When reefer truck drivers transport perishable cargo, they have a lot to think about. Whether it’s produce, meat, plants, frozen foods, or pharmaceuticals, operating a well-running refrigerated trailer is important for safety and FDA compliance.
Temperature control is a primary concern in refrigerated trucking, but there are a number of ways to prepare and operate your rig to get the most out of a reefer trailer and have a safe, efficient journey. Proper reefer maintenance both before, during and after hauling can help prolong the life of the trailer and avoid potential problems later.
1- MONITOR TEMPERATURE CAREFULLY FOR A VARIETY OF FREIGHT
The purpose of refrigerated trucking is to safely transport perishable goods. Thus, it is essential that reefer truck drivers be vigilant in maintaining proper trailer temperatures, not allowing them to go above or below a certain point. Here are a few key trucking tips for keeping goods safe:
- Have a plan on paper: Plans should be agreed upon by the truck driver, the shipper and the receiver so that each party is aware of safe temperatures to avoid the product entering unsafe conditions at any point during transport. This should include specified temperatures for upper control limits (UCL) and lower control limits (LCL). Plans should also specify temperature ranges, rather than simply stating something should be “frozen” or “chilled.” If direction is too vague, it could lead to unsafe conditions and lost product.
- Check temperature: Checking the temperature just at the beginning doesn’t mean that those same temperatures are being maintained. So, it’s important that truck drivers continue checking the temperature during transit and when they arrive so that shipments aren’t rejected or contaminated.
2- ENSURE YOUR REFRIGERATED TRAILER IS CLEAN AND SAFE AT ALL TIMES
Basic tips for safety and cleanliness of a refrigerated trailer:
- Ensure the interior and exterior of the trailer are always clean before hauling a load.
- Follow all written procedures from shippers and ensures each load is cared for.
- Always use USDA approved detergents when cleaning refrigerated trailers.
3- CONDUCT REGULAR MAINTENANCE TO AVOID BREAKDOWNS
Regularly maintenance is key! Conduct preventative check-ups to ensure the truck is running well and hitting the road safely. It’s crucial to conduct maintenance at regular intervals to ensure that equipment and vehicles abide by local, state, and national regulations, and for the overall health of the fleet and the driver.
4- ENSURE LOADING GUIDELINES ARE FOLLOWED FOR PROPER AIRFLOW
The truck driver is also responsible for monitoring the loading and unloading process to make sure that goods are safely packed and moved, and can help to maintain proper temperatures. Check the refrigerated truck’s maximum height and weight limits before loading and make sure that cargo and pallets are stacked with proper space to allow airflow.
5- KEEP A RECORD OF SHIPMENTS AND PROCEDURES
As set forth by the FDA, maintenance of records are required and should include “written procedures, agreements and training.” The time for keeping these records depends on what’s contained within them, but generally does not exceed 12 months.
6- FILL DIESEL TANK FOR PROPER TRUCK REFRIGERATION
Refrigerated truck units run off diesel so it’s important that fuel is always replenished. Many loading docks require a refrigerated truck to be at least ¾ full of fuel before they load. Truck drivers need to be aware of fuel levels at all times. Additionally, low fuel may cause the cooling unit to take on residue from the fuel tank, which can cause mechanical problems that affect truck refrigeration.
Follow these 6 Refrigerated Trucking Tips for Drivers, and you’re bound to succeed! At Elite Trucks USA, we have different refrigerated trucks that we carefully inspect and test to make sure they are in good condition. We offer quality, financing options and provide a more reliable and convenient truck buying experience.
Source: TWTRANS
