Cellbox Solutions is a biotechnology company that develops innovative solutions for the transport of live cell cultures, tissues and other cell samples anywhere in the world. Its Cellbox product is a self-sufficient carbon dioxide incubator that enables the storage, propagation, transport and analysis of biological materials.
The logistics challenge
A UK-based biomedical company required a safe and secure transatlantic transportation solution for a special shipment of delicate iPSC-derived epithelial cells - from the UK to the US. Working in collaboration with Rhenus and Cellbox, a solution was identified.
Cellbox deployed a portable CO2 incubator, approved for international flights, that provides laboratory conditions for the transportation of living cells. Due to their sensitivity, the cells could not be exposed to the X-Ray screening process during customs checks at the departing border, as this would almost certainly have damaged the shipment.
The process – including collection of the cells from Cambridge, UK, export clearance at UK customs, transportation, checking the set parameters of the Cellbox, import clearance at US customs and delivery to Fort Worth, Texas – needed to be completed within 24 hours to avoid any deterioration of the materials.
Proposed solution
Rhenus’s carried out an extensive assessment of the potential risks. Given the highly sensitive nature of the shipment, a safe and secure transportation solution not only required meticulous planning but also a deep understanding of customs procedures at both UK and US borders.
Rhenus delivered a bespoke solution which included the presence of a qualified on-board courier to protect the Cellbox. Specialising in human cell transportation, this courier was also familiar with customs procedures at origin and destination, facilitating a smooth transition.
Bringing together experts with a passion to provide a first class service and solution to clients, Rhenus and its approved suppliers were able to help the customer achieve its goal of door to door delivery to the US just under 16 hours after collection - comfortably within the 24-hour time limit.