Temperature-controlled vehicles usually transport perishable goods. Changes in temperature during refrigerated food transport can decrease shelf life. It is paramount to maintain the quality of the refrigerated products. To ensure food safety, fleets of food transport follow the industry standards. Here is how you can ensure the safety of cargo in temperature-controlled vessels.
Pre-Trip Inspection
One way of maintaining optimal food quality is carrying out a pre-trip inspection. Manufacturers need to set requirements for assessment before the trip. These requirements should include clearing past alarm codes. It should also involve dealing with the existing alarms. Drivers need to inspect the trailer for any physical damage. They should also confirm that the fuel is enough for the expected trip.
Install Switches in the Door
The vessel should turn off before the doors are opened to load the cargo. Opening the doors when the container is still running, leads to hot air coming into the trailer. When distributing food with many stops, drivers are likely to forget to turn off the trailer. If that happens repeatedly, there will be an increase in temperature. The trailer will turn off before the doors open when you install switches.
Stimulate Circulation and Airflow
Constant airflow is vital in maintaining appropriate temperatures. Having an air chute will help in circulating cold air to the back. The air will then go back to the front. The entire circulation decreases the chances that the vessel short-cycles. Loading the trailer effectively is also great for improving the airflow.
Learn the Impact Of Off Time in Start/Stop Operations
It is beneficial to fleets if they understand when they need to run in start/stop mode or in continuous mode. That usually depends on the type of cargo in the vessel. When transporting frozen products, these carriers run a stop/start operation. Frozen cargo can handle slight changes in temperature and not get spoilt. Temperature-sensitive products, however, cannot withstand temperature variations.
Achieve Quality Assurance
In the past, drivers would know there is something wrong by getting a flashing light on the side of the truck. However, they would not know the cause of the alarm. That would force them to leave their vehicles to inspect the issue. With new technologies, drivers can get alerted to any potential problems. These warnings are sent directly to their smartphones using Bluetooth systems. These programs send instant notifications to the issues. That way, the professionals can find the solution without disrupting the temperature. Thus, drivers can keep their eyes on the road and increase the uptime.
To learn more about refrigerated transport, reach out a delivery and transport company in your area.