely and securely through the United States Postal Service.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship Frozen Food
As mentioned earlier, when it comes to how to ship frozen food cheaply, it depends on a number of factors. The way to get the best price is to get quotes from several different carriers and find the lowest price available.
That being said, for a standard 2-3 pound package, you can expect a cost anywhere from $30-$150, depending on what you’re shipping, your destination, and how soon you need it to arrive.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship Frozen Food UPS
It typically costs more to ship frozen food than it does to ship non-perishable items. This is because frozen foods require special packaging and handling in order to stay cold and fresh during transit.
UPS offers a variety of shipping options for frozen food, so the exact cost will depend on the service you choose. For example, UPS Next Day Air® is one of the fastest shipping options available, but it will also be one of the most expensive. On the other hand, UPS Ground is a slower shipping option, but it is usually less expensive.
You can get an estimate of how much it will cost to ship your frozen food by using UPS's online calculator. When shipping frozen food, it is important to pack the items in an insulated container with dry ice. This will help keep the food frozen during transit.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship Frozen Food USPS
USPS offers a number of shipping options for frozen food, and the cost will vary depending on the size and weight of your shipment.
USPS Priority Mail Express is the fastest option, with overnight delivery to most locations.
USPS Priority Mail is also a good option for frozen food, with 2-3 day delivery to most locations.
For larger shipments, USPS Parcel Select Ground may be a better option, with 2-8 day delivery depending on your location.
Shipping costs will also vary depending on the packaging you use and whether you insure your shipment.
How to Ship Frozen Food Cheaply
If you're shipping frozen food on a budget, these tips should help you save money while still ensuring that your food arrives safely at its destination.
When shipping frozen food, it's important to choose a freight shipping company that has experience in handling this type of cargo. Many companies offer special rates for shipping frozen goods, so be sure to ask about these when you're comparison shopping.
Dry ice and gel packs are both great ways to keep frozen food cold during transit. You can usually purchase these at your local grocery store or online. Just be sure to pack them securely so they don't leak and make a mess of your shipment.
Finally, packing your frozen food in an insulated box will help to protect it from the heat. This is especially important if you're shipping during the summer months or to a hot climate. Insulated boxes are available at most hardware stores or online.
By following these tips, you can ship frozen food cheaply and safely. Just be sure to do your research and choose a shipping company that has experience in handling this type of cargo.
A Few Tips for Successfully Shipping Refrigerated Items
Before we wrap up the article, here are a few tips to consider when shipping refrigerated and frozen foods.
First, if you’re using a styrofoam or cold box, choose one with the thickest walls possible. The thicker the walls the more insulation there will be, which means your food will stay cold longer. Ideally, the walls should be at least 1.5 inches thick.
When placing your perishable food in your box ensure it’s already cooled, otherwise, condensation will start to form inside.
You’ll also want to make sure the items are properly wrapped in a liner bag before putting them in the box for shipping.
Finally, let the recipient know ahead of time when and where they can pick up their package. That way, they can receive it as soon as possible which will decrease the chance of anything spoiling.
Conclusion
There are a few things you need to consider before frozen food shipping or perishable food shipping. However, in the whole scheme of things, it’s not that different from mailing regular items.
If you use the right packaging, ensure your items stay cold, and make sure the package arrives on time, you should have no trouble with perishable food shipping or frozen food shipping.