7 Must-Know Tips for Transporting Food Safely Across Borders

Companies transporting food across borders face a lot of pressure to do the job effectively. And that means accounting for everything from temperature controls to vehicle sanitization and documentation when delivering dairy, produce, or other items. Without following strict protocols, companies risk the health and safety of their consumers. Logistics managers must stay on top of their most sensitive shipments, ensuring that they arrive at their destination in optimal condition. 

Keep reading to find the seven must-know tips for transporting food safely across borders.

1. Understand Food Labeling Regulations

Don’t make assumptions when it comes to food labels. Each state or country will have certain details, like allergen warnings or specific codes, that must be included on labels. Without proper labels, food shipments may not be allowed to enter a new country. These errors can slow down the supply chain and, ultimately, cost a company time and money. Particularly for specialized items, including dietary supplements or foods meant to satisfy allergy sensitivities, proper labeling is vital. 

2. Prepare Paperwork in Advance

Transport companies will need everything from customs declarations to health documentation before successfully crossing a border. Haulers don’t want to get stuck at a border crossing because they don’t have an import permit. Consequently, truck drivers should know what they need before embarking on a route and be clear on what’s included in their cargo. Without this knowledge or the essential paperwork, haulers could be faced with delays and extra costs.

3. Turn to Ethical Food Suppliers

Many transport companies work for clients that produce the food being shipped. In those instances, the transport company must be sure they are working with reputable food suppliers. This translates to looking for certifications like USDA Organic or GFSI-recognized schemes. The latter certification indicates that global experts recognize that the company in question abides by high-level food safety practices. 

For drivers trying to cross the border expediently, these credentials matter. They lend credibility to the cargo at the border crossing. HiPP Dutch Stage 2 blend, for instance, is a baby formula that is EU-certified organic. This means it doesn’t contain pesticides, and it was manufactured according to strict standards. Ultimately, seeing nationally or internationally backed credentials stamped on a shipment means the chances of legal complications due to irresponsible food manufacturing practices are much lower. 

4. Know the Unique Storage Requirements

Every type of food will require different types of storage, and companies need to take notice. Some products, like certain cheeses, shouldn’t be exposed to light or excessive shaking. In other instances, foods need protection from moisture. And some probiotic drinks could require cushioning for longer, bumpier rides. Haulers must be clear on the requirements of a given shipment and take extra precautions to provide a safe ride. 

5. Stay On Top of Temperature Needs

If you’re hauling meat, dairy products, or frozen foods, temperature management is critical. Failing to maintain the right temperature can lead to spoilage and bacteria while also affecting a food’s texture. A calibrated temperature monitoring system can help avoid this problem, as can a manual log of temperatures at different stops on the journey. If a driver hears an alarm indicating that a temperature has dropped below a safe level, they should know what to do. Taking the right steps may help save the cargo without compromising its safety. 

6. Prioritize Cleaning Between Loads

Transport operations also need to be cautious when it comes to cleaning. After all, transporting raw meat could leave behind bacteria-filled residue that can contaminate the next load. Similarly, foods that could trigger certain allergies may contaminate the next load on a particular truck.

Every transport container must be cleaned before taking on another load. This should be part of the normal checklist of responsibilities, and truckers should track cleaning procedures through written documentation. These records could come in handy if there is a dispute or inspection. 

7. Focus on a Higher Standard of Care

When transporting items like medically significant cargo, an extra layer of care and consideration is necessary. Organic baby formula, allergen-free foods, and other specialty products cannot be handled recklessly. They will require more specialized and efficient handling to minimize the chances of spoilage or other concerns. Logistics teams should be aware of sensitive processes and prioritize these deliveries. 

Make Safe and Secure Deliveries Your Main Goal

When transporting food across borders, logistics operators can’t neglect their responsibilities to public health and your clients. Haulers must be clear on cargo temperature requirements and pay special attention to sensitive loads. Working with reputable, high-quality food supplies can limit the potential for safety glitches along the way. Further, companies should be ready with proper documentation when they arrive at a border crossing. Being proactive can yield safer and on-time deliveries that leave clients satisfied.