Reefer trucking is critical for transporting temperature-sensitive products safely. While many people associate reefer units with food, they also transport sensitive electronic equipment, medical supplies, and other perishable goods. Proper maintenance of a reefer unit is crucial to delivering undamaged products, ensuring customer satisfaction, and upholding the integrity of the supply chain.
The Essential Guide to Reefer Trucking
Carrying refrigerated cargo comes with unique challenges. If the trailer’s temperature fluctuates beyond safe limits, entire loads can be ruined or become hazardous. For instance, bacteria can thrive on perishable items if the temperature exceeds 45°F, posing severe health risks. Therefore, it’s essential to follow specific do’s and don’ts to mitigate these risks and ensure safe delivery.
Do’s
- Wash Out Your Reefer After Each Load
- Thoroughly clean the trailer after every load, especially those carrying meat, to prevent cross-contamination. Blood and other residues can pose serious contamination risks for subsequent loads. Many warehouses provide hoses for washing out trailers, so take advantage of these facilities.
- Ask the Shipper About Temperature Requirements
- Always confirm the exact temperature settings required for the load from the shipper. Variations as small as one degree can spoil an entire shipment, especially for sensitive products.
- Arrive with a Full Fuel Tank
- Ensure your reefer has a full fuel tank before picking up a load. Some shippers may refuse to load your trailer if you have less than ¾ of a tank, as running out of fuel during transit could jeopardize the cargo.
- Pulp Your Load During Loading
- Regularly check the temperature of the cargo during loading. Monitoring the temperature before, during, and after loading ensures it remains consistent and helps prevent spoilage.
- Observe the Loading Process
- Keep an eye on the quality and condition of the load as it’s being packed. Document any abnormalities on the bill of lading to protect yourself from liability. Ensuring that the load is of high quality when it leaves the shipper helps maintain its condition upon arrival.
- Defrost Regularly
- Defrost the reefer several times a day to prevent moisture build-up, which can damage sensitive products and lead to significant financial losses. Regular defrosting maintains optimal operating conditions and helps ensure the cargo remains in good condition.
Don’ts
- Avoid Using Blowers to Clean the Reefer
- Do not use leaf blowers or other devices to clean out the reefer. These can scatter sharp debris, such as nails or wood shards, potentially causing accidents or damage to subsequent loads.
- Don’t Rely Solely on Temperature Gauges
- Supplement the temperature gauge with regular air temperature checks using a thermometer. This practice ensures the temperature remains within the desired range throughout transit, preventing spoilage.
- Avoid Start/Stop Cycles with Sensitive Loads
- For sensitive products like flowers and produce, avoid using start/stop cycles. The sudden blasts of cold air from the unit restarting can damage these products. Keep the cooling unit running continuously to maintain a stable temperature.
- Never Let the Reefer Run Out of Fuel
- Reefer units typically run on diesel generators. Allowing the reefer to run out of fuel can result in the loss of cooling, leading to significant financial losses and ruined cargo. Always ensure the reefer has sufficient fuel for the entire journey.
- Protect Against Ethylene Gas Damage
- Keep ethylene-sensitive items, such as green vegetables and floral products, away from fruits that emit ethylene gas. Ethylene can cause premature ripening and spoilage. Properly segregating these items within the reefer can prevent ethylene damage and preserve the quality of the cargo.
Bottom Line
By adhering to these guidelines, reefer trucking professionals can effectively maintain the integrity of temperature-sensitive cargo and ensure its safe delivery. With continuous advancements in logistics and the critical nature of various industries, mastering the art of reefer trucking is essential. It’s not just about keeping things cool—it’s about delivering trust and quality with every haul. As the demand for temperature-controlled transportation grows, staying informed and vigilant will help you meet the challenges and ensure success in the reefer trucking industry.
Additional Trucking Resources:
- How long does it take to get a DOT number?
- Severity weighting is explained in-depth here
