With temperature-controlled transportation, the integrity of the supply chain is critical at every level as the liability is often high. These standards, coupled with the expectation of on-time delivery and superior safety, makes it crucial to find a company that has the right experience and expertise.
Knowing this, Rinchem has come up with the top three qualities to look for when choosing a company to provide refrigerated transportation: technology, equipment, and experience.
Technology
You’ll want to find a provider that has updated and well-maintained equipment. You don’t want to have a company with tractors and trailers that have the potential of breaking down. For example, Rinchem utilizes Carrier refrigeration units as well as all stainless utility trailers with air ride suspension. It’s important to know that your product will not only be delivered in its expected condition, but that it will arrive on-time.
Safety is another key feature to look for in a carrier’s equipment. Look for a company that prioritizes safety in their vehicles like top and bottom safety lights that will further protect the precious cargo it’s carrying. These types of additional safety features help alert other drivers on the road to the semi-truck and provides an added layer of defensive driving that the drivers should already be taking. Similarly, it’s wise to inquire about the transportation provider’s safety score from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Make sure that the company has a satisfactory score and is in good standing. You can also ask to see a full list of other features they may have – this will give you insight into how serious the company takes safety. For example, some carriers utilize other safety equipment to further ensure safe driving like, on-board recording devices, a rigid driver screening process, speed limiters, rear-end crash avoidance systems and lane deviation warning systems.
Cleanliness and sterility are also key features in choosing a company to transport your temperature-controlled product. The materials being transported aren’t your run-of-the-mill packages and require a level of sanitation to preserve the integrity of the cargo. Make sure you ask about a company’s standards of cleanliness for their trucks and the requirements of their drivers to maintain it.
Equipment
You’ll want to find a provider that has updated and well-maintained equipment. You don’t want to have a company with tractors and trailers that have the potential of breaking down. For example, Rinchem utilizes Carrier refrigeration units as well as all stainless utility trailers with air ride suspension. It’s important to know that your product will not only be delivered in its expected condition, but that it will arrive on-time.
Safety is another key feature to look for in a carrier’s equipment. Look for a company that prioritizes safety in their vehicles like top and bottom safety lights that will further protect the precious cargo it’s carrying. These types of additional safety features help alert other drivers on the road to the semi-truck and provides an added layer of defensive driving that the drivers should already be taking. Similarly, it’s wise to inquire about the transportation provider’s safety score from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Make sure that the company has a satisfactory score and is in good standing. You can also ask to see a full list of other features they may have – this will give you insight into how serious the company takes safety. For example, some carriers utilize other safety equipment to further ensure safe driving like, on-board recording devices, a rigid driver screening process, speed limiters, rear-end crash avoidance systems and lane deviation warning systems.
Cleanliness and sterility are also key features in choosing a company to transport your temperature-controlled product. The materials being transported aren’t your run-of-the-mill packages and require a level of sanitation to preserve the integrity of the cargo. Make sure you ask about a company’s standards of cleanliness for their trucks and the requirements of their drivers to maintain it.
Experience
Finally, you will want to find a company that’s agile. They’ll need the experience, longevity, and assets ready to respond to all your transportation needs. Rinchem understands that our customers’ needs fluctuate and having the flexibility to meet those demands is vital. Plus, regulations within the transportation world are always evolving. It’s imperative to find a company that can continually meet those changing demands with their equipment, drivers, and technology.
Moreover, you may want to explore finding a company that is asset based but also offers brokerage. This provides customers with a superior level of flexibility and the ability to adapt to their needs.
At the end of the day, we know that nothing is more important to our customers dealing with cold-chain transportation than their assets being delivered on time and safely intact. Finding a company that can do this is of utmost importance. Technology, equipment and experience are all play a vital role in ensuring the safe delivery of your product.
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About Rinchem Company Inc.
Rinchem Company, Inc. is the largest network of chemical and gas distribution centers globally with proven expertise in creating and managing safe and efficient supply chains for high purity, pre-packaged chemicals, and gases. We apply four decades of expertise, industry thought leadership, and logistics transparency to provide the most reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for our customers.
Learn more about Rinchem’s Transportation options:
CGL Transport
Carolina Tank Lines