GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 24, 2026

Good Distribution Practice Cold Chain

Good Distribution Practice (GDP) for cold chain logistics preserves the efficacy and safety of temperature-sensitive medicinal products by setting binding quality and monitoring requirements for every stage of the distribution pathway – from manufacturer through intermediate warehouses to pharmacy.

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Last updated: 24 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/good-distribution-practice

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Definition & Explanation

Good Distribution Practice (GDP) for cold chain logistics preserves the efficacy and safety of temperature-sensitive medicinal products by setting binding quality and monitoring requirements for every stage of the distribution pathway – from manufacturer through intermediate warehouses to pharmacy. Freight forwarders, warehouse operators, and manufacturers must maintain documented standard operating procedures (SOPs), keep uninterrupted temperature records, and subject their processes to regular internal and external audits. GDP governs distribution and is distinct from Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), which applies to production. In the EU, requirements follow the EMA's GDP guidelines; other markets operate under comparable but sometimes divergent frameworks. Temperature data loggers, qualified transport containers, and complete handover records are the practical cornerstones of GDP compliance.

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Recommended format: Source: Freight Academy – Good Distribution Practice Cold Chain (https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/good-distribution-practice-cold-chain), accessed 2026-10-27
APA style: Freight Academy Editorial Team. (2025). Good Distribution Practice Cold Chain. Freight Academy. https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/good-distribution-practice-cold-chain
BibTeX: @misc{gooddistributionpractice2025, title = {Good Distribution Practice Cold Chain}, author = {{Freight Academy Editorial Team}}, year = {2025}, url = {https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/good-distribution-practice-cold-chain}, note = {Freight Academy, accessed 2026-10-27} }

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