Control the handovers, not only the set point.
Different crops have different chilling sensitivity, humidity, ventilation and ethylene requirements. Record one agreed protocol for the exact commodity, maturity, pack and route.
1. Agree the product protocol
Record the target condition, permissible range, pre-cooling method, humidity or ventilation needs, ethylene compatibility and escalation limits for the specific lot.
2. Control harvest and field exposure
Coordinate harvest timing, shade, handling and transfer to the packing operation. Avoid unnecessary delay, compression, impact and exposure to heat.
3. Pre-cool where the crop requires it
Remove field heat using a method suitable for the commodity and packaging. Verify product pulp temperature rather than relying only on room or air temperature.
4. Inspect product and packaging
Check condition, cleanliness, pack strength, ventilation openings, labels, lot codes and pallet stability before the shipment is released for loading.
5. Complete the equipment pre-trip check
Confirm cleanliness, odour, drainage, insulation, refrigeration operation, sensors, calibration status and the agreed set points before loading.
6. Protect airflow during loading
Load pre-conditioned product promptly, keep air channels clear, avoid blocking return-air paths and minimise open-door time.
7. Monitor the journey
Place agreed data loggers where they can provide useful evidence, record seal and device numbers, and define who reviews alerts during transit.
8. Inspect and close out at arrival
Record seal condition, logger data, pulp temperature, packaging and product condition. Photograph exceptions and follow the agreed claims and corrective-action process.
Never copy a set point from another commodity. Final carriage settings must come from the agreed product protocol and the responsible logistics and technical parties.
Cairo, Egypt
Malden, Netherlands