United Cargo signs on as a SkyCell cold-chain partner

United Cargo is now the first US-based carrier to partner with SkyCell, a provider of a novel type of passive (non-powered) temperature-controlled container for pharma shipments. For life sciences shippers, the combination means that they will have other options when considering containers for long-haul, temperature-sensitive shipments: SkyCell positions itself as a lower-weight, smaller carbon-footprint provider relative to active (powered) containers that have onboard refrigeration and heating, while a more reliable and longer-lasting option relative to other passive containers. Its range of metal-walled containers range from the 2500 (4.7 cu. m, or 166 cu. ft) to the 770 (1.92 cu. m, or 68 cu. ft). The 2-8°C configuration is said to provide temperature control for up to 160 hours.

“TempControl’s transport of vaccines and other high-value biopharmaceutical shipments is increasing rapidly,” said Jan Krems, president of United Cargo, referring to United’s brand of cold-chain service. “Extremely precise, long-duration temperature control is required for the safe transport of these highly sensitive shipments; that’s why we’re very excited to launch this partnership.”

SkyCell has similar relationships with other air carriers; recent announcements include Singapore Air, AirBridge Cargo and Air France KLM Martinair Cargo.

United was also in the news for winning the Cargo Carrier of the Year-North America at 2019 Asian Freight, Logistics and Supply Chain conference, as voted by subscribers of Asia Cargo News, a trade publication sponsoring the award. United Cargo operates 4,900 flights daily, across five continents.