The movement of goods through factories, lorries, vans and warehouses can expose them to varying conditions. So, if temperature controlled shipping is necessary for your products, is corrugated cardboard a good packaging option?
Thermally Insulated Corrugated Cardboard
Corrugated cardboard is formed by adhering a fluted inner layer of kraft paper between two flat sheets. This creates a ridged, yet lightweight structure that is effective at protecting goods. What’s more the fluting traps air and this results in a level of thermal insulation and cushioning.
You can increase the strength and insulating properties by opting for double walled corrugated cardboard. That is because they have two fluted layers, each trapping air. As such, double walled cardboard boxes are a popular and cost-effective option for the temperature controlled shipping of fresh goods including fruit, flowers and some electronic components.
Insulating Linings for Cardboard Boxes
For some products, temperature controlled shipping means keeping the contents of the box chilled, frozen or within tight parameters. This includes food, pharmaceutical products, medical supplies, electronic components, pet food and other perishable or consumable goods. For these products, it is recommended to use insulating liners within your cardboard boxes.
Polystyrene used to be widely used for temperature controlled shipping. However, whilst it was effective, it is a plastic-based material, which easily breaks up and causes environmental issues. Therefore, it is best avoided. So, what are the alternatives?
Types of Insulating Liners for Boxes
There is a range of lining options to fit into industrial cartons, catering and food delivery boxes and medical packaging.
Corrugated Roll – A basic, sustainable option that you can cut to fit any sized box. It can be layered up and as a paper-based liner, it is 100% recyclable.
Corrugated Sheets – Cut to fit the dimensions of your boxes, flat sheets are easy to add to the base and/or sides to aid temperature control. You can use double walled sheet or honeycomb effect cardboard.
Paper Padding – 100% recycled shredded paper is encased in a pouch that can slide between your products and the box. Again, this is fully recyclable as it is a paper-based product.
Wool Liners – Sheep’s fleece is a highly efficient insulator. Several companies source, clean and pack this natural material in a protective outer layer, which makes it safe to use with consumables.
Foil liners – typically made from reflective foil bubble wrap. These do contain plastic, but increasingly this includes at least 30% recycled content. The advantage of this option is water resistance.
The most suitable will depend on your product, how long the temperature parameters must be retained and your budget. Our helpful team are happy to advise on thermal lining options. Once you’ve made your decision, we can supply liners with your boxes.
Just give us a call 01296 436888 or email enquiries@abcbox.co.uk.
What is ISTA 7E Testing?
If you’ve been searching for temperature contolled shipping solutions, you may have come across ISTA 7E testing. This is a method developed by the International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) to assess the performance of thermal packaging. During the standardised tests, goods sealed within boxes are exposed to various temperatures to determine the impact.
Are you supplying to a company that requires compliance with ISTA 7E standards? If so, further information can be found on the ISTA website: https://ista.org/docs/7Doverview.pdf
