Transporting perishable goods such as farm products for long distances can be quite challenging without refrigerated transport. Although refrigerated transport dates back to the last half of the 19th century, its real benefits are witnessed in this era of globalisation. It has changed the fortunes of both small scale and large scale farmers by ensuring their products reach the market while still fresh. On the other hand, it has created a demand for fresh produce. For instance, a food company in Brazil can source its raw materials from Australia, as it is confident that the products will arrive fresh. If you would like to transport your fresh produce through refrigerated transport, below are a few considerations you must make.

What are you transporting? 

The type of product you need to transport will determine the transport conditions. For instance, vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage require lower temperatures and high humidity during transport compared to products such as pumpkins and potatoes. Preferably, you should cool the produce after harvesting to slow down the growth of pathogens. 

The produce you transport must be of high quality. Pathogens in diseased or damaged fruits and vegetables may spread to healthy produce. In such scenarios, you are likely to incur losses. Besides, you want your customers to get the best produce.

Choosing a transport vehicle. 

Various transport companies offer refrigerated transport services. The company you choose to work with must be experienced and reputable in refrigerated transport. If you are shipping your products overseas, then you must contact a company with reefer ships (ships that have refrigeration amenities) or temperature controlled air freight to transport your produce. On the road, you can choose either a refrigerated van or truck to carry your products depending on the quantity.

Loading conditions. 

If possible, supervise the loading of your goods onto the refrigerated vehicle. Below are some precautions to observe:

• The truck should be clean and dry.
• The vehicle must have a working thermometer to enable you to set the required temperature for your products.
• Do not overload the truck; there must be adequate air circulation to ensure all the products are cool.
• The workers loading the goods should be healthy and observe personal hygiene.
• The fruits or vegetables should be packed in a manner that reduces damage to the products.

A lot of care must be exercised when transporting farm produce through refrigerated transport. Ensure the produce is of high quality, choose a suitable transport company, and observe the recommended precautions while loading the commodities.

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