As the demand for fresh food grows, producers have been forced to become selective regarding the logistics companies they hire to deliver fresh produce to consumers. Customers no longer want to settle for the next best delivery service, which has led to stiff competition in the refrigerated delivery segment. Consequently, logistics companies offering refrigerated delivery services have to invest heavily to meet client needs. This article highlights the key trends affecting refrigerated delivery services and how logistics companies can cope.

Last-Mile Delivery

Unlike a few years ago when fresh produce was delivered at a centralised location for pickup, the modern consumer prefers orders being delivered at their doorstep. However, it is not easy for logistics companies that only rely on refrigerated trucks for deliveries. The vehicles are expensive to maintain, and restrictions might not allow them access to residential areas.

A better strategy is to use refrigerated trucks to deliver fresh produce to designated warehouses. Vans, motorcycles, or bicycles can then be used to make doorstep deliveries. Besides, logistics companies can collaborate with 3rd parties for last-mile deliveries.

Increased Stopovers

Since last-mile delivery has become the norm in logistics, the number of stopovers that drivers have to make has increased significantly. Consequently, the frequency of opening and closing refrigerated compartments in trucks has increased. Therefore, fresh produce is more likely to go bad before reaching a destination, especially in regions that experience high temperatures. It can be attributed to the fact that warm air enters a refrigerated truck every time delivery personnel open the doors.

A better approach for tackling the issue is to equip delivery trucks with PVC strip curtains. The curtains are temperature resistant and sturdy, which keeps warm air out.

Increase in Fuel Consumption

An engine powers the chillers in a refrigerated truck. Besides, refrigerated trucks are heavier than standard trucks. Therefore, you begin to understand why fuel efficiency is critical in refrigerated delivery services. While there is little you can do to reduce the weight of a refrigerated truck, you can make modifications to improve fuel efficiency.

For example, streamlining refrigerated trucks during manufacture is arguably the most practical way of enhancing fuel efficiency. Notably, a streamlined vehicle experiences less wind drag; therefore, the engine does not have to work hard. Also, fitting windbreakers on your truck reduces drag and enhances fuel efficiency. The management of drag goes a long way in reducing the operational costs of a refrigerated delivery service provider.

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