Key considerations when you need your goods to be kept cool (or hot)
For certain product types, it is important, even essential for products to be transported within temperature-controlled environments. For road haulage in the UK, the number of hauliers that have this equipment and can provide this service is significantly reduced vs. those that can provide ambient temperature transport. However, within the Logisto Directory, we have scoured the country to ensure we provide the latest information for suppliers that can provide this service. But, before you search for the relevant suppliers, let us look at the key requirements of the service and detail any watchouts that you should consider.
Let’s start with the basics – what is temperature-controlled road freight and what is it used for?
Simply put, temperature-controlled transport is moving any products that require technology to maintain the temperature of the vehicle to a required level. This can vary by product but the standard ranges for transport are:
- hygienic (controlled ambient) – often in the +5°C to +15°C
- chilled to +2°C
- frozen to -25°C
- heated to +25°C
Though each company will vary (think transporting chocolate vs. vegetables), the above give you an idea of the ranges of temperature that you might experience and that are offered by the haulier network.
What products need temperature control?
There are many products that need to be maintained to a certain temperature and this really does vary significantly by product. From fruit to vegetables, ice-cream to milk, flowers to chocolate, pharmaceuticals to meat, there are many items that need transporting with a little care and attention when it comes to temperature-controlled transport (amongst other things!).
What are the important considerations?
Well, first and foremost, the most important consideration is ensuring that your products will arrive in the condition you require (both from a consumer and legal perspective!). Whether it is temperature controlled or ambient haulage, you should always consider the key requirements of safe, clean, secure vehicles. With temperature controlled, there are a few additional considerations. If you need to be able to demonstrate the controlled environment that the product is transported, then you need a reputable haulier that will ensure that the trailer is equipped with temperature monitoring equipment as well as guaranteeing the logging and maintenance of the records.
We recommend that, as with all potential suppliers, that you do your due diligence and that you ask any questions to alleviate any concerns. If you don’t get an answer that allays your fears then either ask another supplier (or ask us!) to get clarification.
If you have any questions about temperature-controlled transport, or any other logistical concerns, then please do not hesitate to reach out to the Logisto team, who will be ready to use their extensive experience to help you with your query.
As always, the LOGISTO Directory provides a detailed list of excellent suppliers that are experts at handling temperature-controlled product. Please feel free to browse the directory to help find suppliers that can assist with your requirements and guarantee the safe transportation of your valued product!
Thank you
The LOGISTO Team