You need refrigerated storage suited to your unique needs. Temperature-controlled warehouses offer storage for goods on the ground, while transport units can also be temperature controlled to preserve perishable goods in transit from one facility to the other.
So how do you figure out what you need, specifically? If you need to transport meats, for instance, you would consider the type of meat and the volume. Large volumes require more powerful refrigeration units. Companies that offer storage facilities will usually provide information regarding the quality and capacity of their facilities. You can compare the prices and make an educated decision about the facility. However, the greatest consideration should be for the facility that caters for your refrigeration needs perfectly regardless of how much it costs. This will help to minimize other costs if the commodities are not properly refrigerated.
Here are some things to consider when choosing refrigerated storage services:
- Location. Is the service close enough to your business to allow for fast delivery, which will ensure your goods stay fresh?
- Price vs. quality. As mentioned above, you need find the best provider available in your area for the money. Making a realistic budget ahead of time is a great way to prepare.
- Security. Will you feel comfortable leaving your goods in the storage units of the company you choose? Make sure they have appropriate security measures in place.
- Space. Does the vendor have an appropriate amount of space available for the contents you intend to store there? Do the math up front so you don’t realize too late that a few months down the line, the facility will no longer fit your needs.
- Humidity. Should be controlled at about 50%.
The best way to ensure all these are in order is to actually visit the facility. Don’t rely on the word of its management. It is better to be safe than sorry later on when you realize that what was advertized is not available or is substandard. Before you sign the contract awarding the tender to a certain service provider, read the terms and conditions very carefully to avoid unfavorable clauses and hidden charges.
There are many facilities you can utilize for refrigerated storage. The only suitable facility for you may be one that’s located very near your manufacturing plant or other base of operations. Special storage containers make this possible in most places. You can decide to lease or buy your own container. Containers come in various shapes and sizes that will suit your specific needs. Some refrigerated storage providers offer cold storage facilities as well as inspection, and import and export of goods.
Containers are suitable for smaller-sized cargo, but you can use refrigerated warehouses if you have massive cargo to store. Companies can offer you a preexisting warehouse, or they can build a new one especially for you. If you have the resources, erecting your own storage warehouse is preferable, as you can customize it to fit your needs exactly as you want it. If you do choose to erect your own, you’ll want to look for the most effective refrigeration that’s at an appropriate, economical price for your business and your budget. Consider your storage needs in one month, six months, one year, two years, and five years. Do you really know exactly what they’ll be? You may want to budget extra space for possible expansion during the building process, because it will be more difficult to renovate your facility down the line than to build it large enough to begin with.