Transporting perishable goods is more than just getting them from Point A to Point B. It’s about keeping them fresh, safe, and intact. & preserving their quality every step of the way. Because no customer would want their ice cream melted or their medicine spoiled, right?
That’s why temperature-controlled logistics are essential. But how this cold logistics system works? & how many types of transport are there to choose?
Let’s find out in this blog post about types of cold transport.
Speaking of cool, do you know about Flexi Couriers? We’re Australia’s ultimate logistics provider. Keeping your goods fresh, frozen, or steady at room temp.
With over 13 years of experience, 700+ vehicles, and operations in all the big cities of WA. We’re the top Perth couriers that can provide safe & delivery for your business.
Starting with the basics.
What is Temperature-Controlled Transport?
Temperature-controlled transport is the movement of goods in specialised vehicles or containers. Which are designed to maintain a specific temperature range.
This is critical for industries dealing with perishable items. E.g. food, beverages, medicines, pharmaceutical samples and cosmetics. These goods require strict temperature maintenance to retain their quality during transit.
So, these businesses have to incorporate cold logistics services. For maintaining regulatory compliance and consumer trust. Otherwise, they can face product spoilage, financial losses, and reputational damage.
Luckily, innovative temperature-controlled solutions are there. Like those offered by Flexi Couriers. They make it easier than ever to safeguard your products & grow your business.
To Know More: Read Cold Chain Logistics & Management | A Complete Guide
Different Types of Temperature-Controlled Courier Services
If we consider the difference in temperature range. 3 types of cold chain logistics are there.
1. Refrigerated Logistics
This type of logistics keeps the goods chilled at lower temperatures. They involve a refrigeration unit and insulation with adjustable thermal readings. It’s an ideal option for items that can’t handle the heat but also don’t need freezing.
Temperature Range
0°C to 10°C
Products
- Fresh vegetables & fruits
- Dairy products
- Pharmaceuticals
- Seafood
- Flowers & bouquets
- Beverages
- Meat & poultry
This type of transport is used to maintain freshness and quality. & avoid spoilage from pickup to delivery. Our refrigerated transport in Perth can keep your products fresh and market-ready.
2. Frozen Logistics
Frozen logistics involves transporting the goods at sub-zero temperatures. It is basically a truck or trailer fully converted into a freezer unit. Products that need to be frozen in order to prevent spoilage are transported with it.
Temperature Range
Lower than -18°C to -30
Products
- Frozen foods
- Ice cream & sorbets
- Frozen meat & seafood
- Bakery goods
- Frozen pharmaceuticals
- Confectionery & chocolates
- Pet foods
This method locks in the quality and extends the shelf life of products. That would otherwise spoil in non-freezing conditions. At Flexi Couriers, we excel in frozen delivery service. To keep your frozen goods in perfect condition throughout transit.
3. Ambient Logistics
Ambient logistics caters to products that must stay within a stable environment. & can be damaged due to a rise in heat during transport. But don’t need the lower temperatures or freezing conditions.
They are equipped with thick insulation (usually 55mm). To maintain a specific temperature irrespective of outdoor conditions.
Temperature Range
Between 15°C and 25°C
Products
- Packaged snacks
- Canned foods
- Dry food items
- Pharmaceuticals
- Household products
- Shelf-stable drinks
- Electronics
Ambient transport ensures stability at room temperature. & make the products reach their destination in perfect shape without extra cooling or heating. Our temperature-controlled courier includes reliable ambient logistics for your business needs.
Types of Transport Used in Temperature-Controlled Logistics
1. Specialised Vehicles
Refrigerated vehicles are the backbone of temperature-controlled logistics. They are also called reefer trucks.
These vehicles are equipped with advanced cooling systems. & designed to transport perishable goods over short and long distances. They involve:
- Chiller conversion vehicles
- Insulation only vans
- Deep freezer trucks
With Flexi Couriers’ refrigerated couriers. You can get timely and secure deliveries across Perth.
2. Air Freight
Air freight offers the fastest way to move temperature-sensitive goods over long distances. And also can be used for in-country deliveries.
This method can fight the time limits, geographical distances and lack of infrastructure. (roads, railways, ports, etc). The following types of transport is used in it.
- Commercial airlines: They have smaller storage capacity but can provide pick & drop on airport.
- Integrators: Dedicated cold courier services are used in it. E.g. Flexi Couriers.
- Specialized cargo airliners They do not carry passengers and therefore offer more space.
Air freight is ideal for urgent shipments like medical supplies. It provides speed but can be costlier than other methods.
3. Sea Freight
Sea freight is a more economical option for large shipments. Due to recent increased demands of pharmaceuticals. The shipments via oceans have started and increasing day by day.
Following types of freights are used.
- Full Container Load (FCL)
- Less than Container Load (LCL)
- Reefer Containers (Refrigerated Freight)
- Dry Bulk Shipping
- Liquid Bulk Shipping
- Roll-On/Roll-Off Shipping
Though it is slower than air freight. Modern refrigerated containers make it possible to transport goods over extended periods. Without any compromise on the quality.
Air Freight vs. Sea Freight: Pros and Cons
| Aspect | Air Freight | Sea Freight |
| Speed | Fast (1–3 days) | Slow (weeks) |
| Cost | High | Lower |
| Risk | High | Lower |
| Capacity | Limited | High |
| Best for | Urgent and small shipments | Bulky items that are not time-sensitive |
Control Methods in Refrigerated Transport Services
- Active Shipping
Active shipping uses advanced containers with built-in temperature regulation systems. They use constant cooling by electricity or any other source.
These containers are ideal for high-value goods. & offer precise temperature control throughout the journey.
- Passive Shipping
Passive shipping involves insulated packaging with cooling materials. E.g. gel packs or dry ice. The products are pre-cooled & that pre-temperature is maintained during the journey.
This technique offers cost-effective for short trips. But do not suit long-haul or highly sensitive items.
All these advanced shipments & control methods are used to deal with the challenges. That every freight faces along the way.
Common Risks in Temperature-Controlled Shipping
Here are some common challenges faced by temperature-controlled transport.
- Faulty equipment: They can cause temperature deviations, leading to product spoilage.
- Packaging Failures: Improper packaging can compromise insulation and temperature.
- Transit Delays: Unexpected delays can impact product quality, especially for perishables.
- Weather Conditions: Harsh weather conditions can halt the delivery and even damage the products
- Vehicle damage & Accidents: Any unfortunate accident can happen on road, air as well as ocean.
These risks have to be managed with pro-active planning, regular checks, and other safety measurements. To manage the temperature effectively throughout transit.
Important Measures to Avoid Temperature Fluctuations
A reliable cold transport system arranges proper measures to cope with the above-mentioned challenges. & make the efficient deliveries possible. Following are some essential steps to help in this regard.
- Real-time temperature monitoring systems. (E.g. IoT sensors and GPS tracking devices).
- Use of reliable equipment & refrigeration units.
- Pre-cooling and Pre-conditioning before making the delivery.
- Planning of efficient transportation routes with alternatives.
- Trained Personnel & staff.
- Backup power systems.
- Regular checks & inspections.
Looking for a Reliable Perth Courier with Temperature Regulation?
Choose Flexi Couriers for Refrigerated Transport Services
At Flexi Couriers, we provide you with an agile, reliable, and temperature-controlled courier services. To help your business in timely and efficient deliveries.
We offer delivery services in Perth. That covers cold storage as well as long-haul frozen logistics. Our refrigerated courier services & warehousing storage solutions keep your products safe. On every step of the way. So, you don’t have to face customer dissatisfaction and product loss.