Depending on the complexity of your creations and the ingredients, the average chocolate confection melts at around 86-90 degrees Fahrenheit. Chocolate is considered perishable by nature, which is why time is of the essence when shipping your finished products. Be sure to check the weather forecast for the coming week's temperatures and carefully weigh which day is best for shipping.
Contents Know when chocolate melts Store chocolate in the fridge Plan your delivery accordingly Use smart packaging Aim for fast deliveryFor example, if you know that Wednesday will bring scorching heat, it is better to postpone the expedition. However, it all depends on the flexibility of your company's shipping schedule. If you provide guaranteed delivery dates, that's a different story because you'll still have to meet them.
Regardless of when you plan to ship your chocolates, be sure to store them in the refrigerator to ensure longevity. It should be kept in mind, however, that some chocolate products require storage at room temperature to ensure taste integrity.
It also goes without saying that you should try to store your chocolates away from direct sunlight or any heat source. Your delivery will take longer than expected? If so, frozen gel packs can ensure the chocolates arrive safe and sound without melting. As a side note, these gel packs should always be properly protected with a plastic bag to ensure that while melting they do not damage your finished product packaging.
Before planning the official delivery, be sure to plan the delivery well in advance. This means considering the weather, necessary packaging, potential fees attached and permits. Most chocolate companies avoid shipping anything on holidays or weekends because there is just too much traffic.
Keep your customers informed of any changes you make to your shipping schedule. They deserve to know what charges are related to their shipping costs and how long they have to wait until delivery.
It's best to schedule a pickup with your courier to ensure your chocolates are delivered in a timely manner. Always close the shipping box properly and have the appropriate documentation at hand, as well as note the perishable and fragile nature of the products outside the box.
You need a good strategy to wrap your chocolates in an attractive way. Not only should boxes provide adequate protection during shipping, but they should also offer something nice to look at. Here are some favorite materials that many chocolate sellers choose to use:
*Insulated boxes are available in a number of designs with sleeves, liners or pallets to provide the necessary protection. Choose a box that is at least twice the size of what you are shipping, as this will allow you to pack the chocolates inside.
*Bubble wrap is an integral part of ensuring your chocolates arrive in one piece. They are delicate foods, so good padding can prevent damage when the chocolates jostle around the box.
*Plastic tubes are a great way to present your chocolate gifts; they are versatile and offer great protection. Learn more at https://www.plastechgroup.com/plastic-tubes/tubes-and-containers.
* Cold compresses can help ensure the temperature is adequate inside the shipping container to prevent melting. They act as a sort of cooler interior of the box to provide the necessary environment for the chocolates in transit.
Quick note:As a seller, you can also provide instructions in your packaging on how the recipient should store or preserve the chocolates.
Chocolate has a fairly low melting point and that means fast delivery is essential. Be sure to ship the chocolates via overnight or next day delivery. If possible, choose same day delivery! Ultimately, the less time spent in transit, the better the chocolates' chances of survival.