Temperature-controlled shipments must meet a wide array of local, state and/or federal regulations. Given the value of many of these shipments, failure is not an option. Specialized CDL drivers, elaborate temperature warning systems and air-ride suspensions all contribute to a successful journey for temperature-controlled shipments.
New Regulations Regarding Food Transportation
Now, refrigerated trucking expertise is more important than ever. In April 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a so-called “final rule,” entitled “Sanitary Transportation of Human and Animal Food.” These specific regulations result in part from the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) signed into law in 2011. After the passage of the FSMA, the FDA began to establish regulations designed to carry out the mandates of the law. The FSMA was the most comprehensive overhaul of America’s food safety system in over a century.
Key Areas Addressed
As the FDA says in its fact sheet related to the new rule, one goal is to address safety risks during transportation related to:
• Food refrigeration
• Cleaning of trucks between loads
• General protection of food
Under the new rule, shippers, loaders and carriers must all adhere to additional FDA requirements that are inteded to keep food safe and free of contamination from production to consumption. In other words, from farm to table. Compliant refrigerated trucking simultaneously protects valuable shipments while maintaining consumer health.
Great Western Transportation can address your need for temperature-controlled shipping across the continental United States and Canada. We’d welcome the opportunity to discuss your specific requirements. Please contact us at your earliest convenience.
