Gel packs or rigid eutectic plates? Count trips and returns

Do not compare purchase prices alone. Record completed shipments, returns, labour and storage capacity for each option.

11 March 2022Updated 23 September 2026

Short answer

First confirm both options' phase-change range suits your product and verify them in a transport trial. Then divide gel packs consumed and rigid plates purchased or lost by completed shipments, adding freezer space, labour and returns to the comparison.

Choosing gel packs or rigid eutectic plates depends on product compatibility and how the shipment operates. A rigid plate is not automatically more effective or reusable on every trip.

Verify fit first

Ask the supplier for the plate's phase-change range and conditioning instructions; request technical details for the gel product too. Trial both with the same load, container and route using a logger. Keep product and ambient readings separate.

Calculate actual cost per shipment

For the same review period, record gel packs purchased, rigid plates lost or damaged, conditioning labour and storage space. Divide spending by completed shipments; use actual returns instead of assumed reuse.

Sources and correction policy for this article

Topics:Eutectics and insulation Cost and investment Managing reusable containers

Cold chain logistics →Isotec guide hub →What the cold chain is →