All products requiring strict temperature control can be vulnerable during transportation, which is why using MSC’s experienced reefer experts is such a good idea.
Everything from collection from the field, movement to warehouse and pre-treatment handling/packaging through to distribution requires the highest level of care to preserve the condition of the product to ensure quality and value are maintained.
Providing refrigerated products are handled carefully, using the right equipment, their size, freshness, firmness, texture, colour, flavour, aroma and chemical balance are not compromised in transit.
There are three key heat factors that impact on the temperature of products during transportation:
- Outside temperatures entering the container during load and unload periods
- The temperature of the product itself prior to loading
- The ventilation is set according the cargo requirements
As a result, it’s important that goods are pre-cooled ahead of transportation to achieve optimal temperature levels before they are loaded into a container. This will reduce the impact of outside temperatures on your valuable products during the transportation period.
It is important to note that there is currently no technology available to prevent or reverse the ageing of perishable goods; reefer transportation adopts technology which aims to slow down this process, maximising the shelf life of your cargo.
Packing refrigerated cargo
Palletised loads of refrigerated cargo must be capable of supporting a stacking of up to 2.4 metres height. The material used for packaging must also be able to withstand moisture and allow a vertical airflow through boxes in order to maintain the desired temperature.
It is important that the corners of boxes must be securely supported by the pallet. Stacks of boxes must be accurately aligned to ensure weight is supported in all four corners of each box. Air vents in boxes must be aligned to allow for the easy flow of air without restrictions.
Other useful reefer information