Refrigerated transport is a very significant element of international trade. Without the possibility of refrigerated transport, the exchange of goods in international trade would not be possible.
What is Refrigerated Transport?
Refrigerated transport is a specialized form of road transport, whether in the context of domestic transport or international transport, aimed at transporting goods that require controlled temperature conditions. In this case, we mainly refer to food products such as meat, fish, fruits, and vegetables, as well as pharmaceutical, chemical, and other materials that may spoil if not stored and transported under the proper conditions.
The technical aspect of this type of transport is extremely advanced. Specially designed refrigerated vehicles are used, which are capable of maintaining a constant, low temperature set by the operator. Inside these vehicles, advanced cooling systems are installed that not only maintain low temperatures but also control humidity levels and ensure proper air circulation. These parameters are essential for preserving the quality of the transported products.
What Vehicles are Used in Organizing Refrigerated Transport?
The primary mode of transport for goods requiring temperature control is provided by vehicles specially adapted for refrigerated transport. These units are equipped with refrigeration units that maintain the appropriate temperature (usually below 0 degrees Celsius). They are ideal for transporting frozen products over long distances. Refrigerated vehicles can be divided into several categories:
- Doppelstock - These vehicles are characterized by movable floors that allow for dual-level loading of cargo. They are used in food transport operations, where products are stored on multiple levels.
- Refrigerators with Compartments – These allow for maintaining different temperature and humidity conditions within a single trailer. Their use is particularly cost-effective when different elements of the transported cargo require varying temperatures.
- Refrigerated Trailers with Hooks – These are equipped with internal hooks that facilitate the transport of meat on hooks, such as pork bellies. The hooks are mounted on special rails that stabilize and secure the cargo against movement.
- Isotherms – These vehicles feature an insulated cargo compartment, often made of styrofoam, and are excellent for protecting the load from adverse weather conditions and contaminants such as dust and dirt. Isotherms are suitable for transporting dairy products, as well as fruits picked straight from the fields.
- Reefer Containers – This is another type of vehicle where the cooling of the cargo is achieved through various methods. Examples of cooling methods for cargo transported in a reefer include:
- natural ice with or without the addition of salt
- dry ice
- eutectic plates, which function by cooling the plate to a low temperature and transporting it alongside a pallet or food container
There are also specialized vehicles with heating capabilities. An example of such a vehicle is a refrigerated tank truck that can be heated from the inside, which is crucial for certain types of cargo.
The specialists at Omida VLS will help you select the most appropriate mode of transport for your specific case, taking into account the type of cargo, distance, and other specific requirements.
How Does Refrigerated Transport Work?
The process of refrigerated transport is a complex, multi-stage endeavor that begins even before the cargo is loaded onto the vehicle. Here are the successive stages of this process:
Planning and Coordination
At the outset, the type of transport and route are planned. At this stage, it is crucial to select the appropriate refrigerated vehicle and define the conditions—such as temperature and humidity—that must be maintained during transport. Freight forwarders, often using advanced management systems, choose the optimal means and methods of transport.
Cargo Preparation
Before loading, the cargo is often prepared in specialized refrigerated warehouses. The products are pre-cooled to the required temperature and properly packaged to minimize the impact of external conditions and the risk of contamination.
Loading
The cargo is loaded into the pre-prepared and inspected refrigerated vehicle. Proper securing of the load is essential to prevent the cargo from shifting during transit.
Monitoring and control
After loading and securing, the transport phase begins. The refrigeration systems are activated and set to the appropriate levels. Advanced real-time monitoring systems track the conditions inside the cargo compartment, triggering alarms if any deviations from the set parameters occur.
Transit
During transit, the driver and fleet management systems continuously monitor the condition of the vehicle and the cargo. For longer routes, stops may be scheduled to check the conditions of both the load and the vehicle.
Unloading and delivery
Upon arrival, the unloading phase takes place. This phase is also closely monitored to ensure that the refrigerated conditions were maintained throughout the transport.
Documentation and Archiving
After the completion of transport, all data is archived. This includes information about the route, transport times, maintained conditions, and any incidents. Such data is often required by various regulations and quality standards.
__Additionally, modern IT solutions in refrigerated transport constitute a key element of our approach. __
At Omida VLS, we utilize real-time temperature monitoring systems based on advanced artificial intelligence technology, which enable continuous tracking of conditions inside the vehicle. As a result, even during transit, we are able to immediately respond to any deviations from the set parameters, ensuring that the transported products—ranging from fresh food to pharmaceuticals—remain in optimal condition.
Furthermore, our cold chain management system guarantees full support at every stage of transport. A dedicated customer service manager, express refrigerated deliveries with dual crews, and precise data analysis enable the efficient coordination of the logistics process, minimizing the risk of delays and losses. The integration of advanced technologies with an individualized approach to customer needs translates into the highest quality and reliability of the services provided.
In our transport company, we possess extensive expertise in managing the entire supply chain. At each stage, selecting the appropriate mode of transport is crucial for success in refrigerated transport.
The Importance of Refrigerated Transport
Well-organized refrigerated transport is crucial for both suppliers and consumers. Its proper execution has a direct impact on the quality of products on store shelves. Even minor irregularities during transit can negatively affect the quality of the cargo, which in turn may pose a risk to consumers' health. Food products transported under improper conditions may spoil and become inedible. It is also worth mentioning that one of the additional advantages of vehicles specially adapted for the refrigerated transport of various products is the built-in thermograph. This device continuously monitors temperature, further ensuring that the products are stored under safe conditions.
Refrigerated Transport for the Food Industry from Omida VLS
Poland is a country that exports many goods beyond its borders. In our company, refrigerated transport is based on the use of isothermal containers, in which refrigerated goods are transported. We assure our clients of the control over temperature, humidity, and the atmosphere within the isothermal container. Refrigerated transport primarily encompasses sea transport, in which we specialize. We tailor every process in refrigerated transport directly to the individual needs of the client, in accordance with the latest requirements.