When it comes to transporting temperature-sensitive goods, precooling trailers is a must!
This is because it’s a critical process — one which ensures that your shipments reach their destinations without having the integrity of their cargo compromised, which is why, in this article, we aim to shed light on its importance, offering a step-by-step guide to execute this procedure efficiently.
Why it’s important
For starters, precooling is essential for matching the trailer’s interior temperature to the required settings before loading, as temperature variations could degrade the cargo’s quality and safety.
Furthermore, meeting the regulatory and industry standards for temperature-sensitive shipments is non-negotiable, and these standards dictate that goods must be transported within certain temperature parameters, making precooling indispensable for compliance.
Finally, besides safeguarding the cargo, precooling enhances the refrigeration unit’s efficiency by reducing the unit’s workload, which not only conserves fuel but also minimizes the wear and tear on your equipment, ensuring longer service life and reliability.
For this reason, adhering to the following step-by-step guide is essential:
Step #1: Inspect Trailer
Start with a thorough inspection of the trailer, ensuring that it’s clean and devoid of residues or odors that might impact the cargo.
Step #2: Set Temperature
Adjust the refrigeration unit to achieve the temperature specified by the shipper or client.
Accuracy is key here.
Steph #3: Allow Precooling Time
The trailer must be given ample time to cool to the desired temperature.
The required duration can vary based on the cargo type and target temperature.
Step #4: Monitor Temperature
Keep a close watch on the trailer’s temperature during precooling, as it’s vital to ensure that the temperature stabilizes at the desired setting.
Step #5: Load the Cargo
Load the trailer only after it has reached and maintained the specified temperature.
Premature loading can lead to temperature discrepancies.
Step #6: Seal the Cargo Area
Once loaded, make sure to properly secure and seal the cargo area, in order to maintain the temperature throughout the journey.
Step #7: Record Temperatures
Document the temperature readings before, during, and after precooling, as these records are invaluable for reference and compliance.
The responsibility of precooling falls on everyone involved, especially your drivers. Hence, why it is imperative that each member of your team adheres to these guidelines to prevent any compromise in cargo quality. Failure to comply with precooling protocols is taken very seriously and can lead to severe disciplinary measures.
To ensure seamless operations and optimal compliance, we invite you to connect with our Safety and Compliance Department for any inquiries or additional training requirements regarding precooling procedures.
Your proactive approach to safety is paramount to us.