Help Centre

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our pharmaceutical logistics services, compliance requirements, and transport procedures.

General Questions

What services does Biopharma Logistics provide?

Biopharma Logistics provides comprehensive pharmaceutical logistics services including temperature-controlled transport (all ranges from +2/+8°C to cryogenic), GDP-compliant handling, international air and sea freight, courier services for clinical trials, consultation on thermal packaging solutions, and complete documentation including customs clearance.

What geographic areas do you serve?

We serve clients worldwide. Our base near Düsseldorf, Germany provides excellent access to European markets, and through our global carrier and partner network, we can arrange shipments to any destination globally via air freight, sea freight, or courier services.

How quickly can you arrange transport?

For urgent requests, we can respond within hours and arrange same-day or next-day delivery for domestic shipments. For international shipments, we recommend 24–48 hours notice for optimal routing and packaging. We also offer a 24/7 emergency hotline for time-critical situations.

What makes Biopharma Logistics different from other providers?

Our specialisation in pharmaceutical logistics means we understand the unique challenges — see more in this pharma FAQ of transporting sensitive biological materials. We offer personalised service, expert consultation on packaging and routing, complete regulatory compliance, and over 10 years of experience in the life sciences industry. Unlike general logistics providers, we focus exclusively on temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical and biotech shipments.

Temperature Control & Packaging

What temperature ranges can you handle?

We transport products across all common ranges: +2/+8°C (cold chain for vaccines and biologics), +15/+25°C (controlled room temperature), −25/−15°C (frozen transport), dry ice at −78°C for ultra-cold requirements, and liquid nitrogen for cryogenic transport of cell lines and biological specimens.

How do you ensure temperature maintenance during transport?

We use qualified thermal packaging systems selected based on season, route, and transport duration. All shipments can include temperature data loggers for continuous monitoring. We analyse climate conditions along the route and select packaging validated for the specific journey.

Do I need to provide my own packaging?

No, we can provide complete thermal packaging solutions. Part of our consultation service includes selecting the optimal packaging for your specific shipment. We have extensive knowledge of available thermal shippers and can advise on the most cost-effective solution. However, if you prefer to use your own qualified packaging, we accommodate that as well.

What happens if temperature excursions occur?

Temperature excursions must be reported immediately upon detection. If data loggers are used, we can provide complete temperature records for investigation. We have documented procedures for handling deviations and work with clients to determine product viability. Prevention through proper planning, qualified packaging, and route optimisation is our priority.

Compliance & Regulations

Are you GDP-certified?

Yes, we operate according to GDP (Good Distribution Practice) standards and are pursuing full GDP certification alongside our operational activities. This pharma FAQ entry covers our current certification status. We are certified by the German Aviation Authority (LBA) as a Known Consignor — prerequisite certifications for pharmaceutical air freight.

Do you handle customs clearance?

Yes, we support the entire customs clearance process. We review all regulatory requirements and country-specific regulations for both origin and destination countries in advance. We prepare all necessary documentation and work with customs authorities to ensure smooth clearance, including special categories like controlled substances and biological materials.

Can you transport controlled substances (BTM)?

Yes, we can transport controlled substances according to strict legal requirements. This includes narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and other regulated materials. We ensure full compliance with all applicable laws, including enhanced security protocols and specialised documentation.

What documentation do you provide?

We provide complete transport documentation including air waybills, commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, GDP temperature documentation, dangerous goods declarations (if applicable), customs documentation, and temperature monitoring records. All documentation is prepared according to regulatory requirements and available in electronic or paper format.

Costs & Pricing

How are your services priced?

Pricing depends on destination, weight/volume, temperature requirements, urgency, and packaging needs. We provide transparent quotations including all costs: transport, packaging, documentation, and applicable fees. We offer volume discounts for regular shipments and are competitive while maintaining the highest quality standards.

Is insurance included?

Transport insurance is arranged separately and is not included in the base price unless explicitly agreed. Given the high value of many pharmaceutical shipments, we strongly recommend adequate coverage. We can facilitate insurance arrangements and advise on appropriate levels.

What payment terms do you offer?

Standard payment terms are 14 days from invoice date. For established clients with regular shipments, we can discuss customised terms. We accept bank transfers and major business payment methods. For new clients, prepayment or payment on delivery may be required for the first shipment.

Clinical Trials Pharma FAQ

Do you support clinical trial logistics?

Yes, we specialise in clinical trial logistics including courier services for sample collection and delivery, investigational medicinal product (IMP) distribution, emergency shipments, temperature-controlled storage and distribution, and complete documentation for regulatory compliance.

Can you handle sample pickup from patient homes?

Yes, we can arrange sample collection from patient homes, trial sites, or any specified location within our service areas. This includes providing temperature-controlled packaging and ensuring timely delivery to the processing laboratory. We maintain chain of custody documentation throughout the process.

Still have questions?

Our team is here to help.

Contact us for personalised answers to your specific logistics questions.