Solving complex intercontinental logistics for breakthrough MS therapy
The situation
For individuals living with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Bulgaria, the introduction of a novel vaccine by a global pharmaceutical company signified more than just medical progress. Created with precision at a facility in South America, this vaccine had shown promising results in reducing the frequency of MS relapses, offering the potential for an improved quality of life.
However, the challenge lay in logistics: due to the smaller scale of Sofia’s airport facilities, it was ill-equipped to handle large cargo shipments. This presented a critical bottleneck that could potentially prevent these essential medications from reaching patients who were relying on them for better health outcomes.
The solution
Recognizing the profound impact on patient health and well-being, we embraced this challenge with determination and innovative thinking. World Courier organized multiple comprehensive planning sessions involving local experts from the origin in South America and representatives from the pharmaceutical company to devise a viable transportation strategy.
Logistical complexities of the therapy included maintaining a strict temperature range of +2°C to +8°C to ensure efficacy. Ensuring a continuous cold chain from the manufacturing facility in South America to end-users in Bulgaria involved sophisticated logistics, such as using specialized insulated containers and real-time temperature tracking to prevent excursions. Additionally, preserving an unbroken chain of custody was critical, requiring meticulous documentation and handling procedures at every stage of the journey.
The solution — routing shipments via Frankfurt — was born out of our commitment to patient-centric delivery. On the first leg of their journey, therapies would be flown from South America to Frankfurt. Upon arrival, they would be transferred to World Courier’s ground network for transport by road to Bulgaria. This method was crucial as it mitigated the risk associated with multiple integrators handling the shipments, thus reducing potential breaks in the chain of custody. Unlike our competitors, who required more legs of the journey with different network integrators, World Courier’s global network ensured a seamless transition.
Our large facility in Frankfurt played a key role in this strategy. It allowed for replenishment of phase change materials (PCMs) if there was ever a risk of temperature deviation, maintaining the integrity of these life-saving therapies. With the shipment being in custody of World Courier, rather than an airline’s warehouse, we could better manage, monitor, and control them throughout their journey. This ensured they were handled according to our stringent quality standard operating procedures (SOPs).
To ensure the therapy’s integrity during transit, we utilized our packaging solution Cocoon, renowned for its robustness and reliability over nearly a decade of use. This comprehensive solution involves planning, packaging, and shipping with a single partner, ensuring seamless coordination throughout the entire process. Designed in-house with a deep understanding of pharmaceutical cold chain requirements, Cocoon boasts an exceptional reputation for transporting high-value, time-sensitive pharmaceutical products. This approach went beyond maintaining temperature; it was about preserving hope — providing MS patients with uninterrupted access to this critical therapy.
Our resolve was put to the test when an unexpected strike at Frankfurt Airport jeopardized one crucial shipment. Our proactive response involved seamless coordination between our teams across continents and constant communication with all stakeholders involved. PCMs were replenished in Germany to avoid any temperature caused by the delay. This agile approach ensured that every single dose remained uncompromised, underscoring our unwavering dedication to logistical excellence.
Outcome
Through these concerted efforts, World Courier achieved more than just successful deliveries; we played a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare access for MS patients by transporting over 53,000 doses of this vital therapy. Each dose arrived safely and in good condition, ready to make an immediate impact on patients’ lives throughout Bulgaria and beyond its borders.
Our contribution transcended traditional logistics — we became integral partners in delivering supply chain solutions where each successful delivery marked an improvement in someone’s life journey with MS.
