Shipping frozen items is the crucial step because food items should be maintained and kept fresh when they move to the place. It is important to understand how to ship frozen food in the right way.

Food items must maintain their quality and should be contamination-free when they reach the customer. If the food reaches the customer in poor condition, it can damage the company’s reputation.

This article discusses the challenges related to frozen food boxes and how we can use them effectively with the right carrier shipping options, such as USPS, UPS, and FedEx. You will also learn which type of containers we can use to ensure that the food items do not spoil during transportation.

Challenges faced in frozen food shipping boxes 

The main goal while shipping frozen food is to ensure that the items reach the customer safely so that they can be sold easily. Maintaining the proper temperature is crucial for frozen food to prevent spoilage during transport to its destination. We face several challenges in shipping frozen food, which are given below:

Control temperature 

One of the most significant challenges in shipping frozen food is maintaining a constant low temperature. If the food is not properly packaged, then fluctuations in temperature occur. It can lead to spoilage of the food items

Effected by humidity 

High humidity can cause breakage or leakage in food products. Excessive moisture leads to frozen foods becoming sticky. 

It can blur printed labels and make the food soggy. This ultimately results in the spoilage of the food. Additionally, high humidity reduces the shelf life of the food products

Use of Dry Ice 

Dry ice is frequently utilized for the transportation of frozen food due to its ability to maintain extremely low temperatures. It has hazardous properties, so there are specific shipping regulations for using dry ice. which include guidelines on the quantity allowed per shipment.

Packaging and  damage 

When considering how to ship frozen food, it’s crucial to prioritize the packaging of the food items. The packaging design should ensure that both temperature and humidity levels are maintained. The seals should be leak-proof but not airtight, which allows the package to easily evaporate dry gases and eliminate them

Ship frozen food with the right shipping  carrier 

As you are aware, USPS is a shipping carrier that we frequently use for our shipping needs. According to USPS packaging guidelines, there are certain requirements that must be met, which are as follows:

USPS

USPS does not offer specific refrigeration services for shipments. To keep items fresh, dry ice is commonly used in packaging. Containers must be leak-proof but not airtight, allowing the gases from dry ice to escape safely. However, dry ice is not allowed for international shipments. During packaging, using thick polystyrene boxes is highly recommended as compared to inexpensive Styrofoam coolers.

UPS

• There are a few guidelines regarding UPS, which are as follows:
• When UPS holds shipments for longer durations, frozen food items can spoil. It is essential to keep the shipment time as short as possible, ideally within 30 minutes. 
• Shipping frozen food ups should be placed in plastic bags, and thick insulated foam containers should be used. During packaging, dry ice can be used instead of frozen ice to maintain the low temperatures. 
• It is crucial to monitor the rules and regulations for using dry ice in shipments. Use Proper padding techniques to prevent movement of the food items and any changes in their texture or quality.

FedEx

FedEx offers cold shipping options. If you are using dry ice, it must be mentioned on the product labeling. Frozen food items are typically placed in containers with foam inserts to maintain product quality.

Shipping frozen item cost for USPS, UPS, FedEx

Cost of USPS

USPS offers its fastest service through Priority Mail Express, which delivers packages within 1-2 days at a cost ranging from $30 to $100+.The cost depends on the package size and distance. Larger packages make the cost higher. Priority mail is the affordable option, and it delivers within 2-3 days at a cost of $15 to $70.It is not suitable for items that need to remain frozen.

Cost of UPS 

UPS ground 

UPS Next Day Air is an excellent option for shipping frozen food as it ensures next-day delivery. It keeps shipping perishable goods intact. The cost ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the package size and shipping distance.

UPS 2nd day Air

This is a less expensive shipping option with a delivery time of 2 business days. The cost ranges from $30 to $150+, depending on the package size, weight, and shipping distance.

UPS Next Day Air Saver

It will be delivered within 2 days, and it costs $30 to $150.

FedEx

FedEx priority overweight 

FedEx Priority Overnight is similar to UPS Next Day Air, offering overnight delivery. The cost typically ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the package size and shipping distance.

FedEx Standard overweight 

FedEx Standard Overnight is a less expensive overnight shipping option that delivers packages the next business day. The cost typically ranges from $40 to $180.

FedEx 2nd day 

The delivery time of FedEx 2nd Day is two days, and it costs $30 to $150.

FedEx Express saver 

FedEx Ground is an economical shipping option with costs ranging from $10 to $50, depending on the package size, weight, and shipping distance. It is delivered within 1 to 7 business days.

Which containers are required to ship frozen food 

To ship frozen food, specialized containers are used that keep the food perfectly preserved. It ensures quality and prevents any movement during transit.

• Insulated foam containers
• Dry ice 
• Water liner or bags 
• Sturdy corrugated box 

How to pack frozen food shipping boxes for transportation

There are a few important guidelines that are necessary to pack frozen food shipping boxes which are as follows:

• An insulated container is used, which has thick walls that help maintain low temperatures during transportation.
• For frozen items, dry ice is used. When handling dry ice, it is essential to follow its rules and regulations.
• The seal should not be completely airtight so that any gases that are released can escape easily and prevent contamination.
• Proper padding and cushioning should be used to create an insulation layer that ensures that the temperature is maintained. It doesn’t allow the movement of the food, and there is no change in its texture or quality.
• Fast shipping methods, such as overnight delivery, should be used to reduce transportation time and maintain the quality of the product.

FAQ

Can you ship frozen food?

Yes, you can ship frozen food, but it’s essential to follow packaging guidelines. Ensure the shipping method maintains the temperature and prevents degradation of its quality.

How much is the cost required to ship frozen food?

The shipping of frozen food depends on several factors, such as the package’s weight, size, shipping distance, and the type of shipping service being provided.

What is the cheapest way to ship frozen food?

The most cost-effective shipping method involves balancing delivery speed and cost for frozen food shipments. Proper packaging is essential to maintain the frozen state of the food during transit.