At Prime Fresh Handling, our philosophy is that all products should be as fresh as local. When managed by our team, they are. That’s because we use industry-leading technology, like cool chain management and climate-controlled storage, to ensure just that. By handling produce correctly and with the proper technology, perishable products shipped by Prime Fresh have a long shelf life and are of the highest quality.Â
We offer a wide range of shipping and logistics solutions for shipping fresh produce and perishables, including:
- Expedited fresh fruit and vegetable shipping services
- A variety of shipping and handling options, such as by land, air, or sea
Prime Fresh Handling has PrimusGFS certification, as well as California Certified Organic Farmers certification. Our certifications are another reason why we are one of the most trustworthy companies in the industry.Â
Shipping Fresh Produce
Prime Fresh offers a regionally focused yet global network of transportation channels for all types of mixed produce. With our expertise and access to leading technology, we can keep our clients’ produce safe, fresh, and delicious! Our hub in Los Angeles also allows us quick access to regional fruits like avocado, the California state fruit.
When shipping mixed produce, our team has learned and perfected dealing with some of the most important key points:
- Temperature
- Packing
- Planning
Produce Temperature Guidelines
The main goal is to ensure that the mixed produce stays at a safe temperature throughout the process. Different produce will need to be kept at certain temperatures during transportation. Â
| Recommended Temp. Range and Relative Humidity Percentage | Vegetables | Fruit |
| 32-36 F / 90%-98% | Broccoli, Cabbage, Kale Leeks, Lettuce, Mustard Greens, Peas, and Turnip Greens | Blackberries, Blueberries, Cantaloupes, Cut Fruits, Figs, Peaches, Persimmons, Quinces, Raspberries, and Strawberries |
| 45-50 F / 85%-95%Â | Basil, Beans, Southern Peas, Cucumbers, Eggplants, Okra, Peppers, Summer Squash, and Tomatillos | Citrus, Passion Fruit, and Watermelons |
| 55-65 F / 85%-95% | Pumpkins, Winter Squash, Sweet Potatoes, and Tomatoes (ripe, partially ripe, and mature green) | Honeydew |
This table is a quick idea of which types of produce need to be kept at certain temperatures and humidity percentages. Prime Fresh Handling also works with a wide range of mixed produce, including bananas, other citrus fruits, fresh herbs, mangoes, and more! From start to finish, they each will be temperature controlled.
PackagingÂ
Having the necessary produce shipping boxes is an integral factor in this process. The packages are carefully planned out to be lined and handled correctly to maintain the safety, quality, and temperature of the mixed produce inside. Â
Inside the produce shipping boxes, there should be waterproof lining and absorbent padding. Any extra space inside the box should also be filled with more padding or packing peanuts to reduce movement and possible damage to the produce. Soft foam inserts can also be used for fruits and vegetables that are more fragile. A cooler will keep mixed produce at its proper temperature throughout transportation. If there is different produce in the cooler, separate it into plastic bags or other sealed containers.Â
The shipping box should be brand new, sturdy, and corrugated to keep the produce safe inside. Properly labeling the boxes will ensure that they are handled accordingly.Â
Planning
At our perishable shipping company, we always plan ahead. We carefully arrange shipments to ensure they are sent out on time and tracked throughout the process. From the moment they enter our care to the moment they reach their final destinations, our team will keep a watchful eye on each shipment and make any adjustments accordingly, if necessary.Â
Contact Prime Fresh Handling Today!
Prime Fresh Handling offers expert shipping and handling solutions for mixed produce and many other industries, including seafood, flowers and plants, and meat and poultry. Our mission is to provide our clients with safe, fresh, and delicious produce from every shipment through our team. Contact Prime Fresh Handling today to learn more about our services and other shipping solutions.
