If your business deals with perishable goods, refrigerated transport is a key link in your supply chain. However, you cannot pack goods in standard storage containers if you plan to transport them using refrigerated transport. There is a range of storage containers on the market. Below is a guide to three of the most popular options. 

Cryogenic cooling containers

A cryogenic cooling container contains dry ice. Dry ice differs from stand ice as it is made by freezing carbon dioxide rather than water. When the dry ice melts, the carbon dioxide gas evaporates and cools the inside of the storage container. Dry ice is ideal if you are shipping perishable goods long distance, as it can chill products for some weeks.

Portable storage cold storage containers

Portable storage has wheels and can be hooked to the back of a cab or truck. This type of unit uses electrical appliances to cool the atmosphere within the storage unit. The interior of a portable storage container is specially insulated to keep the goods inside at a steady temperature during transportation. The major benefit of portable storage units is that they offer improved energy efficiency when compared to regular refrigeration units as they can operate using the power generated by the cab which is pulling the trailer. 

A portable storage container can also speed up your business operation, as a truck can just hook itself up to the container can drive away, reducing the need for time-consuming loading operations. 

Blast chiller containers

Blast chiller cold storage containers are best suited to the commercial catering or other fresh food preparation industries. It can take many hours for food to cool in a standard refrigerated transport unit, whereas a blast chiller is designed to chill food to freezing temperatures rapidly to keep it fresh. A blast freezer works by blowing super cooled air over the surface of the food for fast cooling. This rapid cooling prevents the growth of any harmful bacteria.

When food is frozen using conventional methods, large water crystals form. The crystals can damage the cells of the preserved food and alter the taste or texture of the food. The rapid cooling caused by a blast chiller promotes the formation of smaller crystals and protects the flavour and texture of the food.

If you would like further information about your options when it comes to choosing a refrigerated transport container, you should contact a professional transport company. A contractor will be able to discuss your needs and recommend the best type of refrigerated container or unit for you.