Produce Logistics
Produce with a Side of Shipping
We know produce doesn’t stop at finding the right grower, in fact it’s only the beginning. That is why we have a dedicated logistics team that can help you with delivered programs and consolidation. In addition to shipping, we also bring in-market support to our Green Light product line.
This is the Fresh Avenue advantage, full logistics and customer support from one of the most responsive, reliable teams in the industry!
FAQ
About Logistics for Fresh Produce
How is produce transported?
What are the main challenging in maintaining produce (cold chain) logistics?
• Temperature control: ensuring consistent temperature throughout the supply chain
• Equipment reliability: dependence on refrigeration units and transport vehicles that must function properly.
• Monitoring and compliance: tracking temperature and humidity levels, and adhereing to regulatory standards.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: Delays due to weather, traffic, or equipment failure can compromise product integrity.
• Cost Management: High costs associated with refrigerated transport and storage facilities.
• Training and Expertise: Need for skilled personnel to manage and monitor cold chain processes.
• Packaging: Ensuring proper insulation and protection of products during transport.
• Inventory Management: Balancing supply and demand to minimize waste and spoilage.
• Data Management: Implementing effective systems for real-time monitoring and reporting.
• Global Variability: Navigating different regulations and standards in various regions.
How does temperature fluctuation affect the quality of fresh produce?
• Microbial Growth: Increased temperatures can promote the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, leading to spoilage and food safety concerns.
• Enzymatic Reactions: Higher temperatures can accelerate enzymatic activity, resulting in faster deterioration of texture, flavor, and nutritional value.
• Moisture Loss: Fluctuating temperatures can cause condensation, leading to moisture loss or excess humidity, both of which can affect product quality.
• Texture Changes: Fruits and vegetables may become mushy or lose crispness with improper temperature control.
• Flavor Degradation: Temperature variations can alter the chemical composition of food, impacting its taste and aroma.
• Shelf Life Reduction: Frequent temperature shifts can shorten the shelf life of perishable items, leading to increased waste.
• Color Changes: Temperature fluctuations can cause discoloration in fruits, vegetables, and meats, affecting their visual appeal.
• Freezing Damage: If temperatures drop too low, it can lead to freezer burn or cellular damage in sensitive products.
Overall, maintaining a stable temperature is crucial for preserving the quality and safety of perishable goods.
How are produce shipments planned?
What type of produce shipments does Fresh Avenue handle?
Can other refrigerated items be shipped with produce? Why is that done?
Are there quality checks on the produce?
What is best practice for produce once it has been delivered?
What is the most sustainable way to ship wholesale produce?
• Local Sourcing: Prioritizing local farms and suppliers reduces transportation distances, thus lowering carbon emissions associated with shipping.
• Efficient Transportation: Using optimized routes to minimize fuel consumption can significantly reduce the carbon footprint.
• Cold Chain Management: Maintaining a proper cold chain ensures that produce remains fresh, reducing spoilage and waste.
• Consolidation: Combining shipments from multiple suppliers into a single delivery can maximize truckload capacity and reduce the number of trips needed.
• Collaborative Logistics: Partnering with other businesses for shared transportation resources can lead to more efficient logistics and reduced overall emissions.
Is fresh produce quality impacted by the way it is shipped?
What role does technology play in modern logistics and supply chain management?
• Automation: Automated systems streamline various processes, including inventory management, order processing, and warehouse operations. This reduces human error and increases speed.
• Tracking and Visibility: GPS and RFID technologies enable real-time tracking of shipments and inventory. This transparency allows companies to monitor the movement of goods, manage delays, and improve customer service.
• Data Analytics: Advanced analytics tools help businesses analyze large volumes of data to identify trends, optimize routes, and predict demand. This leads to better decision-making and resource allocation.
• Supply Chain Management Software: Specialized software platforms facilitate communication and collaboration across the supply chain, providing tools for planning, forecasting, and performance monitoring.
• Internet of Things (IoT): IoT devices collect and transmit data from various points in the supply chain, improving monitoring and control over inventory, equipment, and environmental conditions (such as temperature for perishables).
• Mobile Technology: Mobile apps and devices enable real-time communication and data access for employees in the field, enhancing coordination and responsiveness.
• Sustainability Solutions: Technology helps companies track and manage their environmental impact, facilitating the adoption of sustainable practices within logistics and supply chain operations.
What is logistics integration?
Integrated logistics means combining transportation, logistics, and warehousing. Fresh Avenue’s logistics programs combines all of these elements with our responsive service.
Learn more about each areas of our business
Fresh Produce
Growing & Sourcing
Consolidation
Produce & Refrigerated Freight
Delivered Programs
Fully Managed Logistics
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Delivered Programs
Consolidation
In-Market Support