Perishable items are those that deteriorate when subjected to temperature changes. They can include an array of items, mostly food items such as fruit, meat, dairy, and fish. They may also include other products such as chemicals, medications, flowers and even artwork.
Maintaining a temperature controlled environment throughout the transport process is vital to preserving these items. Temperature controlled trailers are a good way to ensure safe transport by road. Alternatively, the shipper can make use of temperature controlled containers, and have them transported on flatbed trailers. Here are some tips on how to ensure proper transport and delivery of such sensitive merchandise.
Know The Temperature Range
Different products must be maintained at different temperature ranges to ensure the product does not deteriorate. There is a designated acceptable temperature range and humidity that should be ascertained right from the start. This allows for correct monitoring, and the right choice of temperature controlled transport. Since there may be some points of handover, the delivery supply chain needs to understand the acceptable margin of error.
Logistics Planning
If the shipment is traveling a long way, it is important to ensure that refrigerated facilities are available at every stage. While you may have made arrangements for temperature controlled trailers, what about the warehouses along the way? Does the final storage facility have the right capacity and specifications for refrigeration? Do they have the right equipment to properly offload the shipment without undue exposure to temperature differences? You need to consider the entire route the consignment will travel and ensure this special need is catered to.
Choose an Experienced Shipper
When it comes to such specialized transport, it is advisable to avoid risking your consignment on an inexperienced shipper. There are many moving parts to this process, and you need a provider that understands how to preserve your items until they arrive at their destination. Even a minor mistake can destroy the value of the cargo.
An experienced shipper will ensure their vehicles are well-maintained and understand all the features. The last thing you need is someone choosing energy-saving modes that alter the temperature in the storage area. Besides the safety of your shipment, an experienced provider will likely give you a fair rate based on prior jobs.