Did you know that on average, we each munch through a whopping 8.8 kg of chocolate every year? That's a lot of sweet treats! But if you run a chocolate business, delivering this delicious treat to your customers in perfect condition can be a real challenge, especially in the summer. High temperatures can cause them to melt and spoil. So, what's the secret to shipping them? Keep reading to find out.
Types of Chocolates To Ship and Avoid Shipping
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When shipping chocolate during the summer, certain types of chocolate can handle the heat better, especially dark chocolate. This is because it has a lower milk content, making it less likely to melt and spoil. Milk chocolate is the next best option due to its higher milk solids and fat content, while white chocolate ranks last since it has a high presence of cocoa butter
If you're considering shipping chocolates that aren't solid bars, like truffles, chocolates with creamy fillings, chocolate-covered strawberries, or those with added ingredients like fruits and nuts, there's an additional risk to consider. This doesn't mean you absolutely can't ship these products; it just means you need to be extra careful.
How to Ship Chocolate During Summer
Let's dive into how you can safely ship chocolates to their destination without turning them melting:
Step 1: Pick the Right Shipping Box
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Start by selecting the right shipping box. It should be big enough to hold your chocolates and the cooling elements, but not so large that the chocolates move around.
When picking a box, think about the type of chocolates you're shipping. If they are small or individual pieces, you might want a box with compartments or dividers. Also, consider the material of the box. Corrugated cardboard is a popular choice because it's strong yet lightweight. It also provides some insulation due to the air pockets in its structure.
Step 2: Place an Absorbent Pad at the Bottom
Next up, you need to make sure that your package can handle condensation or unexpected leaks, especially in the summer. To prevent condensation, place an absorbent pad at the bottom of your box. Choose one that's appropriately sized. It should cover the entire bottom surface without bunching up or leaving exposed areas.
Step 3: Insulate the Box
If you want your chocolates to survive, you need to insulate the box to protect it from the outside temperatures. There are a few good options. One is using foam panels. They're lightweight, easy to cut, and provide excellent thermal resistance.
Another great option is insulated liners. These are often made of reflective materials like Mylar, which is effective for reflecting heat away from the box. Bubble wrap with a reflective surface can also double as insulation.
Remember, when you insulate your chocolate box, make sure there are no gaps or open spots. The goal is to create an unbroken barrier that fully encloses your chocolates.
Step 4: Add Cold Packs
Next up, you need to add dry ice packs or gel packs to your shipping container. Choose ice packs that can stay cold for a long time, have a high melting point, and won't leak when they thaw.
Before placing the ice pack in the box, wrap them in a thin layer of bubble wrap or a plastic bag to prevent sugar bloom. Also, place them around the sides of the box, not directly on top of the chocolates. If your box is large, consider using multiple ice packs to ensure even cooling throughout the box.
Step 5: Wrap the Chocolates in Mylar Bubble Wrap
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To give your chocolates extra protection, think about wrapping them in Mylar bubble wrap. Due to its reflective surface, it's a fantastic insulator and also provides a cushioning effect due to the bubble feature. For individual chocolates or smaller pieces, consider wrapping them individually. If you're shipping chocolate bars or larger items, you can wrap them together.
Step 6: Arrange Them in the Box
Now that your chocolates are nicely wrapped in Mylar bubble wrap, it's time to arrange them in the box. Start by laying out your chocolates in a way that ensures they don't touch each other. If you have different sizes or shapes of chocolates, consider arranging them in such a way that the heavier or larger pieces don't crush the smaller or more delicate ones. And don't forget to leave room for the ice packs.
Step 7: Seal the Box and Add Packing Peanuts
Now, it's time to seal the box. Use strong, durable tape to securely close the box. Don't just tape the top and bottom flaps; also reinforce the edges and corners where stress is most likely to occur during handling. Consider using a tape that's specifically designed for shipping.
Make sure the seal is airtight and covers all the seams. A well-sealed box will prevent any warm air from sneaking in and will also help in keeping the cool air inside.
Step 8: Consider Double Boxing
Consider double boxing to protect your chocolates from unpredictable summer conditions. This method involves placing your already packed and sealed box inside a larger one
When choosing the outer box, make sure it's slightly larger than the inner one. There should be enough space to accommodate extra packing materials, like additional packing peanuts, foam, or bubble wrap.
Step 9: Add Shipping Labels and Instructions
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The last thing to do when preparing your chocolate shipment is to add the shipping labels and instructions. Use labels or stickers that say "Keep Cool" or "Handle with Care". Place these labels on multiple sides of the box so they can be seen from any angle. For added precaution, include a label or note that says "Do Not Leave in Direct Sunlight" or "Do Not Leave in Hot Vehicle."
If your shipment has specific storage instructions upon arrival, such as refrigeration, include these details as well. If you're shipping internationally, make sure you have all the right customs labels and paperwork filled out correctly. This will prevent delays.
Summary
Shipping chocolate in summer doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right preparation and care, you can ensure your delicious treats arrive in perfect condition.
And for that extra protection, don't forget to use Nice Packs dry ice packs. Nice Packs are specifically designed to maintain a cooler temperature for longer durations, ensuring your chocolates stay solid and delicious, even on the hottest summer days. Shop with us today.
