For clinical trial managers, the list of planning variables can seem endless. Cohort selection and patient recruitment, regulatory engagement and compliance, data management and security; each aspect presents unique challenges that could result in trial failure if not well managed. Logistics is another potential headache, with trials requiring global transport of medicines, hazardous materials, patient cells and samples.

Clinical trials are one of the most demanding areas within life science logistics, requiring efficient delivery of novel, sensitive medicines all over the world. These trials often involve numerous cross-border shipments with associated customs requirements. Whatever the shipment type, it is crucial to protect the integrity and quality of the medicine or sample, to ensure that the clinical trial is safe and that data generated from the trial is accurate.

So, is clinical trial logistics as nightmarish as it sounds or could it actually present an opportunity for the industry?