Cold chain logistics, does it ring any bells? Obviously, the term cold chain logistics is pretty specific. Those of you who are reading this, but do not find themselves employed in the transportation industry will hardly be able to come up with a definition of what this expression really means. However, we have good news as well. We are going to take a look at cold chain logistics today. Our goal is to bring you closer to the essence of what it is. By the time we are done, you will be able to explain to your friends and family, in an effortless yet understanding way, the basics of cold chain logistics, why it was created and what the value that it brings to the humankind. Therefore, bear with us and help us spread the knowledge of this vast-employed, but narrowly-understood science, technology, and process.
What does cold chain logistics really mean?
The first thing that we need to do today is to explain to you what the expression cold chain logistics means. But before we move on, let us ask you to do one thing. On top of your head, could you try and form a definition of what our topic of today means? No need to tell it to anyone. Feel free to keep it to yourself. That is going to help you understand how obscure this subject may be. And yet, all of us witness it daily.
The term cold chain logistics, or cold chain services, represents the combination of technology, process, and science that ensures that we, the people, can have fresh and healthy food on our tables daily. Still, why is it called exactly like that? From the moment the food is picked from a tree or meat is ready for processing, the cold chain process begins.
Firstly, we need to make sure that food does not get spoilt. That is the step one in this process. Therefore, all the fruit, vegetables, and meat are stored under strictly controlled conditions. After it is processed entirely or up to a certain point, it needs to be transported to the next processing facility or to the shop. That is the moment when transportation, or the chain component, enters the picture.
Why do we say that cold chain logistics is a science, technology, and process all at once?
We have already partially answered this question. However, now feels like the best time to take a more in-depth look at the three most important characteristics of cold chain logistics and its difference to keeping products in warehouses KSA:
- Science behind it
- Technology that it inspires us to create
- And the process that keeps on improving
The science behind the cold chain logistics
When it comes to the science behind the whole aspect of the process that we are talking about, it is important to point out where we apply it.
Once we have picked the fruits from a tree, for example, we need to make sure that it reaches the buyer fresh. To do that, it is essential to understand what the fruit is made from in a chemical sense. Therefore, it is important to come up with a way to preserve these products. Otherwise, they could end up spoilt while waiting for customs clearance KSA. That is when science enters the picture.
It is thanks to the application of scientific means that we can ensure that the food that we eat is always safe and fresh when it reaches the consumer.
The technology that it inspires us to create
In terms of technology, we are talking about the systems that we use to keep the product fresh.
Previously, we were talking about what we need to do to preserve the product in its natural state. Now, we are talking about the means that we use to keep it that way. Given the fact that OPEX is something that all companies look to cut on, it is vital to come up with more energy-efficient products continuously. Therefore, this would represent the way that cold chain logistics drives innovation.
The process improvement
Speaking about the cold chain logistics process, we need to take a look at the big picture.
In fact, this is something that we have been talking about throughout this article. From the moment a product is picked from the garden or created in a factory, we need to transport it, store it, prepare it for stocking and ultimately to sell it. As you can see, we are talking about the process here.
Now, you need to know that this process does not apply to perishable goods only. For example, hiring international movers Jeddah to help you relocate a piece of art is very similar. Fine art requires controlled conditions for storing. While we are not going to be relocating it in the same type of cargo truck in which we would place apples, we still need to come to pick it up, protect it for transportation, transport it and ultimately unpack it and put it on display in your new home.
As you have seen, we have just explained the process of cold chain logistics.
Conclusion
Cold chain logistics is a term that few people unemployed in logistics would know how to explain. However, once you scratch the surface, understanding what it is is a pretty sharp learning curve.
Today, we have shared with you some of the characteristics of it. We have explained to you why we regard it as a process, science, and technology. Additionally, we have given you examples of each and every one of them. Hopefully, you will be able to pass the knowledge on easily.
