How to Transport Fresh Fish
Joe Dickman | June 4th, 2024
Transporting fresh fish is a task that demands meticulous attention to detail to maintain quality and freshness. Whether you’re a supplier, a caterer, or otherwise involved in any part of the seafood supply chain, understanding the best practices for transporting fish is crucial. The right refrigerated truck or van plays a pivotal role in this process. Here’s what you need to know:
Choose the Right Vehicle:
The first step is selecting an appropriate transport vehicle. A refrigerated truck is ideal for larger shipments, while a refrigerated van can be perfect for smaller deliveries. The key is to use a vehicle that maintains a consistently cold temperature, as fluctuations can rapidly degrade the quality of the fish.
Maintain Optimal Temperature:
Fish should be kept at a temperature close to freezing, typically around 0°C (32°F). This helps slow down bacterial growth and keeps the fish fresh during transit. Refrigeration units in reefer trucks are designed to maintain this precise temperature.
Use Proper Packaging:
The fish should be appropriately packed before being placed in the vehicle. Typically, it’s packed in insulated boxes with gel ice packs or flaked ice to keep it cool. Ensure the packaging is leak-proof to avoid any water damage inside the vehicle.
Avoid Cross-Contamination:
Ensure the fish is transported separately from other goods, especially those that could cause contamination from strong odors or bacteria. Cross-contamination can affect the quality and safety of the fish.
Regular Cleaning and Sanitization:
Cleanliness is paramount in the transportation of fresh fish. The interior of the refrigerated truck or van should be regularly cleaned and sanitized to prevent any bacterial build-up and to maintain hygiene standards.
Quick and Efficient Delivery:
Time is of the essence in the transportation of fresh fish. Plan routes efficiently to ensure the quickest possible delivery to maintain freshness.
Looking for a Reliable Refrigerated Transport Solution?
Emerald Transportation Solutions has got you covered if you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient refrigerated van for sale. Our range of reefer trucks and vans is specifically designed to cater to the delicate needs of seafood transportation, ensuring your fish arrives as fresh as it was when it left the water. Contact us today to explore our options and find the perfect fit for your seafood transport needs.
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What does under DOT mean?
Questions regarding DOT requirements come up often. 10,000 lbs GVW (gross vehicle weight) and over are commercial vehicles that fall under the Department of Transportation regulatory requirements.
What is the difference between GVW and payload?
GVW or Gross Vehicle Weight is the entire weight of the vehicle including the payload. The payload weight represents the amount of cargo you are hauling.
What is a self-powered unit and a vehicle-powered unit?
A self-powered unit has its own fuel source and will run independent of the truck. This is the heaviest and most expensive option. While vehicle-powered units run off the engine via a compressor mounted on the engine. These are less expensive and lighter in weight but you must run the truck or plug the electric standby into shore power.
What does K-factor mean and why is that important?
K-factor is a term that stands for the overall insulating value of the container (truck body). Quite simply the lower the K-factor the better the truck body will be able to maintain a given temperature and require less energy to do so.
How much lighter is a Poly Van vs a US spec body?
Poly Van bodies are very light. On average we estimate we are 75-150 lbs per foot lighter than a traditional sheet and post foamed in place body. These weight savings translates to less fuel burn and less CO2 emissions, along with added payload, the most important benefit.
