Companies producing goods that need consistent refrigeration require a logistics provider with keen attention to detail and superior coordination to ensure the goods meet their final destination at the right temperature. That’s why it’s so important to choose a reliable, efficient and resourceful cold chain logistics company.
What Is Cold Chain Logistics?
Cold chain logistics is the management and transport of temperature-controlled goods. Food is often the first thing that comes to mind, but products like pharmaceuticals, flowers and cosmetics also require careful temperature control. These goods must maintain a stable temperature from dock to dock to ensure their quality and safety.
Tips for Selecting a Cold Chain Logistics Company You Can Trust
The cold chain logistics company you choose should have processes, technology and systems in place to reliably handle temperature-critical goods. When vetting companies, look for these features:
Refrigeration Technology at Every Step
The company you choose should have a range of temperature controls at every point of the transportation process, from the cold warehouse to the dock to the refrigerated truck. Even slight fluctuations in temperature can be detrimental, so logistics companies that have cold warehousing options in a range of temperatures, chilled docks and reefers that can handle cargo at various temperatures are best positioned to deliver your products safely.
Safety Controls
Power outages can happen – your cold chain logistics company should have measures in place to protect your temperature-controlled goods. At Classic, we lock down freezer doors during short-term outages to contain the existing temperature. For a long-term outage, we bring in industrial generators to power the units until power is restored.
Temperature Checks and Transparency
Look for cold chain logistics providers that can show you the real-time temperature of your goods, where your shipment is and when it’s expected to be delivered. This visibility lowers risk and provides assurance throughout the shipping process. We offer real-time location and temperature checks via our satellite-equipped trucks at Classic Carriers.
Forecasting
Find a logistics provider that is monitoring the industry, forecasting and planning ahead for the future to ensure they can handle fluctuating supply and demand. At Classic Carriers, we opened a new climate-controlled warehouse in Greenville, Ohio, that quadruples the freezer-capacity space we previously had to accommodate growing needs in the industry. Our new space supports the storage of temperature-sensitive commercial products, products for the aerospace industry, medical supplies and more.
All-in-One Cold Chain Solution
Look for a company that offers a one-stop-shop of cold chain logistics and transportation capabilities for maximum ease and efficiency. At Classic, our complete suite of transportation capabilities includes cold storage carrier services, cold storage warehousing and third-party logistics management.
Experience
Make sure the company you choose has a solid track record of warehousing, logistics and trucking experience. As the saying goes, if the rate seems too good to be true, it probably is – you’ll end up paying more in the long run for spoiled shipments. With 35+ years in the industry, we’re committed to process transparency, exceptional communication and consistent innovation to meet our customers’ needs.
A Cold Chain Logistics Company You Can Count On
Cold chain logistics doesn’t have to be stressful. We handle temperature-controlled goods with care at every step, keeping you informed about the status of your products so you always know what’s going on.
To reserve a space in our cold storage warehouse or book a refrigerated load, contact us for a quote.
This blog was originally published in 2021. It was updated in March 2024.