Freeze Protection Services

What Is Included in Freeze Protection Services?

As with regulations, different carriers provide different services within “Freeze Protection.” They often use various methods to protect your cargo from low temperatures. The methods used often reflect the carrier, product, and terminal requirements. Depending on what you’re shipping, the carrier you choose will determine what possible temperature protection services are offered for your freight shipment.

Freeze protection services can include various features, such as protective pallet blankets, heated trailers, and expediting time-sensitive shipments. Additionally, special handling procedures are often offered by some carriers, and these include:

• Selecting sheltered areas to hold freezable freight during severe weather
• Labeling loads and Bills of Lading clearly to identify freezable goods easily
• Monitoring weather forecasts throughout transit using AccuWeather and real-time temperature monitoring. 
• Sticking to carrier guidelines for protecting goods while in transit and over weekends
• Utilizing warm rooms when needed

And apart from the services above, the freight industry also takes the following measures in a variety of circumstances:

Temperature-Controlled Containers: Using refrigerated/insulated containers to maintain specific temperatures is expected in the industry. The containers have built-in temperature controls to protect freight from damage and spoiling. 

Freeze Protection Planning: Sometimes, companies are forced to think outside the box regarding Freeze protection planning. When logistics get complicated during the winter months, companies assess the details and specific needs of the freight and design customized solutions to prevent freezing conditions. 

Heated Transportation: This method is essential for keeping certain goods above freezing temperatures. Heated trucks and trailers help maintain the appropriate temperatures during transportation. 

Utilizing Heating Devices/Insulation Materials: Sometimes freight requires more extensive and direct heating than a heated trailer. In these cases, freight may need direct contact with thermal blankets, liners, and wraps. Additional protection helps to minimize likely temperature fluctuations. Heating pads and heaters are also commonly utilized.

Emergency Response Plans: These plans are designed to account for emergencies while your freight is in transit. These plans help prevent damage and help safeguard the cargo. 

Route Optimization: 3PLs optimize routes, especially during winter, to avoid delays and damage. They may even choose to avoid regions with freezing weather altogether.

Best Practices

Typically, freeze protection services are only for commodities with a freezing point of 32 degrees or lower and items that require careful temperature control, such as foods, drinks, and medications. When available, Selecting expedited shipping options can help increase your shipment’s chance of arriving intact and damage-free by decreasing the time your cargo is exposed to the cold.

Always check, double-check, and triple-check that your Bill of Lading (BOL) is marked with freeze protection services, and make sure all labels on your packaged freight are easy to read and protected from exposure to harsh elements.

Package your shipment properly and thoroughly to help ensure it maintains the right temperature and is protected. Having your shipment palletized, crated, or appropriately boxed reduces the risk of damage or loss and helps enhance the freeze protection services you choose. 

For more on packaging your freight, visit our Guide to Freight Packaging. Remember, most carriers offer freeze protection during October and May. Additionally, carriers reserve the right to suspend freeze protection services during times of extreme cold, such as when temperatures go below 10 degrees.

Going Beyond Freeze Protection

Like many busy small business owners and shippers, your focus is on growing your business and continuing to provide products to your customers. Rely on experts like FreightCenter to keep your cargo moving all year and identify which accessorials and additional services your freight may need. Leverage our extensive network of vetted carriers to secure discounted rates for all your shipping needs. Keep your products shipping efficiently and securely year-round! Get a free quote or speak with one of our logistics experts by calling 800-716-7608.

If the steps above sound like a lot to remember, have no fear! FreightCenter is here! Our team of experts is here to help guide you along every step of your shipment journey. Your FreightCenter agent will provide and guide you in filling out the proper documentation, including the bill of lading, packing list, commercial invoices, and required permits and certifications. It is essential to provide accurate information to your FreightCenter agent, such as accurate descriptions, quantities, and values in the documentation. Do not stress over remembering the small details; we will ensure your package is shipment ready!