A Guide to Refrigerated Logistics

Refrigerated logistics means following various regulations and incorporating best practices to ensure the proper temperatures and product integrity are both well-maintained. Prime Fresh Handling has experts to share more information about our refrigerated freight services

This form of logistics is used across many different industries. It involves the movement of products that need to be transported in temperature-controlled environments to keep them safe and in good condition. This is a must for any manufacturing or retail companies that keep perishable goods in stock and on their shelves and can include industries such as:

 

  • – Plant growers
  • – Floriculture
  • – Electronics
  • – Pharmaceutical
  • – Chemical and engineering equipment
  • – Fine art and antiques
  • – Personal care products
  • – Tobacco
  • – Restaurants and food distributors

 

Refrigerated Freight Services

In refrigerated logistics, there are many regulations and laws that must be followed. These are routinely set by the Global Chain Alliance (GCCA) and the International Road Transport Union (IRU). Both organizations offer best practices and guidelines for cold storage logistics companies, freight forwarders, and transport providers that can be used to enhance their services. Some of these best practices include:

 

  • – Trailer maintenance and checks
  • – Truck sanitation and cleaning methods
  • – Driver education
  • – Vehicle storage
  • – Food safety
  • – Temperature deviations
  • – Corrective actions
  • – Segregation of goods
  • – Safe loading methods
  • – Use of multi-temperature vehicles
  • – Effective airflow
  • – Appropriate monitoring
  • – Pre-departure protocols
  • – En route compliance
  • – Arrival procedures

 

For manufacturers, producers, and retailers, properly refrigerated transportation is an integral aspect that can help overcome various potential barriers that may come up. Logistics firms and freight forwarders need to consider the practical and legal matters of shipping. Each product transported should be kept at specific temperatures and in certain conditions, and refrigerated logistics is used to keep the shipments in those specific conditions.

Items like food, pharmaceuticals, and tobacco have very strict import and export regulations. When they are transported, companies need to manage these requirements and any related documentation. This includes the practical implications of transportation and shipping at appropriate temperatures. 

Many companies use refrigerated trucks, as they are cost-effective options for climate-sensitive goods. They are also a quick and safe way to transport perishables, plus there is a large volume of goods that trucks can move. 

 

Other Forms of Refrigerated Transportation

While ground transportation is one of the most common, there are other forms of transportation available, including:

 

  • – Ships and boats
  • – Airplanes
  • – Railway cars and containers

 

All of these transportation methods must meet the requirements of refrigerated logistics by utilizing refrigerated units and climate-controlled containers for temperature-sensitive products.

If the perishables need to travel a great distance, then ships and boats are often used for the journey. This is another cost-effective option, though it is not the fastest. However, by using temperature-controlled sea freight, cold storage logistics companies are able to maintain the goods at the required temperatures they need to be at. 

Air travel can provide some of the fastest transportation, though this is usually the most expensive option. It is best used for express shipments and high-value goods. Climate-controlled air transportation can be a huge part of refrigerated logistics.

Another mode available, rail transportation, offers viable cold-chain transportation. The train cars have refrigeration built-in to them, and there are dedicated freight services that offer another high-speed mode of transportation. 

 

Contact Prime Fresh Handling Today!

If you have any additional questions about refrigerated logistics, cold chain management, or our other services, contact us today! You can also check out our blog to learn more about Prime Fresh Handling. 

 

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