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18. June 2020Dekra’s logistics experts expect new challenges, but also opportunities for pharma logistics due to the Corona crisis. The Dekra specialists anticipate a significant increase in pharmaceutical production facilities in Europe.
(Stuttgart) As a result of the Corona crisis, Dekra logistics experts expect new challenges for the pharmaceutical transport sector. Experts anticipate a significant increase in production facilities for pharmaceutical products and storage capacities in Europe to reduce dependence on overseas supply. Additionally, according to the new Medicines Act, authorities may soon mandate the storage of certain preparations. The high quality standards regarding the transport, storage, and delivery of human medicines may push the European logistics sector to its limits.
To enable stringent control of supply chains for all medicines, the EU guideline for good distribution practice of human medicines (Good Distribution Practice – GDP) has been in effect since 2013. Accordingly, wholesalers, downstream transport companies, and couriers must adhere to the storage requirements set by the manufacturer during transport. Dekra experts are currently observing an increased demand for certifications according to the GDP standard.
High Demands on Pharma Logistics Providers
Companies in pharma logistics must meet high demands: for example, temperature and humidity control of vehicles and storage facilities, or the IT-based networking of cold chains with serial number tracking. Drivers and warehouse staff must also be trained and made aware of the special requirements for handling medicines. Throughout the entire supply chain, the due diligence obligations of both clients and contractors must be documented and verified.
In practice, Dekra auditors often identify weaknesses in storage and transport. Pharmaceutical deliveries, for example, may end up with intermediaries without wholesale licenses or in unsuitable vehicles with inadequate safety measures. Medicines are sometimes not protected from heat and cold during transport. Additionally, there are structural and technical deficiencies in storage facilities.
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