9 things every good logistics specialist with refrigerated trailers needs to know
Logistics with refrigerated trailers is a highly specialized discipline that goes far beyond simply transporting goods at low temperatures. Here are eight less obvious but crucial aspects that every logistician should know in order to be successful in this field.
1. real-time temperature monitoring and control
Modern refrigerated trailers are equipped with IoT temperature sensors that enable precise monitoring and control of the temperature in real time. These sensors can report deviations immediately so that corrective action can be taken quickly to ensure the quality of the transported goods. An example of this is the integration of IoT temperature sensors at a leading food company, which was able to reduce losses by 30% as a result.real-time monitoring makes it possible to detect and correct temperature deviations immediately, which is particularly important for the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods such as food and pharmaceuticals. Systems such as FleetGO's provide comprehensive monitoring and temperature deviation alerts, ensuring compliance with HACCP and EU37/2005 regulations.
2. energy-efficient cooling technologies
The latest refrigerated trailers use advanced technologies such as the RadiCal DC fans from ebm-papst, which can reduce energy consumption by up to 30%. These fans are infinitely adjustable and enable precise cooling, regardless of the vehicle's engine speed. This leads to considerable cost savings and a reduction in CO2 emissions. Another example is adiabatic cooling, which works by evaporative cooling and thus further reduces energy consumption. This technology is used in industrial cooling systems and can significantly reduce water consumption, resulting in a sustainable and cost-efficient solution.
3. use of alternative energy sources
Innovative technologies such as the AxlePower system from Thermo King use the energy generated by the axle movement of the trailer to operate the cooling system. This makes the refrigerated trailer independent of the tractor unit and significantly reduces fuel consumption. Such systems are particularly useful in urban areas with strict emissions regulations. Another example is the use of solar roofs on electric 18-ton trucks, which provide additional energy for cooling. This technology is being developed by the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) and helps to reduce the CO2 footprint.
4. predictive maintenance
IoT sensors enable predictive maintenance by collecting data on the condition and performance of equipment. This helps to detect and fix maintenance issues early before they lead to costly breakdowns. Maersk Line, for example, uses IoT-based predictive maintenance to reduce maintenance costs and minimize the risk of breakdowns. Predictive maintenance uses sensors and data analytics to continuously monitor the condition of equipment and predict potential problems. This enables proactive maintenance and significantly reduces unplanned downtime, improving the efficiency and reliability of the cold chain.
5. improved air circulation
Optimizing the air circulation within the trailer is crucial for uniform cooling of the load. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analyses have shown that the placement of inlets and outlets and the use of air baffles can significantly improve temperature distribution. This is particularly important for the transportation of sensitive food and pharmaceutical products. One example is the S.KO COOL SMART trailer from Schmitz Cargobull, which uses a revised air distribution system to avoid heat pockets and ensure even temperature distribution. This is achieved through flexible hoods and optimized air ducts that ensure efficient air circulation.
6 Regulatory compliance and traceability
Compliance with regulations and the ability to prove temperature conditions throughout transportation is critical. Telematics solutions provide comprehensive traceability and help to ensure compliance with regulations such as the EU regulation for the transportation of pharmaceuticals. This strengthens customer confidence and minimizes legal risks. One example is the Good Distribution Practice (GDP) for the transportation of pharmaceuticals, which places strict requirements on temperature monitoring and traceability. Systems like Powerfleet's offer comprehensive compliance solutions that ensure all regulatory requirements are met.
7. flexibility thanks to modular refrigerated containers
Modular refrigerated containers offer a flexible solution for the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods. These containers can be used in standard vehicles and offer a cost-effective way to maintain the cold chain. They are particularly useful for companies that need to cope with seasonal fluctuations in demand. Modular containers can be installed quickly and transported easily, making them an ideal solution for temporary or changing requirements. They also offer the ability to create different cooling zones within a container, further increasing the flexibility and efficiency of transportation.
8. use of refrigerants with low global warming potential
Modular refrigerated containers offer a flexible solution for the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods. These containers can be used in standard vehicles and offer a cost-effective way to maintain the cold chain. They are particularly useful for companies that need to cope with seasonal fluctuations in demand. Modular containers can be installed quickly and transported easily, making them an ideal solution for temporary or changing requirements. They also offer the ability to create different cooling zones within a container, further increasing the flexibility and efficiency of transportation.
9 KATMA CleanControl - Automated loader cleaning
Thanks to full automation, KATMA CleanControl sets a new, safe standard for truck load compartment cleaning. From three minutes, a robot cleans and disinfects the load compartment fully automatically - around the clock from €26 per wash. The KATMA Cloud then creates a cleaning certificate that is clearly assigned to the truck license plate. The certificate is automatically imported directly into the respective transport management system, ERP system or similar via an interface, which ensures seamless logging. We save up to 75% water, up to 90% chemicals, up to 60% energy and guarantee clean and safe transportation. Pay-Per-Wash means: No fixed costs! We do not sell the machine. We always charge per wash. Certified cleaning is possible from as little as €26 per wash. Whether in the yard or at a public car wash: KATMA CleanControl is affordable and plannable. All you need is electricity, water and a sealed surface - that's it. We also monitor the machine continuously using remote control and can be on site very quickly if servicing is required. Chemical deliveries are also included. No personnel are required.
