Temperature monitoring is the centerpiece of efforts to maintaining the cold chain, but standard monitoring mechanisms lack key capabilities that can not only reduce spoilage and fleet operating costs but also simplify data collection. Traditional load monitoring data loggers, for example, cannot provide real-time temperature alerts if something goes wrong during transit or monitor fridge on/off or compartment door open/close status. Nor can they be used without the cumbersome process of activating each device via a PC prior to shipment and retrieving data using the same process after delivery.
A newer approach that yields better information involves linking temperature, fridge and door sensors to GPS-based fleet tracking systems. All data collected by the various components is then automatically transmitted to back-end software every few minutes through the GPS tracking unit installed in the vehicle cab or trailer. The result is live monitoring that can not only spot problems before major damage is done, but also identify driver behavior that may be jeopardizing product integrity.