Navigating the future of cold chain logistics

2025 is set to bring major changes for the cold supply chain, driven by advancements in technology, sustainability, evolving market needs, and regulatory control. These changes are reshaping how we pack, handle, transport and store perishable goods to ensure we continue to meet customer demand while maintaining product quality, reducing waste, and adhering to increasingly strict regulations.

We talk to Paul Evans, Managing Director of Blacksmith Freight, who has over 20 years’ experience in the industry, to find out more about what the changes mean for the cold supply chain, and how perishable suppliers can improve overall operational efficiency in this highly regulated industry.

Q: What are the challenges for the supply chain when transporting temperature-sensitive goods?

IATA has updated its Perishable Cargo Regulations (PCR) which sets out more stringent regulations to help preserve the quality and value of perishable goods.  This has been driven by increasing demand for fresh, appealing and affordable food, as well as the growing need to protect the integrity of temperature-sensitive goods throughout their journey.

Temperature preservation is not just about keeping the products cold; but about maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the shipment, even across different microclimates and humidity levels.

The challenge for logistics teams is finding the balance between transporting goods quickly and safely while keeping energy consumption and costs under control.

Q: How can suppliers of perishables reduce the risk of damage caused by improper handling or insufficient packaging?

Roughly 1.3 billion tonnes of food is wasted globally each year, and a substantial portion of that loss occurs during transport due to inadequate temperature control, mishandling, or delays. This waste can be significantly decreased with better packaging and improved handling practices.

The first is the use of appropriate packaging, using shock-absorbing materials like foam inserts or bubble wrap that reduces impact while the products are in transit. Packaging should include thermal insulation to protect products against any temperature variations. Some perishables may also benefit from ventilation to prevent ethylene buildup.

There is demand for more sustainable packaging as it appeals to the increasing number of eco-friendly customers. However, the challenge is balancing sustainable packaging with cost and durability as some advanced materials are more expensive.

Air cushions provide extra protection for goods in transit and are often used to fill gaps between perishable items in packages. These are typically made from recyclable or biodegradable materials, such as HDPE film, making them eco-friendly while also providing added stability against excessive external pressure.

Having a clear labelling process with detailed information about the contents helps ensure proper handling and care during transportation. IATA use a standardised label specifically for perishables which is widely recognised to make sure goods are handled using the right guidelines.

Q: How can technological advancements assist the cold supply chain in achieving compliance?

Advancements in technology play a critical role in helping the cold supply chain meet compliance by improving visibility, control, and efficiency.

The use of smart sensors and IoT technology allows for continuous, real-time monitoring of temperature throughout the entire supply chain. They collect temperature data at frequent intervals throughout the journey and send it to a centralised monitoring platform. This detailed data helps businesses stay compliant and make trail audits much smoother.

Blockchain technology is being used to provide secure and transparent records throughout every step in the cold chain. By documenting temperature and handling conditions along with timestamps, blockchain ensures that all parties in the supply chain – from producers to consumers – can access verified and unchangeable records, reinforcing compliance and increasing trust.

Q: What disruptions are impacting the perishable supply chain?

Extreme weather events such as heatwaves, storms, and cold snaps, are still causing major disruptions to supply chains. These weather issues lead to delays and can really affect the quality of temperature-sensitive goods. For perishable items, such as fresh produce, meat, and pharmaceuticals, even a small shift in temperature can cause spoilage, reduce shelf life and result in significant losses. On top of that, the rising cost of fuel and refrigerated transport is adding even more pressure.

With stricter regulations and the growing demand for sustainable, fresh products, businesses must adopt new technologies, enhance packaging solutions, and implement more robust monitoring practices. Being able to navigate these successfully will be key to meeting both market demands and regulatory requirements, ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of perishable goods worldwide.

If your business wants to transport or store perishable logistics from anywhere in the world, contact us for a no-obligation quote.