Temperature plays an important role in the shipment of perishable goods. This is why people who need transportation services for their perishable goods always make sure the freight delivery provider they are using has the necessary equipment to transport their goods under the right temperature.
In this article, we’re going to talk about the role temperature plays in freight delivery, as well as the factors to consider when shipping items that require a certain temperature.
But before we do that, we’re going to look at the definition of temperature-controlled shipping.
What is Temperature Control?
Temperature-controlled shipping is the movement of goods that must remain at a certain temperature from the time it leaves a facility and gets to their final destination. Some of the items that fall into this category include perishable foods, fresh produce, and some life-saving medications with high demand for refrigeration.
When perishable foods are exposed to extreme temperatures, they can turn bad and become unfit for consumption. Likewise, medications can be rendered useless when there are even just a few temperature changes, either below or above problems.
Limitations Of Temperature Controlled Shipping
Despite the numerous advantages of temperature-controlled shipping, it has its limitations. In temperature-controlled shipping, the number of goods that can be transported at a certain time is limited compared to regular shipping. This is because the trucks used in this type of shipping are filled with temperature control equipment and extra layers of insulation which reduces the amount of space for goods.
Types Of Containers Used in Temperature controlled Shipping
Refrigerated Warehouses And Trailers
Refrigerated warehousing and shipping is the most suitable option for goods that need temperature control. Businesses that move these types of goods make sure only to hire reliable logistics partners who offer detailed information on temperature-control practices.
Dry Ice
Dry ice is widely accepted because it’s non-toxic. Most importantly, it retains its coldness for a long period. However, dry ice has its disadvantages. When it accidentally touches the skin, it can cause burns. In a small and unventilated room, the use of dry ice can also cause asphyxiation. Regardless, Dry ice remains a suitable refrigerated shipping method. It just needs to be used carefully.
Refrigerant Gel Packs
These Reusable gel packs are also called phase-change materials. As their names imply, they have a gel capable of freezing, melting, and being frozen repeatedly. Most refrigerant gel packs are either in 32-ounce, 16-ounce, or 48-ounce sizes. These gel packs are used with Air Sea Containers. They’re effective in offering extra cooling to goods while they’re being moved. Their biodegradable and recyclable materials make them easy on the environment. Moreso, using them doesn’t come with the risk of contamination.
Styrofoam Coolers
These coolers have been around for a long time, yet they offer quality value in terms of preserving frozen goods. Since styrofoam is a good insulator, this makes it a great option for refrigerated shipping when used with dry ice or refrigerant gel packs.
Specimen Kits
Goods like biological specimens require a more intensive approach when it comes to shipping them. When moving goods like these, specimen shipping kits are needed. These kits help to keep the specimens at the right temperature all through the shipping process.
Blankets and Drum Heaters
In most cases, temperature-controlled shipping methods are focused on ensuring cargo remains refrigerated. Still, it’s also essential to ensure the temperature doesn’t freeze or fall too much. Drum heaters are good for maintaining cargo temperatures in cold weather.
Factors To Consider When Shipping Frozen Food
Packaging
Packaging is an essential criterion for transporting frozen food through a ship because it helps to keep it within the required temperature for as long as the shipping lasts. If you don’t pay great attention to packaging, your goods will end up rotten by the time they arrive. The importance of using insulated packaging for frozen foods cannot be underestimated. You must also ensure the insulated package uses advanced thermal materials to inhibit heat transfer.
Labeling
As important as it is to package appropriately, you also need to ensure they’re labeled correctly. Some of the commonly used labels for frozen food items include “semi-perishable,” “perishable,” or “keep refrigerated.” It’s also advisable to put notes containing storage requirements. It aids shipment companies in performing their safety checks so there won’t be any mistakes.
In conclusion, the safety of your goods, especially the frozen ones, greatly depends on ensuring they get the required amount of temperature during their transportation. Either on water or road, they need to be protected against adverse weather conditions. Additionally, they need to be packaged with the right insulation. So whenever you’re choosing a shipment or logistics company, make sure they have a high level of experience in transporting perishable goods.