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Five Signs of a Quality Refrigerated LTL Freight Service

Moving refrigerated freight is a difficult and complicated process – do you have a shipping partner capable of handling the job?

“Reefer” refrigerated equipment is complex and needs to be kept in optimal condition to ensure the safety of the loads.  Typically, this also requires appropriate cold-storage systems at the shipping depot as well.  Plus, major retailers like grocery chains have high expectations for their suppliers and associated shipping companies.  They have tight windows for shipment, and it’s easy to incur penalties for missing that window.

You need a refrigerated LTL freight company that can overcome these hurdles.  Here’s what to look for.

Must-Haves In A Refrigerated Freight Company

1 – Robust temperature-controlled services

Given the variety of products that can be shipped cold, and their varying temperature requirements – from chilled to frozen – you need a shipping service with the hardware to handle every need.  They should be flexible and capable of dealing with different shipping demands as well, including on-site cooling systems.

2 – Predictable delivery services

Dealing with last-minute shipping orders can be difficult and increases the likelihood of missing a shipping window.  A good LTL provider can bring much-needed consistency to the process.  Once you’ve established the day for delivery, and delivery timeframe, they should be able to work within those constraints to deliver the goods on time, every time.

3 – Strong retailer relationships

While a retailer or other outlet can accept goods from any shipping company, in theory, they’re going to be happier working with companies they’re already familiar with.  This is one of the biggest benefits from working with a major refrigerated LTL freight service.  They already have industry contacts and networking in place.

4 – Data sharing

You should never be in the dark about where your loads are!  The best LTL shipping companies make their data available to clients, allowing you to track your shipments, as well as tracking KPIs over time so that you can improve efficiency through analysis.

5 – Consistent, predictable rates

You should always have a good idea what your LTL shipping partner is going to charge, with minimal rate fluctuations.  Large-scale LTL services will be best able to keep their rates predictable, with less likelihood of externalities affecting their pricing.

A&Z Trucking specializes in reefer cargo, with over 20,000 loads shipped annually.  No matter your size or needs, we can ensure your shipments arrive on time.  Contact us to learn more.