Plant Shipping Warmers – How to Choose the Right UniHeat Pack

Posted by UniHeatPacks on 21st Aug 2025

Plant Shipping Warmers – How to Choose the Right UniHeat Pack

When shipping live plants, protecting them from cold shock is essential. The right plant shipping warmer provides steady, gentle heat so tropicals, succulents, and rare cuttings arrive healthy. Below is a quick way to match UniHeat shipping warmers to your route, season, and box size.

Disclaimer: The guidance below is informational and based on typical use. Always consider your local weather, carrier timelines, and plant needs. Test pack performance before large shipments. UniHeat is not responsible for carrier delays or misuse.

Quick Compare: UniHeat Plant Shipping Warmers

Duration Best For Typical Transit Link
40-Hour Short routes, mild weather 1–2 days Shop UniHeat 40-Hour Warmer
72-Hour Most U.S. shipments 2–3 days Shop UniHeat 72-Hour Warmer
96-Hour Long haul, remote, winter routes 3–5 days Shop UniHeat 96-Hour Warmer

Why Heat Packs Matter for Plant Shipping

Even brief exposure to low temperatures can damage foliage and roots. A properly chosen warmer keeps the interior of a well-insulated box within a safer range during transit, reducing stress and losses.

How to Choose the Right UniHeat Pack

1) Match Duration to Transit Time

  • 40-Hour Warmers: Regional shipments and 1–2 day services.
  • 72-Hour Warmers: Standard choice for 2–3 day U.S. routes.
  • 96-Hour Warmers: Long haul, winter weather, remote zones, or likely delays.

2) Consider Plant Type

  • Tropicals & orchids: choose longer durations in cool seasons.
  • Succulents & cacti: shorter durations often suffice on quick routes.

3) Check Season & Destination

  • Mild conditions: lean 40–72 hour.
  • Freezing nights / wintry routes: start at 72; consider 96 for buffers.

4) Box Size, Insulation & Oxygen

  • Insulated liners stabilize temperature and extend pack effectiveness.
  • Small boxes may run warmer; choose duration accordingly and allow some airflow.

Pro Tips for Best Results

  • Pre-activate 30–60 minutes before packing; confirm it’s warm to the touch.
  • Placement: wrap in paper and place away from leaves; never directly against plants.
  • Ventilation: heat packs need oxygen; don’t make the box airtight.
  • Don’t stack durations: two 40-hour packs ≠ one 80-hour pack (it just increases heat output).
Note on Formats: UniHeat currently offers adhesive warmers. The adhesive backing doesn’t need to be removed to function; it simply helps position the pack securely inside the box.

Shop UniHeat Plant Shipping Warmers


Frequently Asked Questions

How do I verify a pack is active before shipping?

After opening the outer packaging and exposing the pack to air, wait 30–60 minutes. It should feel warm to the touch. If not, gently shake to help airflow and re-check.

Can I use multiple packs in one box?

Yes, but only for larger, well-insulated shipments. Multiple packs increase total heat output; they do not extend duration. Monitor carefully to avoid overheating.

Should I include heat packs in mild weather?

Use them when night temps on the route risk dipping near plant tolerance levels. In warm conditions, skip the pack to avoid heat stress.

Where exactly should I place the pack?

Wrap in paper and position near the top or side of the insulated cavity, with a small air gap from foliage. Do not seal the box airtight—packs require some oxygen.

Are UniHeat packs plant-safe?

Yes—when used as directed. They’re non-toxic and designed for shipping live goods. Always follow the activation and placement tips above.

Reminder: Always test your packing method and duration choice with a small shipment before scaling, especially during extreme weather.

Ready to ship with confidence? Browse all UniHeat plant shipping warmers.