In the world of logistics, maintaining the quality of perishable goods during transit is crucial. One often overlooked yet vital factor in achieving this goal is managing the relative humidity in refrigerated containers. When transporting goods like fresh produce, dairy, meat, and pharmaceuticals, improper humidity levels can lead to spoilage, reduced shelf life, and financial losses. Therefore, understanding and controlling the humidity levels within these containers is essential for anyone involved in the cold chain industry. Here’s what you need to know when you’re looking for a refrigerated shipping container for sale.
Avoiding Moisture-Related Issues
Relative humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air compared to the maximum amount the air can hold at a given temperature. For perishable goods, maintaining the correct relative humidity is as important as temperature control. According to Kuehne + Nagel, a leading logistics provider, the standard relative humidity for refrigerated containers is between 60% and 85%. When the humidity falls outside this range, it can cause various problems. Low humidity levels may lead to dehydration and weight loss in products, while high humidity can encourage mold growth and spoilage.
Reducing Waste
Each product has its own ideal humidity range, which makes understanding and adjusting the humidity levels paramount. For instance, most fruits and vegetables require a higher humidity to stay fresh as they are prone to losing water quickly. Incorporating hygrometers and advanced monitoring systems in refrigerated units allows logistical companies to maintain precise humidity levels constantly. By doing so, these companies ensure the longevity and quality of the goods being transported, satisfying customers and reducing waste.
Improving Long-Haul Logistics
Effective humidity management also plays a critical role when goods need to be transported over long distances or stored for extended periods. With the rise of globalization, there is an increasing demand for importing and exporting perishable goods across continents. In these cases, consistent control over both temperature and humidity helps in mitigating the risks associated with long-haul logistics. This control is achieved through modern technology that provides real-time feedback and adjustments, ensuring that goods arrive in optimal condition.
Relative humidity is a key factor in the success of cold chain logistics. By maintaining the standard relative humidity range, companies can prevent spoilage, ensure product quality, and reduce waste. As logistics continue to grow and evolve, embracing technology to monitor and control humidity is an investment that pays off, ensuring the freshest products reach their destinations. Whether you’re a logistics provider or a business reliant on these services, understanding the importance of humidity is vital to your success. Reach out to our team at Integrated Equipment Sales when you’re looking for a shipping container for sale.
