Showing the Value of Proactive Cold Chain Analytics

Introduction

In the fast-paced world of cold chain logistics, having the right technological tools is crucial to maintaining the integrity of temperature-sensitive products. In a recent episode of “Running on Ice,” hosted by Mariio Connell, Travis Ross, a senior sales engineer at EO, demonstrated how proactive cold chain analytics can significantly improve operations by identifying exceptions before they escalate into major issues.

During the show, Travis emphasized the importance of a comprehensive reporting structure that exhaustively explores exceptions in temperature control and equipment functionality. By utilizing a platform like CEMP (Cold Chain Efficiency Management Platform), operators can see critical data points displayed in a user-friendly dashboard, allowing them to quickly identify and address operational issues.

Dashboard Overview

Operators can log into the application and immediately see their cold chain compliance score, which reflects their adherence to established temperature thresholds. The scoring includes two main components: data availability through telematics and temperature compliance. For instance, a facility might have a cold chain compliance score of 95%, indicating that it meets regulatory standards most of the time. However, if anomalies occur, operators can quickly identify them, as outlined in the dashboard.

If issues arise, such as missing route coverage for a specific day, users can drill down further into the information to unveil the reasons behind the discrepancies. This capability allows operators to proactively manage cold chain logistics, ensuring immediate preventative or corrective actions can be taken.

Addressing Equipment Failures

One of the key insights shared was about monitoring reefer units (refrigerated trailers) during transportation. For example, if a reefer unit is recorded as off for an extensive period during transit, this can lead to significant product loss or compromise. Understanding the equipment's performance, including issues like prolonged defrost events or improper temperature settings, can allow a transportation manager to proactively reach out to drivers or service departments to mitigate any potential fallout.

Temperature Tracking and Compliance

Temperature tracking is another critical feature that EO’s CEMP offers. By visualizing temperature data against set points, users can catch anomalies in real-time. Utilizing specific thresholds ensures products remain within safe temperature ranges. If products are cold but not too cold, operations can take corrective actions—like checking the trailer or making adjustments—to prevent further temperature excursions that could damage pharmaceuticals or sensitive food products.

Documentation for Quality Assurance

Beyond operational insights, CEMP also aids quality assurance teams and compliance professionals. The platform allows users to add feedback to delivery reports and attach relevant documentation, forming a robust record that can be invaluable during audits. This feature enables easy retrieval of historical data, facilitating communication with auditors and streamlining audits overall.

Conclusion

The ability to utilize proactive analytics in cold chain logistics not only enhances operational efficiency but also mitigates risks associated with temperature-sensitive freight. By leveraging actionable data, companies can act quickly on exceptions to uphold product integrity, ensuring that their cold chain remains intact from origin to destination.

Keywords

Cold Chain
CEMP (Cold Chain Efficiency Management Platform)
Temperature Compliance
Analytics
Reefer Units
Reporting Structure
Documentation
Quality Assurance

FAQ

What is CEMP?
CEMP stands for Cold Chain Efficiency Management Platform, a tool designed to improve cold chain operations by providing actionable insights into temperature compliance and equipment performance.

How does proactive analytics benefit cold chain logistics?
Proactive analytics allow operators to identify exceptions and address issues before they escalate, reducing the risk of compromised products and improving overall operational efficiency.

What types of data can users monitor with CEMP?
Users can monitor data related to temperature compliance, equipment functionality, route coverage, and historical performance indicators.

How does CEMP facilitate compliance with audits?
CEMP allows users to document feedback and attach relevant information to delivery reports, creating an accessible archive of historical data that aids auditors in assessing compliance.

Why is temperature tracking important in cold chain operations?
Temperature tracking is crucial because it helps ensure that temperature-sensitive products are kept within safe limits during transit, reducing the risk of product spoilage or degradation.