Do you intend to transport perishable products such as vegetables, meats or pharmaceuticals? If you do, you should consider the services of refrigerated transport companies. Most people have a difficult time finding a refrigerated transport company that understands their needs. Read this extract for a guide on how to interview your refrigerated transport company.  

What Is Your Specialisation? 

If possible, you should work with a company that transports similar products. It ensures they understand how to prepare and handle the product during transport. Besides, the company will know how to regulate temperatures during transport. It is also a guarantee that your products will not get contaminated during transport. For instance, trucks used to transport chemicals could have elements that could contaminate your agricultural products.

You should also assess the scope of the company's operation. For instance, some companies will provide countrywide services, while others will operate within your state. If you need to transport a lot of products, inquire whether the company has sufficient trucks and personnel.

What Is the Level of Your Staff Training? 

The company should have highly trained and experienced staff. They must know how to prepare and handle goods from your premises to the destination. For instance, when transporting agricultural products, they should conduct an inspection to ascertain the quality of the product. Spoilt or infected produce could damage your whole consignment. The company employees should prepare the refrigeration truck by decontaminating it before transporting your produce. Besides, they must monitor temperatures and conduct regular checks to ensure the product is in good condition.

What Are Your Terms? 

Check the terms of the refrigerated transport company. One of your concerns should be customer obligations. For instance, the company could ask you to ensure that the products are in perfect condition. Besides, the company could ask you to be present or send a representative when inspecting and loading the produce. Your customers should pick products on time and verify the condition at the point of pickup. Inquire whether the company gives guarantees. For instance, will they offer compensation in case some of your produce went bad during transport? Check the services provided by the company. For example, some companies could provide cold storage facilities and overseas shipping services.

How Much Will You Charge? 

Consider companies that have a reasonable pricing strategy. Typically, the company must justify their pricing. For instance, most companies will have a fixed price per kilometre. However, they will charge more if the product you intend to transport requires special handling. 

When looking for a refrigerated transport company, examine the company's specialisation, staff training, terms and charges.