MARCH 24, 2025

Case Study: Shipping Cancer Diagnostics Globally by Air Freight 

By: Benjamin Weitman, Logistics & Customer Service Manager, Cancer Research and Clinical Diagnostics 

I work for a global medical device company offering FDA-cleared and RUO laboratory-developed tests (LDTs) used to detect and analyze circulating tumor cells in human blood.  Our minimally invasive liquid biopsy approach allows these tests to enable optimized patient care and comfort throughout the patient’s therapeutic journey. Here is our story: 

Photo of one of the shipments loading onto the aircraft at Chicago (ORD) also after arrival in Shanghai (PVG)

Situation 

We are shipping medical device tests and Reagents globally, including from USA to Italy, China, and Singapore. 

Previously we used various technologies of bulk reusable temperature-controlled solutions, but began looking for more suitable, efficient, reliable, cost effective, sustainable options. 

One key goal was reducing quality incidences. We were having many issues with warehouses damaging containers while being moved on forklifts. Damaged containers take significant time and cost to review containers. 

Solution 

We are so happy we discovered the Pegasus ULD advanced passive Temperature Control Container. We’ve had no single Quality issues with the Pegasus.  The height and fit work really well, helping to reduce human error we were previously seeing in the warehouses and depots. 

Ease of loading 

Compared to other packaging solutions used, the inner dimensions of the Pegasus ULD allow for higher cargo capacity, wider access for our US size pallets eliminating risk of damage to product and/or container, also easier front loading of a pallet. 

Payload security 

The Pegasus ULD makes it easier for operators to apply a tamper evident seal to the unit.  It’s 100% clear how to seal the unit. It also gives reassurance the telemetry is behind plastic shielding, which is safer and tamper resistant. 

Telemetry and transparency 

In addition to our own data loggers, the Pegasus ULD tracks temperature, light, shock and geo location. Data instills confidence. Real Time visibility on location of shipment and essential data on progress during transit gives additional security and peace of mind in case of human error which is common in supply chains.  

Performance 

Thermal performance 300+ hours of 2-8 Degree Celsius in an unbroken cold chain door to door. For me, the passive technology is one of the most important features of the Pegasus ULD system. The fact that the PCMs can regenerate when stored correctly, is our main safeguard for quality. Our brokers will follow SOPs to ensure cargo is stored correctly.  

Partnership 

“I appreciate so much working with a partner like Sonoco ThermoSafe.  Together we have built a customer/vendor relationship that I value so greatly.  The ease, flexibility and reliability into every step of the process and our partnership is something I have not seen matched with my past use of 5 other different big name ULD vendors. I am 100% confident that our medical diagnostic shipments will reach destination in temperature specification and with the highest quality intended for our patients and customers”. 

– – Benjamin Weitman, Logistics & Customer Service Manager, Cancer Research and Clinical Diagnostics 

To learn more about the Pegasus ULD advanced passive aircraft certified Temperature Control Container, visit https://www.thermosafe.com/products/pre-qualified-solutions/rental-solutions/pegasus-uld/