Temperature-sensitive goods often have strict shipment requirements. Their delivery timelines are habitually short, and they need strict adherence to the temperature requirements. That’s why air freight is the most popular option for transporting such goods. However, several trucking companies also offer refrigerated reefers for sale or rent to help you deliver your goods in the proper condition and shape. Here are some tips to help you.
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What is Temperature-Sensitive Freight Shipping?
Temperature-sensitive freight shipping is the transportation of goods that are responsive to changes in the climate. These can include fresh farm products, pharmaceutical goods, or any other item that can easily change the form, get damaged, or become ineffective due to climatic conditions.
Due to their sensitivity, these goods require special handling before, during, and after shipment. Failure to maintain the acceptable temperature ranges may compromise the value of the products or increase chances of rejection at the delivery.
Tips To Keep Temperature-Sensitive Freight Shipping Safe
Temperature-sensitive freight shipping can be challenging due to the strict requirements. However, following the correct shipment procedure may make the process a lot easier. Here are some tips to help you.
Select the Right Provider
Picking the right logistics provider is one of the essential steps in your shipment journey. How far you go with your vetting depends on the needs your shipment requires. You need to ensure that the provider understands the unique demands of your process and is willing to meet the specifications.
To be sure, you may need to ask about their experience, temperature monitoring abilities, security protocols, equipment testing procedures, and if they’re able to deliver the goods on time. That’ll help you determine if their service works for your product’s demands, especially if you’re dealing in highly regulated industries like healthcare or life sciences.
Mention Your Requirements
After choosing the right provider, be clear about the particular demands of your shipment. Discus about acceptable temperature ranges, the special handling requirements, and what can cause the customer to reject the product.
Similarly, you need to discuss your shipment frequency in case you’ll need a recurring service. That’s because most companies have fewer refrigerated trucks in their fleets and may not be available for short notice shipment requirements.
Track the Shipment and Get Ready For Emergencies
Most temperature-sensitive freights have strict timelines, and delays in the delivery process may compromise the quality of your goods. As a result, you need to trace the flow of your transit from dock to dock. That’ll help you combat any unexpected occurrences, avoid surprises, and give you peace of mind.
Similarly, you need to be prepared in case any emergency occurs. According to experts at Hale Trailer, you need to conduct regular maintenance for your reefer to avoid breakdowns. Likewise, you should ensure your carrier conducts routine inspections before and after your shipment. Also, discuss with your carrier about their plan on combating any delays.
Arrange For Loading and Unloading
While your carrier is liable for the safety of your freight during transit, you also need to take special precautions during loading and unloading. For instance, you may need to prepare a temperature-regulated space at the dock to keep the conditions safe. Similarly, you need to adhere to loading guidelines to boost airflow and ascertain that goods arrive at acceptable temperatures during delivery.
Shipping temperature-sensitive freight calls for strict adherence to several conditions and requirements. As a result, you need to understand all the specific demands for safe delivery and avoid a product failing at the delivery.