Definitions in Warehousing: Temperature Controlled vs. Temperature Conditioned

There are a multitude of definitions and misconceptions surrounding what qualifies as or is considered “temperature controlled” warehousing. Depending on your goods, you may need some degree of temperature control at the facility you are storing your freight at. In this article we are going to discuss the key differences between temperature conditioned, temperature controlled, and cold/freezer storage and which space is likely the best fit for you.

What is Temperature Controlled Warehousing?

By some definitions, ambient temperature conditioned space falls under this category where temperatures are maintained around +/- 65° F. However, truly temperature-controlled warehouse space is more closely associated with cold storage facilities where refrigeration and freezer space is available allowing for the storage of perishable items from dairy and produce items, to frozen foods and temperature sensitive pharmaceuticals. Since definitions of temperature controlled space can vary from provider to provider, it is important to inquire as to the temperature capabilities based on the needs of your product or customer.

What is the difference between Temperature Controlled and Temperature Conditioned Space?

Temperature conditioned space is more widely available and generally has more "wiggle" room for temperature requirements, generally +/- 65° F meets this definition. temperature conditioned space will keep your product from freezing if your storage provider is in a place subject to harsh winters and it will also keep your product from getting too hot in places where extreme heat is a factor. You may not need temperature controlled storage if your product is not perishable, but you may want to consider a facility with temperature conditioned space available depending on where geographically you are seeking warehousing and what types of product or materials you are storing.

Where does Cold/Freezer Storage fit into all this?

Temperature controlled warehousing can apply to cold/freezer storage as mentioned above. However, cold storage facilities are special in their own right. Some offer refrigerated space maintaining temps around 32° F, while others will offer freezer storage where temps can get significantly colder. Some specialty freezer space can get down into the -130° F range for specific pharmaceuticals. ?These facilities are specially outfitted with refrigeration units and insulation to maintain icy cool temperatures and have a higher operating cost to maintain generally incurring an additional cost to utilize.

Which space is best for you?

The simplest answer to this question is to contact a reputable warehousing provider and let them know what kind of product you are storing and see what they recommend. If you aren't storing perishable goods, you likely wont need Cold or Freezer storage, you may not even need temperature conditioned space if you aren't storing temperature sensitive goods or materials at all. There is usually an additional cost associated with temperature controlled space, so if you do not need it for your product, then why incur the additional cost?