Some experts say that this is the invisible lifeline that powers global trade.
Transportation management is the process of ensuring that goods needing temperature control are transferred within the supply chain between manufacturers, warehouses and retailers at appropriate temperature.
This will include everything from refrigerated trucks to ships to air cargo that have advanced temperature-monitoring systems. Transport logistics management requires a great deal of advance planning to avoid delays, track temperature fluctuations, and make sure the product is delivered safely and on time.
Transportation can be the riskiest part of the supply chain as there are lots of potential hazards to overcome. It is challenging to maintain consistent temperatures over such large distances and in such diverse environments.
During transport, especially in areas experiencing extreme weather conditions or in long-distance transportation, the temperature can change.
Environmental Fluctuations – Maintaining the optimal temperature of goods for a period of time is daunting. Aside from changing the ambient temperature and humidity, extreme weather conditions could cause delays that result in higher energy consumption and increased overhead costs.
Unexpected Equipment Breakdowns – Even the priciest and regularly maintained equipment could act up or completely stop working because of weather conditions, traffic circumstances, and many more. Being prepared for any uncertainty is the best way to deal with this.
Cold storage management and monitoring has greatly been improved with the help of the Internet of Things (IoT) and temperature sensors. Such technologies allow for real-time tracking and monitoring of temperature, humidity, and other environmental parameters throughout refrigerated containers, trucks, and warehouses.
GPS-enabled monitoring systems can track location and temperature simultaneously, alerting operators of deviations in real-time.
Data obtained from such sensors is analysed to recognize patterns and optimize cooling procedures to maintain the quality and safety of the product. This is particularly important for transporting and storing of perishable foods that require constant temperatures.
Distribution Centres: Safeguarding Inventory
This component is the foundation of cold chain logistics since products are kept here after manufacture and before distribution. Cold storage warehouses have sophisticated refrigeration systems, floor-to-ceiling insulation, ventilation and humidity control, and real-time temperature monitoring tools that maintain precise environmental conditions for temperature-sensitive goods.
Temperature monitoring in warehouses and storage areas containing food and drink products is governed by specific regulations, including HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) controls.
This means that food safety hazards are identified and monitored and ensures that controls are in place to eliminate or minimise risks to consumers. This relates to frozen, chilled and ambient storage conditions.
