Have you ever wondered how you can get non-seasonal fruits and vegetables year-round?
How is it we can get cucumbers in the middle of winter or strawberries in late fall?
It’s easy to take for granted running into your local supermarket to pick up produce that’s either not in season or not native to your region. No matter the supermarket, chances are strong that they rely on a chain of events, let’s call it “logistics”, to get produce on their shelves.
Farms in Mexico, California and Florida provide the majority of our country’s fruits and vegetables. Distributors pack their temperature controlled warehouses full of their produce so it will be ready to send out to retailers, i.e. supermarkets.
This is where insulated storage containers come in to the picture.
Reefer containers are essentially large portable refrigerators that make it possible for fruits and vegetables to get to supermarkets at the exact level of ripeness desired.
Most perishable goods require a very specific temperature to preserve their quality during transport.
These are a great fit for many businesses and trades. From the food industry, restaurant industry, and all the way to the pharmaceutical industry, these insulated storage containers are ideal for storing perishable items that need to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations.
Refrigerated containers or ‘reefers’ come in different lengths and are electric powered. Reefer containers have different temperature modes and ventilation systems. They can maintain a consistent temperature, fluctuate temperature during travel, or even ‘warm-up’ goods when required. Forced circulation of cool air prevents chilled products from ripening too quickly, ensuring a longer shelf-life and maintaining the market value. The ventilation system allows for fresh air to circulate within the container to remove unwanted gases and moisture.
There are also insulated containers, which are different from refrigerated storage containers. Insulated containers are modified steel shipping containers. They are firmly insulated and can be equipped with electricity. They are used for storing goods that don’t require a controlled temperature, just a steady one. Insulated shipping containers maintain a moderate temperature. Working like a cooler, they do not allow for the exchange of air. Because these containers are considered air-tight they help to prevent decay of the goods stored.
Pac-Van has reefers and insulated storage containers available in select office locations. Learn more about our reefer containers or click here to contact your local branch location for availability.
