Refrigerated trucking is the delivery of cargo sensitive to temperatures above a certain level. That means these products are transported refrigerated to keep them fresh or, in the case of medicines, usable. If you’re wondering about refrigerated trucking, here’s what you need to know about the process, the best industry practices, and more.
Fix the Insulation
Insulation is one of the first things that need to be done. The truck must be insulated to ensure that no cold air gets out. That helps maintain the temperature inside the truck. That’s why metal, steel, plastic, and other non-porous materials are commonly used inside the cargo area. The materials enhance the truck’s insulation. This also makes it easier on the refrigerator, so it doesn’t have to work twice as hard. With excellent insulation in place, your refrigerator saves energy, and you reduce the unit’s overall operating costs while in transit.
Consider the Location
The best refrigerated trucking companies know that the location of the refrigeration unit is crucial. It should either be behind the driver’s cabin or on top of the unit. For companies with semi-trailers, the refrigerator is usually behind the cab. While you may encounter a few exceptions, this is the usual layout you can expect from trucking companies. If you’re looking to hire refrigerated trucking services for your business, knowing what to expect can help you determine which trucking companies are worth your while. That also means you can tell which trucking services aren’t performing at their best and which ones are doing it right.
Ask About the Items They Handle
Before you hire a refrigerated trucking service, find out what they usually handle. Do they have extensive experience handling the delivery of medication, food, or other temperature-sensitive products that are part of your inventory? Has the company worked with another firm in your field or industry? Their experience can be an advantage, as they will know the level and quality of customer service you expect. That also means they know how it works. They’ll be more efficient at the task because they’ve already done this plenty of times before.
Talk About the Costs
Refrigerated trucking costs more than traditional trucking expenses. That’s because of the special equipment and the added expenses of keeping the equipment in excellent working condition. That way, it will always be ready for the next delivery. If you are hiring refrigerated trucking services, calculate your budget. Typically, there are fewer trucking services that offer refrigeration units. That’s another reason why the service costs more. More demand and a small supply of refrigerated trucking companies result in higher rates.
Read Up on the Best Practices
What are the industry’s best practices for refrigerated trucking services? Before you hire a freight company, ask a few questions. Does the company pre-cool its trailers? Do they follow unloading procedures? Do they limit or maintain heat? Asking these questions can help you get a sense of how they take care of their trucks and if they’re the right service provider for your needs.
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