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DHL Express’ cold chain technologies: Shipping pharmaceuticals overseas

February 13, 2024 5 Mins Read

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Cambodia's pharmaceutical scene is on the brink of a boom, with economic and political winds blowing in favour of a robust expansion. By 2028, the market's pulse is set to quicken, pushing its value to an impressive US$232.90 million, according to Statista. It's not just the numbers telling a success story; initiatives like the World Bank-backed Health Equity and Quality Improvement Project are expected to broaden healthcare access and create opportunities for generic drug manufacturers and other businesses in Cambodia’s expanding pharmaceutical market.

Central to this growth is the pivotal role of logistics, with DHL Express emerging as a crucial player. This article will explore how DHL Express’ logistical support and expertise in cold chain management assist companies in successfully shipping medicines, medical equipment and biological samples overseas.

How is DHL Express supporting the shipping of pharmaceutical products?

When shipping medical samples or sending medicines overseas, the right temperature can mean the difference between life-saving efficacy and compromised quality. DHL Express stands out in this regard. Our comprehensive cold chain logistics solution, DHL Medical Express (WMX), provides the precision and care necessary for shipping sensitive medical products across borders.

Cold chain management for temperature-sensitive shipments

The distribution of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals presents unique challenges. The efficacy of many pharmaceuticals hinges on consistent temperature control throughout the supply chain. Using thermal packaging and refrigeration storage is critical, as is the use of temperature-monitoring devices to ensure conditions remain within an acceptable range during transit. DHL Express Cambodia addresses these through its specialised cold chain logistics management services.

1. Specialised trucks and air cargo solutions

For long-distance or international shipments, DHL Express uses air transport options with specialised cargo holds that are designed to store pharmaceuticals at stable temperatures. These are equipped with temperature control systems and smart sensors that constantly monitor and regulate temperature changes throughout the shipment's journey. This is to prevent any fluctuations that could compromise the medication's quality.

2. Temperature-controlled packaging solutions

To further ensure product integrity and compliance, DHL Express utilises temperature-controlled packaging solutions, safeguarding the pharmaceuticals from any alterations. For example, thermo packaging solutions are used to transport biological samples, with different solutions tailored to various temperature requirements. For those requiring sub-zero temperatures (below -20°C), dry ice supplies are used, while for those needing temperatures of 2 to 8°C, pharmacool cassettes are used within medium-sized boxes.

3. Reliable tracking and monitoring

Real-time tracking systems provide visibility and control, allowing for immediate action if a shipment deviates from its intended route or experiences conditions that could compromise its integrity.

DHL Express ensures that every medical shipment is closely monitored. With real-time tracking, they provide constant oversight, ensuring shipments stay on course and maintain their condition. The Global Quality Control Centre offers 24/7 support, ready to respond to any issues that arise during transit. Additionally, DHL's team of over 9,000 Certified Life Science Healthcare Specialists are trained to manage shipments from healthcare facilities, guaranteeing expert handling and timely deliveries.

4. Flexible options and prioritised delivery

DHL Express’ commitment to delivering medications promptly, especially those with limited shelf lives, is underpinned by offering several solutions, including:

Optimised shipping routes: DHL Express carefully plans and selects the most efficient and fastest routes for shipping. By doing this, it minimises transit times and ensures that medicines arrive at their destinations swiftly, reducing the risk of expiration or loss of potency.
First-stop delivery: With the WMX service, medical shipments are given top priority within DHL's network. This means that shipments are collected as late as possible and dispatched via the quickest service option available, ensuring first-stop delivery by DHL Express’ dedicated couriers.
Saturday delivery: DHL Express offers a Saturday Delivery option, ensuring that essential medications can be received even outside of standard business hours. This flexibility is critical for time-sensitive deliveries and provides an additional layer of convenience for healthcare providers and patients.

This meticulous planning and flexibility are part of DHL's commitment to on-time delivery in optimal conditions, reaching over 165 countries within 24, 48, or 72 hours, depending on the destination. We ensure that even the most isolated regions in Cambodia have access to essential pharmaceuticals.

Expertise in customs compliance and transportation regulation for pharmaceutical shipments

Pharmaceuticals are heavily regulated worldwide. Shippers must be conversant with the transportation regulations of medications in both the origin and destination countries, including licensing, customs, and handling of controlled substances. It’s pertinent that shipments adhere to international trade compliance requirements or risk hefty fines or punishing delays. DHL Express brings to the table its global expertise, facilitating the shipping of pharmaceutical products with ease. This includes:

Dangerous goods (DG) compliance: DHL Express’ proficiency ensures that shipments containing hazardous substances are handled according to strict safety standards, meeting all legal requirements for both origin and destination countries.
Customs documentation expertise: Preparing all necessary export and import documentation in advance minimises the risk of delays in customs. With a thorough knowledge of customs procedures, DHL Express simplifies the process, ensuring all necessary documentation is in order, which is crucial in avoiding customs delays.
Dedicated customer service with industry knowledge: DHL Express’ customer service team is not just a help desk but a group of professionals with specialised industry knowledge. They provide guidance on preparing shipments, applying for export licences, and adhering to the specific requirements or prohibitions of the shipping destination.

With DHL Express, shippers gain a partner that is not only adept at managing the logistics of pharmaceuticals but also ensures that every shipment is treated with the highest level of care and precision, from documentation to delivery.

DHL Express’ contribution to Cambodia’s healthcare accessibility

DHL Express Cambodia offers solutions that address the unique needs of pharmaceutical transportation. From compliance to cold chain technologies, and from best practices in warehousing to expertise in import and export processes, DHL Express’ comprehensive services are indispensable. For businesses looking to navigate the complex terrain of pharmaceutical distribution in Cambodia, we offer the expertise, reliability, and innovative solutions needed to succeed. Food and beverage businesses seeking to ship perishable goods can also leverage the cold chain transport capabilities of DHL Express.

Open a DHL Express business account to access its advantages and successfully ship internationally.

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