Rules for the carriage of perishable goods

Types of Vehicles for Perishable Goods Transportation

Transporting perishable goods requires specialized vehicles that ensure the maintenance of necessary temperature conditions and other factors to preserve the freshness and quality of the products. The main types of vehicles used for transporting perishable goods include:

Refrigerated Trucks

These are vehicles with insulated bodies equipped with refrigeration units.

• They maintain a set temperature (typically from -25°C to +25°C) regardless of external conditions.
• Ideal for transporting food products, medicines, and other goods requiring strict temperature control.

Insulated Vans

These trucks have insulated bodies but lack refrigeration equipment.

• They maintain temperatures close to those at the time of loading for a limited time.
• Suitable for short-term transportation or goods requiring less strict temperature control.

Refrigerated Containers

Special containers with built-in refrigeration systems.

• They can maintain a wide range of temperatures and provide long-term storage for goods.
• Suitable for sea, rail, and road transportation over long distances.

Refrigerated Rail Cars

Rail cars equipped with refrigeration units.

• Designed to maintain a constant temperature over long distances.
• Used in rail transport for delivering large shipments of perishable goods.

Airplane Refrigerators

Aircraft with equipment to maintain the required temperature in cargo compartments.

• Ensure fast delivery over long distances under strict temperature control.
• Used for international transportation of perishable goods, especially when rapid movement is required.

Importance of Proper Perishable Goods Transportation

Risks of Improper Transportation

Transporting perishable goods comes with risks that, if not properly managed, can lead to significant losses and product degradation. Factors such as delays at the border, road accidents, traffic jams, and poor road conditions can contribute to the spoilage of perishable products during transportation. These risks highlight the importance of following specific storage and transportation rules to minimize potential negative impacts and ensure safe delivery to consumers.

Impact on Quality and Shelf Life

The quality and shelf life of perishable products are directly affected by the conditions in which they are transported. Maintaining the appropriate temperature, humidity, and hygiene standards is crucial to preserving the freshness and safety of perishable goods throughout the transportation process. Various categories of perishable goods have specific requirements to ensure their quality and longevity. For example, products with a shelf life of less than 72 hours require strict adherence to temperature regimes not exceeding +6°C.

Compliance with Regulations and Standards

To ensure adherence to regulations and standards, it is important to follow specific rules during transportation and storage. These guidelines include:

• Meeting storage and transportation deadlines established for each type of perishable product.
• Following the storage conditions and shelf life prescribed by the manufacturer.
• Presenting perishable goods in a transportable condition that meets quality and packaging requirements. Adherence to hygiene and sanitation standards during transportation is also critical to prevent contamination and ensure the preservation of perishable products.

Regulations and Standards for Perishable Goods Transportation

Temperature Control Requirements: Transporting perishable goods requires strict adherence to temperature control requirements to ensure the preservation of quality and safety throughout the journey. Perishable goods include a wide range of products, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, meat, and seafood. For example, frozen goods must consistently be stored at temperatures below -6°C to prevent thawing and spoilage. Similarly, chilled perishable cargo requires close attention to maintaining the necessary temperature and humidity levels to prevent deterioration during transportation.

Packaging and Labeling Recommendations: In addition to temperature control, proper packaging and labeling play a key role in maintaining the quality of perishable goods during transportation. Adequate packaging helps protect products from physical damage and contamination, while clear and accurate labeling ensures handlers are aware of the perishable nature of the cargo and any special handling requirements.

Documentation and Record Keeping: Documentation and record keeping are crucial aspects of transporting perishable goods, ensuring traceability and compliance with regulations. Proper documentation includes details such as the type and quantity of goods being transported, the required temperature and humidity conditions, as well as any specific handling instructions. For example, the storage time before loading and the transportation duration of chilled poultry should not exceed certain limits to preserve its quality and safety. Additionally, special attention must be given to highly perishable goods that may have shorter shelf lives and require even stricter temperature control measures. By following the recommended guidelines for packaging, labeling, and documentation, transport service providers can ensure the quality and safety of perishable goods throughout the entire supply chain.

Storage Conditions for Perishable Goods During Transportation

Temperature and Humidity Control: One of the most important aspects of transporting perishable goods is the strict control of temperature and humidity throughout the entire transportation process. Perishable goods with a shelf life of less than 72 hours require specific temperature conditions of no higher than +6°C to maintain quality and safety. It is essential to monitor the temperature of the goods both before loading and inside the refrigerated vehicle during transit. Adhering to these temperature requirements is crucial to preventing spoilage and ensuring the goods are delivered to their destination in optimal condition.

Proper Ventilation and Air Circulation: Proper ventilation and air circulation play a vital role in preserving the quality of perishable goods during transportation. Ventilated and refrigerated vehicles are typically used for transporting perishable goods, such as dairy products, where maintaining a consistent temperature is critical for freshness and quality. When loading perishable goods, attention must be given to arranging them in a way that ensures adequate air circulation to prevent spoilage. Additionally, during temperature monitoring in transit, the placement of sensors should be considered to ensure accurate monitoring of conditions throughout the journey.

To protect perishable goods from contamination and spoilage during transportation, it is necessary to shield them from dirt and dust. Transport containers and packaging should be designed to prevent the intrusion of external elements that may compromise the quality of the goods.

Best Practices for Maintaining Quality and Freshness During Transportation

Monitoring and Quality Control Measures: Ensuring the quality and freshness of perishable goods during transportation involves implementing strict control and monitoring measures. Before loading perishable goods, the shipper must verify the suitability of the transport vehicle to maintain the required conditions for the cargo. This includes checking the commercial suitability of the vehicle and ensuring it meets the necessary standards for transporting perishable products. When selecting the mode of transport for perishable cargo, factors such as estimated delivery time, shelf life, and appropriate temperature conditions must be carefully considered. By adhering to these measures, shippers can reduce the risk of spoilage and preserve the quality of perishable goods throughout the transportation process.

Handling and Loading Procedures: Proper handling and loading procedures are crucial for maintaining the freshness and integrity of perishable goods during transportation. The container used for transport should be tightly packed and placed near the back wall of the cargo compartment to prevent shifting and damage during transit. Additionally, specific recommendations for loading, unloading, and transporting should be followed to ensure the goods remain in optimal condition. Temperature and humidity control inside the vehicle is paramount to preventing damage or spoilage, highlighting the importance of maintaining appropriate environmental conditions throughout the journey. By following these procedures, shippers can minimize the risk of quality loss and preserve the integrity of perishable goods.

Emergency and Contingency Plans: In the event of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances during the transportation of perishable goods, having clearly defined response plans is crucial to minimizing risks and ensuring timely action. Shippers should develop contingency plans to address issues such as temperature deviations, delays, or equipment malfunctions that may affect the quality of the cargo. Additionally, compliance with storage regulations, transport rules, and specific requirements for different types of perishable goods is essential to prevent spoilage or damage during transit. By planning for emergencies in advance and adhering to established regulations, shippers can ensure the quality and freshness of perishable goods throughout the entire transportation process.

In conclusion, proper transportation of perishable goods is essential to preserving their quality and freshness. Failure to comply with storage conditions and regulations can lead to significant risks, affecting both product quality and shelf life. By following temperature control, packaging, and documentation guidelines, businesses can ensure the safe and efficient transportation of perishable products. Implementing best practices such as quality monitoring, proper handling procedures, and emergency response plans can further enhance the preservation of these goods during transit. Overall, attention to detail and adherence to guidelines are crucial to maintaining the integrity of perishable goods throughout the supply chain.