Common Causes of Refrigerated Shipment Delays
We live in a time when consumers expect cold, fresh products delivered on time. Delays and availability problems associated with perishables can disrupt your supply chain in a big way, so keeping a reliable cold chain for your temperature-sensitive cargo is of paramount importance. In this post, we look at the most common causes of delays for your refrigerated shipment and explain what Trans Pro does to avoid them.
External Factors:
- Traffic Congestion: Unexpected congestion on the road like traffic jams, or accidents, can cause delays for refrigerated vehicles. If there’s more than one delivery truck trying to go into the depot gates at the same time, this causes administrational issues, slows down all the vehicles and can lead to trouble. Deliveries centered around larger cities can cause major issues as they tend to experience heavy traffic. Furthermore, goods that are particularly perishable with short expiry dates may be ruined by thermal loss in the truck during unexpected traffic jams.
- Weather Events: Blizzards, hurricanes, excessive heat, as well as other acts of the weather can stop traffic, shut down roads, and jeopardize the cold chain. Inclement weather can grind road traffic and transportation to a stop. Hurricanes and tropical storms can snarl transportation networks or even shut them down entirely, with delays that can span days or even weeks. By that time, any perishable goods will likely already be spoiled.
- Mechanical Breakdowns: Even with regular maintenance check-ups, a breakdown can still occur. A broken engine or a flat tire can delay your path, but for refrigerated trucks, a broken cooling system will put perishables at risk. A cooling system that isn’t functioning correctly will cause hot and cold spots in the trailer. Perishables stored in the hot zones risk spoilage and compromise the entire trailer load.
Planning and Logistics Challenges:
- Improper Route Planning: Inefficient route planning that doesn’t account for potential delays or traffic patterns can lead to unnecessary detours and delays. Efficient route planning is crucial for on-time delivery, especially for temperature-controlled cargo. Failing to account for potential traffic congestion, road closures, or even rest-stop availability for drivers can lead to unnecessary delays. Trans Pro employs advanced route optimization software that considers various factors to create the most efficient route possible, minimizing travel time and reducing the risk of delays.
- Inventory Management Issues: Delays at loading docks due to unprepared shipments or warehouse congestion can cause a domino effect, impacting the entire delivery schedule. Inefficiencies at the origin or destination facilities can also contribute to delays. Unprepared shipments that are not ready for pick-up at the designated time can hold up the truck and delay subsequent deliveries. Similarly, warehouse congestion at the receiving facility can lead to delays in offloading the shipment, impacting the overall delivery timeframe. Trans Pro works closely with clients to ensure shipments are prepared and ready for pick-up on time, minimizing delays at origin facilities.
- Documentation Errors: Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork can lead to delays at customs checkpoints or during inspections, holding up your shipment. Proper documentation is essential for the smooth flow of refrigerated transportation. Incomplete or inaccurate information on customs forms, phytosanitary certificates, or bills of lading can lead to delays at border crossings while officials rectify the errors. Trans Pro employs a team of experienced logistics specialists who ensure all documentation is accurate and complete, avoiding delays at customs checkpoints.
Trans Pro: Your Partner in Reliable Cold Chain Management
At Trans Pro, we prioritize the safe and timely delivery of your temperature-controlled cargo. Here’s how we combat common causes of refrigerated shipment delays:
- Experienced Drivers and Optimized Routes: Our team of experienced and qualified drivers prioritize safe and efficient delivery. We utilize route optimization software to plan the most efficient routes, minimizing travel time and reducing the risk of delays. Trans Pro employs a team of highly trained and experienced drivers who prioritize safe and efficient delivery of your temperature-controlled cargo. Our drivers are familiar with various routes and can navigate unexpected situations on the road. We utilize sophisticated route optimization software that considers factors such as traffic patterns, weather conditions, and potential road closures to create the most efficient route possible. This not only minimizes travel time but also reduces the risk of delays caused by unforeseen circumstances.
- Advanced Fleet Maintenance: We prioritize preventative maintenance for our refrigerated trucks to ensure optimal performance, as well as minimize the risk of breakdowns. Our well-maintained fleet guarantees the uninterrupted cold chain for your perishables. At Trans Pro, we understand that a breakdown on the road can be disastrous for refrigerated shipments. That’s why we prioritize preventative maintenance for our entire fleet. Our refrigerated trucks undergo regular inspections and servicing to ensure all components are functioning optimally. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of breakdowns and ensures an uninterrupted cold chain for your temperature-sensitive cargo.
- Contingency Plans and Backup Solutions: Even with the best planning and cautionary measures, there are times when the unexpected happens. If a customer’s needs aren’t fully understood there may be the potential for a misunderstanding. Many things can change in the transport world – that’s why Trans Pro always has contingencies and backup solutions for situations that could possibly arise with unexpected situations.
Trans Pro: Keeping Your Refrigerated Shipment on Track
By understanding the common causes of refrigerated shipment delays and implementing proactive strategies, Trans Pro ensures your temperature-controlled cargo arrives fresh and on time. Don’t let unforeseen delays impact your business.
No more searching for reefer trucking companies! Together, let’s ensure your perishable goods reach their destination safely and efficiently.
