As temperatures drop during the winter months, spanning from mid-October or November through March, protecting dry freight from freezing becomes a critical challenge for carriers. Known as the “freeze protection season,” this period requires extra planning, specialized equipment, and careful communication to ensure dry goods arrive intact. Partnering with OTR Solutions provides carriers with tools like broker checks and cash flow solutions to navigate these challenges with confidence. Here’s how to keep freight moving safely this winter.
What is Dry Freight?
Dry freight refers to goods that don’t require refrigeration or precise temperature control under normal conditions. These goods are typically non-perishable and transported in standard dry van trailers. However, during the freeze protection season, extreme cold can cause significant damage to specific types of dry freight.
Coffee and Flour
These goods are highly sensitive to freezing, as exposure to extreme cold can lead to clumping, texture changes, or a loss of quality. This can make the products unusable or reduce their value.
Batteries
Freezing temperatures damage the chemical composition of batteries, leading to reduced performance, defects, or even complete failure. This is especially critical for lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries, which require above-freezing temperatures to function properly.
Beverages
Beverages are particularly prone to freezing, which can cause bottles to crack or burst. This not only leads to significant product loss but also poses safety concerns during transit.
Pharmaceuticals
Many dry pharmaceuticals, although not typically refrigerated, require consistent above-freezing temperatures to maintain their efficacy. Exposure to freezing conditions can degrade the active ingredients, rendering the medication ineffective.
Chemicals, Paints, and Glues
These goods often lose their functionality if frozen. Paints and glues can harden, and chemicals can separate or degrade, making proper temperature control vital during transportation.
Freeze Protection Methods for Dry Freight
Protecting dry freight during the winter months often involves more than just using a reefer trailer. There are a variety of methods to prevent freezing and ensure goods remain in optimal condition.
Heated Trailers
Heated trailers provide a controlled environment to protect freeze-sensitive goods during transit. These options are ideal for less-than-truckload (LTL) freight where full reefer capacity isn’t required.
Pallet Covers and Insulated Blankets
Pallet covers and blankets are cost-effective solutions for providing extra insulation for dry freight. They help regulate the temperature of goods during short trips.
Styrofoam Coolers for Small Shipments
Insulated containers, such as Styrofoam coolers, are a practical solution for small loads. They offer reliable temperature regulation for shipments that do not fill an entire trailer.
Reefer Trailers for Full Truckloads
Reefer trailers are the most reliable option for full truckloads of freeze-sensitive freight. Their refrigeration units can maintain precise temperatures, preventing goods from freezing regardless of external conditions.
The Cost of Protecting Dry Freight
Freeze protection comes with additional costs, but it also opens opportunities for carriers to maximize revenue. Here are the key factors that influence costs during the freeze protection season.
Higher Equipment Costs
Running reefer trailers involves increased operating expenses, including fuel, maintenance, and refrigeration system upkeep.
Increased Fuel Consumption
Reefer trailers require continuous fuel to maintain temperature, leading to higher fuel costs. Efficient route planning can help mitigate these expenses.
Limited Reefer Trailer Availability
Reefer demand often exceeds supply in the winter, leading to higher rates for carriers. This creates opportunities to negotiate better freight rates, particularly in colder regions with high demand.
Protecting Your Freight—and Your Business
Successfully transporting freeze-sensitive dry freight requires preparation, communication, and proper documentation. Follow these steps to safeguard your freight and your operations.
Check Cargo Liability Coverage
Ensure your cargo insurance policy covers the specific type of cargo you’ll be transporting. This protects your business from financial risks in the event of damage caused by freezing during transit.
Inspect Reefer Trailers Regularly
Regular inspections ensure reefer trailers operate reliably throughout the freeze protection season. Maintain detailed records of all inspections for at least 12 months in case of claims.
Communicate with Brokers
Confirm specific temperature requirements for each shipment with brokers. OTR Solutions’ 24/7 broker checks help you verify that your partners are trustworthy and reliable.
Seizing Opportunities During Freeze Protection Season
Freeze protection season presents unique challenges but also offers carriers opportunities to increase revenue. Here’s how to capitalize on these opportunities.
Leverage Reefer Trailer Demand
During freeze protection season, reefer trailers are in high demand, often exceeding supply. This allows carriers to negotiate higher freight rates for their specialized services.
Maintain Well-Prepared Equipment
A well-maintained reefer trailer provides reliability and confidence, making you a preferred carrier for high-value freeze-sensitive loads. Regular maintenance ensures equipment is ready for peak demand.
How OTR Solutions Supports Your Business
OTR Solutions offers a range of tools and services designed to help you thrive during freeze protection season. These solutions ensure your operations run smoothly while maximizing your profitability.
24/7 Broker Checks
Use the OTR Mobile App to perform broker checks anytime, ensuring you only work with trustworthy and reputable brokers. This reduces risks and keeps your business protected from unreliable partners, allowing you to focus on securing premium freight opportunities.
Flexible Factoring Services
Freeze protection season often comes with higher operating costs, but OTR’s factoring services ensure steady cash flow. With fast invoice payments, you can avoid delays and cover expenses like fuel and maintenance, giving you the flexibility to stay focused on hauling your next load.
OTR Fuel Card
Save on fuel costs with the OTR Fuel Card, offering discounts at thousands of fueling stations nationwide. This card is tailored to help carriers manage one of their largest expenses, ensuring you keep your bottom line strong during freeze protection season.
OTR Mobile App
The OTR Mobile App puts powerful tools at your fingertips, from broker checks to document uploads and invoice tracking. Stay organized, save time, and manage your operations seamlessly, no matter where you are.
OTR Fuel Finder
Locate the best fuel prices along your route with the OTR Fuel Finder. This tool helps you plan efficient fueling stops, reducing costs while ensuring your reefer trailer stays powered and ready to protect freeze-sensitive freight.
Dedicated Operations Team
OTR Solutions provides a Dedicated Operations Team that’s ready to support your business. Whether you need assistance with payments or broker questions, this team ensures you have expert guidance to keep your operations running smoothly year-round.
Preparing for the Next Freeze Protection Season
Wrap up the current season by evaluating your operations and planning for next year.
Review Expenses
Analyze fuel, maintenance, and insurance costs to identify opportunities to reduce expenses and optimize your budget for the next freeze protection season.
Upgrade Equipment
Invest in advanced tools like temperature sensors or newer reefer trailers to ensure reliability and efficiency in future seasons.
Strengthen Broker Relationships
Build partnerships with brokers who consistently provide quality freeze-sensitive loads. Use OTR Solutions to identify and connect with trusted partners.
Partner with OTR Solutions This Winter
Freeze protection season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right equipment, strategic planning, and support from OTR Solutions, you can keep dry freight safe and your business thriving. From broker checks to finding fuel, OTR provides the tools you need to succeed.
Take the next step today—contact OTR Solutions and protect your business this winter!