Cold chain logistics play a vital role in the economy and if just a single step goes wrong it can result in the loss of the entire refrigerated load. Companies that rely on cold chain logistics cannot risk costly mistakes.
Cold chain logistics is needed for all temperature-sensitive goods from pharmaceuticals and chemicals to fresh produce, to name only a few. For these goods to be delivered to the customer in a fresh and usable state requires an unbroken chain of temperature-regulated packing, transport, warehousing if needed and final delivery to the end user.
On-screen, this looks fairly straightforward, but the reality is far more complicated. The entire cold chain must be meticulously planned and managed to avoid any temperature fluctuations. In addition, most temperature-sensitive goods are also time-sensitive, so if the transit time is exceeded, the goods are no longer viable - even if temperatures were precisely controlled.
The biggest risk in cold chain logistics is during the transport stage where any number of factors can lead to delays. This is why it is so important to ensure the type of transport used is perfectly suited to the cold chain goods that are being transported.
Specialised vehicles
Effective cold chain logistics relies on specialised commercial vehicles. These range from long-haul refrigeration units to panel vans and even scooters with temperature-controlled storage. The smaller vehicles are often used for the final stage, such as delivering pharmaceuticals or fresh produce to the end user.
The type of vehicles needed all depends on what needs to be transported and the time and distance expected during transit. Specialised units can be built to suit all types of cold chain needs and Eqstra collaborates with clients to determine the best solutions for their needs. Here are some considerations:
Long-haul refrigeration units
- Evaluate how frequently the unit will be opened if it delivers goods to multiple stops. Assess how this will impact the internal temperature of the unit and whether separate compartments are necessary.
Short-distance transit
- Consider the expected loads and the acceptable temperature range during transport. Is full refrigeration required at this stage, or will insulated transport suffice?
Frozen seafood, for example, must remain below a certain temperature and stay frozen at all times. Fish that has defrosted and been frozen again is a health risk and must be disposed of. Your final mile will therefore be a full refrigeration unit, no matter the distance.
Some pharmaceuticals and fresh produce can be transported in insulated containers to keep them cool for final delivery. But this is only an option if deliveries are carefully monitored to ensure goods are delivered within a certain timeframe.
Pharmaceutical logistics
Correct and consistent temperature is especially important when it comes to pharmaceuticals. Many medications, such as vaccines, diabetes medication and thousands of others only remain viable if they’re kept below a certain temperature. If those medications are exposed to higher temperatures they can become ineffective, or even toxic, as an increase in temperature can change the chemical compounds.
In addition, many medications have different temperature needs, which means they can’t all be transported in the same unit. Companies that require different transit temperatures for different products will need vehicle solutions that will make transport as efficient and cost-effective as possible.
On the other hand, some medications are packed into their own temperature-regulated and sealed containers. Depending on the product and transport needs, this could require customised storage within the transit vehicles to safely carry these containers.
Cold chain monitoring
The only way to 100% ensure goods are kept at the correct temperature at all times is through real-time monitoring. With a tailored real-time telematics solution, companies can ensure:
- The transit temperature stays within the allowed parameters.
- Any temperature spikes are immediately flagged so the necessary action can be taken.
- There are no ‘blind spots’ in the transit process where temperatures could have fluctuated.
- That transit doesn’t exceed the amount of time these goods are allowed to be in transit.
- Spot any potential delays or concerns so steps can be taken to ensure goods are not damaged and still delivered within the acceptable time frame.
- Security: many cold chain goods, especially pharmaceuticals are a hijack and theft risk. Real-time monitoring and good communication with drivers can minimise this risk.
Risk reduction
The first step to ensuring a cold chain stays intact during transit is to make sure you are using the correct vehicles, and that those vehicles are always in excellent condition. This dramatically reduces the risk of breakdowns.
A successful cold chain also relies on a solid network in the event of a breakdown or accident. If, for example, a vehicle has to stop due to a damaged tyre you need to know that roadside assistance will respond quickly to ensure the temperature-sensitive cargo is not affected by something as small as a flat tyre.
In the event of vehicle breakdowns or accidents, it’s vital to either fix the vehicle onsite if possible or have a storage or alternative transport solution that ensures the cold chain remains unbroken.
This can only be achieved with a trusted fleet partner who has experience in cold chain logistics and access to a reliable network that can be called in when the need arises.
Summary
The foundations of a reliable cold chain are planning, preparation, monitoring and access to the right resources when the unexpected happens.
The first step to ensuring a cold chain stays intact during transit is to make sure you are using the correct vehicles, and that those vehicles are always in excellent condition. Contact us to see how we can help you select the right cold chain solutions for your business.
