How to Reduce Product Loss in Refrigerated Transportation

Product loss in refrigerated transportation is a direct threat to profitability, customer trust, and brand reputation. For shippers moving dairy, foodservice, produce, or other temperature-sensitive goods, even small breakdowns in cold chain management can lead to spoiled deliveries and rejected loads.

While engine failures often get the blame, they aren’t always the true cause. In reality, many product losses stem from preventable issues related to equipment condition, airflow, and loading practices.

It’s Not Always the Engine

Reefer engine issues are a valid concern, but they’re only part of the picture. In many cases, product loss occurs even when the refrigeration unit appears to be functioning properly.

Common reefer-related issues that can compromise temperature control include:

• Worn trailer door seals and gaskets
• Dirty condenser or evaporator coils
• Clogged oil and air filters
• Blocked produce chutes and floor ducts

When these components aren’t properly maintained, airflow suffers and temperature consistency becomes difficult to maintain, leading to spoilage.

Improving Airflow and Protecting Product in Transit

Trailer design and configuration play a major role in reducing product loss. Poor airflow and unstable loads increase the risk of spoilage and physical damage, especially in multi-stop distribution environments.

TEN Cool’s patented Bumper System was designed to address these challenges head-on. By improving airflow and spacing between pallets, the system supports tighter temperature control while also protecting cargo from shifting and impact. For dairy, grocery, and foodservice operations, this improved airflow has proven critical in reducing product damage and spoilage.

Fleets using the Bumper System have seen fewer rejected loads, improved temperature consistency, and better overall freight protection.

Using Technology to Catch Issues Early

Real-time monitoring tools such as temperature tracking, alerts, and GPS visibility allow teams to intervene before conditions lead to product loss. When paired with proper equipment setup and airflow management, these technologies help prevent minor disruptions from becoming costly failures.

Reefer Fleet Management: Knowing When to Upgrade

Even with best practices in place, refrigerated trailers typically begin to experience more frequent issues after five to seven years. Maintenance costs rise, breakdowns become more disruptive, and the risk of spoiled deliveries increases.

Rather than absorbing the cost and complexity of frequent equipment purchases, many fleets turn to leasing as a more flexible, cost-effective solution.

Leasing for Reliability and Flexibility

With TEN’s operational lease, fleets benefit from:

• Access to newer reefer equipment
• Reduced maintenance costs, with service and repairs covered
• The flexibility to scale capacity up or down based on demand
• 24/7 emergency road service across North America

Leasing helps fleets stay ahead of equipment-related risks while maintaining consistent service levels for customers.

Reducing Product Loss Starts With the Right Partner

Preventing product loss requires more than just reliable refrigeration. It takes thoughtful equipment design, proper loading practices, proactive maintenance, and operational flexibility.

At TEN, we combine all of these elements to help customers protect what matters most. From innovative solutions like our patented Bumper System to flexible leasing and nationwide support, we’re committed to helping fleets reduce spoilage, protect product quality, and deliver with confidence.

Click here to learn more about TEN Cool today.