During the last few decades, biomedical engineers have contributed to several new drug delivery modes and overcome physiological barriers — such as transport in the circulatory system and drug movement through cells and tissues — to increase a drug’s effectiveness.
Although this type of drug delivery works on a molecular level, transporting vital medicines from warehouses to pharmacies is also an essential type of delivery in the opinion of Goplasticpallets.com Managing Director, Jim Hardisty (pictured).
Jim says: “I am not a biochemist, but I am an expert in plastic returnable transit packaging (RTP). Having worked in the logistics industry for more than 30 years, I have seen how important a reliable logistics strategy is in the pharmaceutical industry.”
“At Goplasticpallets.com, we have worked on a broad range of projects with our pharmaceutical customers during our 21 years in business. One of the most notable was supporting the production of the second COVID-19 vaccine across several continents."
"Our Qpall 1208 HR 5R plastic pallet was utilised to transport one of the vital ingredients that made up the vaccine. This pallet was essential in the logistics strategy as it ensured that the vaccine could be rolled out as quickly as possible.”
Jim Hardisty
“There are enormous benefits to using plastic pallets, boxes or containers to help manufacture, store and transport medicines, but when we look at the last stage of delivery, our Attached Lid Containers (ALCs) are a reliable, reusable, and secure solution.
"These containers ensure that drugs and other medicines are safely and securely transported from the distribution warehouses to all types of pharmacies up and down the country.”
“Made from Polypropylene (PP), they are strong and durable. They have rigid sides, a solid base and folding lids that secure the contents. Tamper-evident seals can also be added for extra security. In some instances, being able to easily identify containers and their contents is essential."
"ALCs can be colour-coded with different coloured lids and branded with company logos. There are also recesses in the container so that drop-in barcode labels can be added. This allows manufacturers and customers to track their goods at each step of the delivery process.”
“Our range of ALCs is available in five different sizes, ranging from the smallest size container at 400 (L) x 300 (W) x 300 mm (H) to the largest size measuring 710 (L) x 460 (W) x 368 mm (H). The containers’ handles make them easy to lift and they’re also designed to be safely stacked on top of each other for efficient stacking when loaded in a van. When empty, the containers can nest neatly inside each other to save space on return logistics.”
“As well as strength and security, these containers offer a long-lasting and cost-effective solution. They can be used repeatedly and last much longer than containers made from cardboard or wood. Unlike wooden or cardboard alternatives, these plastic containers are waterproof, adding another level of protection for their contents. This also means the containers can easily be washed and dried when required to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.”
“An ALC’s longevity will also make this product a much more cost-effective option compared with cardboard and wooden boxes. Plastic returnable transit packaging will last at least 10 times longer than wood or cardboard. Plastic RTP can provide many benefits in the drugs delivery process and is a vital part of any pharmaceutical company’s logistics strategy.”