Tips for shipping medical supplies and goods

Shipping medical supplies can be one of the more challenging categories of goods to ship. Precision is everything and proper, prompt delivery is essential. In some cases, lives are on the line. 

Today, we’re going to share some tips your company can use to pack and ship your medical supplies and goods so that they’re more secure, safe and have a better chance of getting to their intended destination and in as good working order as possible. Let’s jump right in!

Machinery/equipment

When we’re talking blood analyzers, microscopes, surgical equipment and the like, you’ll want to make sure these items are properly packed for shipping. First thing you want to do is make sure everything is in its original packaging. This includes the motor, power supply and any other components that come with the machine. 

Second, make sure all cables and wires are secured – preferably with packing tape. This’ll prevent any tangling or damage while enroute. Last – make sure everything is bubble wrapped. At first, this might seem a little excessive, but the extra layer of protection can go a long way. 

Medication and prescriptions

We definitely recommend that the first thing you do when you pack and ship meds is to label it correctly. Even if there’s a label – label it again to make sure it’s more obvious. This will help avoid any confusion or potential mix-ups that might occur during delivery. 

Second – make sure you use insulation or temperature controlled packaging. Believe it or not, temperature can have an adverse effect on a variety of medications so we recommend that you avoid that issue but getting insulated and temperature controlled packaging. Many boxes and packaging materials are designed specifically for keeping medications at a consistent temperature so make sure you do your homework. 

Lab Materials

If you’re a practicing physician, you’ll want to take a few extra steps whenever you pack lab samples. First – just as was the case with medications – pack them with insulated and temperature controlled packaging as too much heat/too much cold can ruin your sample. Second, make sure everything is labeled with the proper clinical information on it. Name, DOB, and any other important information. This helps so that your sample is tested and identified correctly. 

And last but not least-  keep proper records of your shipments. Especially when it comes to lab samples, this will help avoid future confusion and keep delivery staff honest and upfront about what is going where. 

We hope you found today’s blog helpful. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call today. Until then, good luck!