There’s a Smarter Way to Manage Cold Chain Logistics
By Uday Ippala • Published January 21, 2022 • 5 minute read
Hauling refrigerated loads is a complex process. From the moment a load enters their chain of custody until the time it leaves, fleets must monitor the condition of the cargo and keep proper documentation to effectively prevent cargo claims and other risks.
Exceptions can arise at any point when shipping temperature-sensitive goods. If these exceptions are not immediately detected and acted upon, the load can be in jeopardy of getting rejected on arrival.
Trailer refrigeration units (TRUs) capture a detailed record of temperatures and other data points. Shippers also use data logging devices, but in both cases, extracting data from these machines and devices often takes place once deliveries are complete. By then it’s too late. The damage is already done.
Using a complete reefer management solution with these six core features helps fleets prevent cargo claims while improving operational efficiencies:
1. Temperature alerts:
Every degree counts, and that’s why temperature out-of-range notifications that immediately alert users if cargo temperatures go outside the acceptable range are so valuable. For added protection, some systems can apply if-then-else logic to the location, temperature, door status, fuel level and other data points. This makes the information that dispatchers, drivers, or fleet managers receive more relevant and actionable for loads that require attention to make necessary adjustments that ensure product safety and integrity.
2. Trip documentation:
Fluctuations in temperature can result in a product that arrives off-spec and results in a load rejection. A reefer management solution that documents temperatures for the entire trip can provide verification that loads remained on spec and in compliance with Food Safety Modernization Act Standards.
3. Fuel sensing:
To maximize fuel savings and prevent costly operating errors, fleets can use intelligent sensors that detect fuel loss, fuel refills and fuel levels. The data can help prepare for the next day’s loads by monitoring fuel levels to ensure that assets are ready to go.
4. Two-way reefer controls:
Systems with remote command and control communications enable authorized users to make timely adjustments to keep loads in compliance and take actions to maximize reefer operating efficiencies.
5. Advanced geofencing features:
Remote command and control features can be set to automatically adjust temperatures and turn reefers on or off according to location-based shipper load instructions.
6. Business intelligence:
Reporting tools can help fleets improve asset utilization and identify outliers for under-performing or over-performing assets. Advanced analytics can also uncover maintenance inefficiencies and increase fuel savings.
Gaining a 360-degree view for effective reefer management
SkyBitz has you covered when it comes to managing cold chain logistics and refrigerated freight. As a leader in GPS trailer tracking and cargo monitoring, SkyBitz also offers advanced reefer monitoring through a partnership with Coretex.
The SkyBitz x Coretex solution leverages the industry leading Coretex TMU1500 unit that installs quickly on vehicles, trailers, and intermodal containers with Thermo King and Carrier trailer refrigeration units (TRUs).
The integrated platform gives fleets a 360-degree view and real-time control of refrigerated assets and cold chain operations by uniquely combining GPS tracking with intuitive temperature data monitoring, along with advanced command and control functionality.
The device and Coretex 360 reefer software management platform integrate seamlessly with the SkyBitz InSight Web Application to deliver a single sign-on experience. This gives fleets total visibility and control of refrigerated cargo and assets.
Motor carriers that use the InSight + 360 solution also have access to a wide range of expandable options for monitoring trailer components and cargo.
Fleets with refrigerated trailers and containers can also achieve higher levels of operating efficiency and control by using sensors that:
● Detect open door events to maximize fuel savings and minimize risk, and door close events to know when a load is ready for pickup.
● Connect with the trailer ABS to detect fault codes for maintenance purposes.
● Probe cargo temperatures for extra validation of cargo integrity.
● Alert to maintenance events when the tire inflation system is activated.
● Capture engine hours and highly accurate GPS mileage for more efficient maintenance schedules.
Add it all up and you have a smarter way to manage cold chain logistics. For more information download our infographic.
