Cold chain logistics is the technology and process that allows for the safe transport of temperature-sensitive goods and products along the supply chain. It relies heavily on science to evaluate and accommodate for the link between temperature and perishability.
Any product known to be or labeled “perishable” will likely need cold chain management. This could include foods like meat and seafood, produce, medical supplies and pharmaceuticals.
Moving freight that requires temperature control involves multiple moving parts to work seamlessly. The normal process of moving freight is simple – plan the route, load the container, move the product, and deliver to the customer. When products require temperature controls like reefer or frozen shipments, each phase of shipping involves multiple additional steps.
Here are a few of the ways that the cold supply chain is different.
• Planning: When a cold storage shipment is planned, the shipper and carrier must work together to ensure they have the right equipment to transport the goods to its destination. The biggest hurdles exist with international shipping, where in most cases, the products being shipped will require movement to different containers. Carriers must also ensure their shipments comply with food safety standards, to reduce the growth of bacteria, spoilage, and ensure the product is delivered on time.
• Loading: Most LTL carriers maintain cold-storage depots that permit them to keep products within their ‘danger-zone’ of temperature tolerance. Once the shipment is ready for movement, carriers must work quickly to load cargo onto temperature-controlled containers.
• Movement of Freight: The cold supply chain needs to move efficiently. While today’s cargo containers are built better than ever, it’s still a reality that the longer cold storage products are on the road, the more opportunity for damage to the freight exists. Shippers and carriers also need to work closely with the recipient to ensure they are available for deliveries to reduce shipping delays.