Cold Chain: From Farm to Cold Storage

Before temperature-sensitive goods can be shipped, they must be prepared for transport. Most importantly, pre-cooling to the desired temperature must be done before long-distance shipping. As every product has different optimal temperature zones, humidity and air composition when stored, the transport set-up of reefer shipments is individual.

The term "cold chain logistics" can be a misnomer at times. Depending on the type of product, the temperature requirements to store and transport it will vary. Not every product has to be kept at low or sub-zero temperatures, some products may need storage and transport at ambient temperatures to preserve texture and quality. This is true, especially during harsh winters in certain regions.

Moving a shipment across the supply chain without suffering any cold chain break requires the establishment of a comprehensive logistical process. This process concerns several phases ranging from the preparation of the shipments to the final verification of the integrity of the shipment at the delivery point.

The journey of temperature-sensitive goods starts with the producer. Whether farmer or manufacturer, they must be packaged correctly to maintain the quality of sensitive cargo during shipment. Proper packaging helps minimise the risk of product contamination and ensures energy-efficient product storage along the cold chain.

Immediately after post-production, goods must store adequately until they are dispatched to a distribution point. These storages must hold goods in temperature-controlled conditions protected from temperature fluctuations and power outages. Such outages can result in damage or spoiled goods. Therefore, most temperature-controlled warehouses have the backup of an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) to meet such unforeseen dangers. Infrared thermometers or other sensors help to record the temperature.

If manufacturers of temperature-sensitive products don’t have the storage equipment needed to keep their products cold, they’ll have to outsource their cold chain operations to a partner who can provide the necessary equipment. Some common types of cold storage equipment and facilities include refrigerated containers, cold rooms, chillers, cold boxes, and also vaccine carriers.

When preparing products for a refrigerated shipment, consider the following:

• Cargo should be pre-cooled to the required temperature before being moved into the reefer container.
• Additional setting requirements such as dehumidification control, fresh air ventilation and controlled/modified atmosphere, if necessary.
• Maximum shelf life and transport time to plan ahead.
• Required documentation, legal restrictions and other rules and regulations for customs and legal authorities.
• Volume and weight of the goods for documentation and respecting safety limits.
• General stowage instructions.
• Optimum packaging material and cartons for perishable cargo.

If you want to learn more about the other parts of the cold chain, check out the lengthy article "Cold Chain and Reefer Management" (also available as a free downloadable eBook)