A leading biopharmaceutical manufacturer transitioned from pre-qualified thermal packaging to a bespoke solution for the distribution of its Phase III temperature-sensitive clinical trial products. This strategic shift, in collaboration with Topa Thermal, significantly optimised their logistics process, reduced product damage risks, and lowered operating costs.
Challenge and Solution: The biopharma manufacturer faced a complex three-leg distribution challenge for its Phase III clinical trial product. The product required robust thermal and mechanical protection across various shipping stages, from manufacturing in Singapore to final distribution in Europe and beyond.
“It’s important to remember the full story is not just about thermal constraints, but also mechanical requirements,” said a principal scientist at the biopharmaceutical company.
Topa Thermal, a leading provider of thermal packaging solutions, evaluated the pre-qualified systems and identified several limitations, including insufficient mechanical protection and size constraints. They recommended a bespoke thermal packaging solution that addressed these issues, ensuring product integrity and optimising transport efficiency.
“We found the EPS system had several limitations; unsecured bottles that could move around, there were temperature excursion risks, and it wasn’t sufficiently robust,” explained Maarten Kleverlaan, Technical Solution Manager at Topa Thermal.
Benefits: The bespoke thermal packaging solution designed and manufactured by Topa Thermal included:
- Enhanced mechanical protection with corrugated components
- Optimised bulk transport, reducing costs and increasing efficiency
- Improved thermal performance, preventing temperature excursions
- Streamlined packaging process, saving time and resources
“The custom packaging solution incorporates a corrugated box with protective inner placeholders, ensuring products are secure and protected,” added Maarten Kleverlaan.
“The long-term benefits of this strategic change have been invaluable. Investing in a tailored approach has proven to be a game-changer for the scaling of our distribution process,” the principal scientist confirmed.