United Cargo has become the first US carrier to lease temperature-controlled shipping containers to meet the increasing demand for pharmaceuticals during the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

The new global rental agreement with ULD provider DoKaSch enables United Cargo’s TempControl customers to lease the DoKaSch Opticooler RAP directly from United Cargo.

With the ability to fit up to five euro pallets or four CP1 Pallets of cargo, the Opticooler helps shippers meet the growing worldwide demand for pharmaceuticals.

United Cargo president Jan Krems said: “It’s more important than ever to move critical medical shipments and other temperature-sensitive cargo swiftly and safely to destinations across the globe.”

Managing director at DoKaSch Temperature Solutions, Andreas Seitz, commented: “We are proud to be the first North American carrier to sign a direct rental agreement with DoKaSch.

“This agreement not only offers TempControl customers more options to suit their needs, but allows us to provide an innovative solution to keep critical supply chains moving during the Covid-19 crisis.”

“Reliable air cargo options for pharmaceutical products are always in high demand, and this is even more true as the world confronts the Covid- 19 pandemic.

“With closed borders and new restrictions every day, a reliable transport infrastructure for highly sensitive pharmaceutical products is crucial.

“Together with United Cargo, we can help sustain a stable global pharma logistics network.”

DoKaSch Temperature Solutions supplies a fleet of highly reliable temperature-regulated containers that are both electrically powered and fully air-conditioned, enabling them to heat as well as cool without using dry ice.

Batteries allow a continuous operation of the container when grid power is not available – enabling transport of the most valuable and sensitive pharmaceuticals without temperature excursions.

Opticoolers may also be used as temporary storage facilities if adequate infrastructure is not available.

Visit unitedcargo.com for more information.