The Challenge
The Leibniz Institute DSMZ - German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures GmbH, is one of the world's most diverse collections of microorganisms and cell cultures, including fungi, phages, plant viruses, genomic bacterial DNA, human and animal cell lines, and more. However, they experienced significant logistical challenges that affected their clients. Their primary issue was ensuring the stability of laboratory shipments globally within strict temperature parameters (-70°C) and a tight 96-hour timeframe.
‘We play a crucial role for thousands of organisations worldwide that serve patients, develop products, or conduct research’, explains Dunja Martin, Head of Compliance Management at DSMZ. ‘Our logistics processes were complex, not fully digitised and decentralised, which hindered our scalability and growth. We required a solution to enhance our processes.’
Due to issues with dry ice handling, storage capacity and increasing demand, DSMZ faced a backlog of orders. This lack of transparency in the logistics process led to temperature excursions, which compromised the integrity of the cell cultures and of the microorganisms.
The Solution
To address DSMZ' challenges, UPS Healthcare proposed implementing a comprehensive logistics solution.
- UPS HealthcareTM Cold Chain Packaging
UPS Healthcare provided DSMZ with specialised pre-conditioned packaging meticulously filled with dry ice. These packages were specifically designed to ensure product acceptance at a precise temperature of -79°C, which was crucial for preserving sensitive materials. They also strictly adhered to stringent industry standards, including IATA regulations for UN3373 Category B and UN1845 dry ice packaging requirements. This attention to detail helped guarantee the integrity and safety of the products during transport, allowing for a reliable delivery even under challenging temperature conditions. - Dry Ice Sourcing
A flexible and reliable supply of dry ice effectively resolved the storage challenges that DSMZ encountered. This innovative solution alleviated logistical issues related to dry ice storage and allowed DSMZ to adopt a scalable approach to manage increased demand for their services. By ensuring a consistent supply, operational efficiency and responsiveness improved, ultimately enhancing DSMZ' ability to meet client needs. - UPS® Premier
DSMZ used both UPS® Premier Silver and Gold services to ensure the safety and integrity of their time- and temperature-sensitive shipments. UPS Premier Silver offered essential priority handling, ensuring that packages received expedited processing, along with point-in-time monitoring that allowed for tracking and updates at critical moments during transit. This service was crucial for maintaining the necessary conditions for sensitive materials. On the other hand, UPS Premier Gold provided enhanced real-time visibility, allowing DSMZ to monitor their shipments continuously. This dual approach allowed DSMZ to meet stringent transportation requirements while delivering peace of mind to their clients.
Here is how the two-leg process works:
- First Leg: Packages start at the UPS Healthcare campus, where they are conditioned with dry ice and appropriate packaging. Using UPS Premier Silver, these packages are sent overnight to DSMZ.
- Second Leg: DSMZ inserts their products into the pre-conditioned boxes and applies a UPS Premier Gold label. This elevated visibility to real-time monitoring ensures control tower oversight. The packages are then sent through the UPS International Air Hub at Cologne Airport and delivered within 72 hours to labs, institutes, or pharmaceutical companies across the EU and worldwide, with UPS Healthcare replenishing dry ice as needed.
The Results
After implementing the tailored logistics solution, DSMZ experienced notable improvements:
- Reduction in Backlogs: Streamlined processes and efficient dry ice sourcing allowed DSMZ to clear backlogs and better manage stock.
- Increased Stability of Samples: The combination of UPS Premier and Cold Chain Packaging significantly improved the stability of samples during transit.
- Simplified Logistics Processes: The new system streamlined logistics and digitised processes, resulting in enhanced employee satisfaction and greater operational efficiency.
- Full Scalability: The flexible supply of pre-conditioned packaging with dry ice enabled DSMZ to scale their operations as demand increased.
‘DMSZ has seen remarkable improvements in our logistics processes’, remarked Bettina Fischer, Managing Director at DSMZ. ‘By partnering with UPS Healthcare, we have effectively safeguarded the integrity of our critical shipments worldwide.’
DSMZ' partnership with UPS Healthcare effectively resolved their immediate logistical challenges while also paving the way for future growth and enhanced efficiency. With logistics no longer a concern, DSMZ can now concentrate on their vital bioresearch efforts.
Interested in streamlining your logistics processes like our customers? Learn how UPS Healthcare can help you achieve precision and reliability in your supply chain. Ask an expert today.
