Logistics

Transport of fruits: find out about the essential care

March 28, 2025

Can one really have all the solutions for the transport of fruits? This is a very important stage to ensure that these perishable products arrive in perfect condition at the consumer’s table.

Fruits are sensitive to variations in the temperature, humidity and other factors, making the logistics control challenging for companies dealing with these products. However, with suitable shipping, it is possible to minimize losses and guarantee the quality of the products.

In this text, we shall be looking at the necessary care and good practices for the efficient transport of fruits, check it out!

How should the transport of fruits be done?

The transport of fruits requires special attention to the various conditions that can directly impact the quality of the product during the journey. Fruits such as apples, bananas, strawberries and grapes, for example, have specific characteristics which must be observed to avoid early deterioration.

To guarantee that the fruits arrive at their destination fresh, it is essential that they are maintained at controlled temperatures. The use of refrigerated vehicles or ones equipped with humidity control systems is fundamental.

Besides this, the organization in the loading and packaging of the fruits in vehicles is also a point of attention. It is important to guarantee that the products are not crushed or damaged during the transport, which may compromise the quality and durability of the fruits.

Although there are standards adopted on the transport of perishable products throughout the world, each country can have their own rules and regulations.

In general, the inspection bodies require that the fruits are transported in clean vehicles, with temperatures maintained at safe levels, and that the transport is done in a suitable period to avoid deterioration of the product.

However, the requirements may vary depending on the region or destination of the load.

How is the transport of fruits inspected?

The inspection of the transport of fruits is done by regulatory bodies of each country, and the details of this inspection depends both on the local legislation as well as on the international trade agreements.

The inspection may be more rigorous depending on the type of fruit, the origin and the destination of the load, as well as the characteristics of the transport operation.

For exporters, it is essential to be aware of the requirements of the destination country and guarantee that all the documents needed, such as phytosanitary certificates and temperature control reports, are provided.

Compliance with the import and export legislation is essential to avoid fines and to guarantee that the products arrive securely and legally at their destinations.

What are the principal challenges to transporting fruits?

The transport of fruits involves some challenges that require specific solutions to guarantee the quality of the product.

One of the largest obstacles is the preservation of the ideal temperature during the transport, especially over long distances or when the fruits have to undergo various distribution processes.

Another important challenge is the transit time. The fruits need to be transported quickly to avoid deterioration.

Thus, its is fundamental to optimize the transport routes and to use technologies that monitor the temperature and humidity in real time, guaranteeing that the environment is kept at the ideal for the conservation of the products.

The improper handling of the fruits is also a challenge. Excessive stacking or the lack of space in the vehicles may lead to the crushing or damage to the fruits, which can compromise their quality. The packaging is also a crucial factor to protecting the fruits during the transport, guaranteeing that they arrive intact and fresh at the destination.

Besides this, variation in regulatory standards between the different countries and markets can also be a challenge.

Summarizing the good practices can overcome the challenges

Temperature and humidity control — the transport requires refrigerated vehicles or ones with temperature and humidity control systems. Each kind of fruit has an ideal range of temperature, and it being kept stable during the transport is crucial to preserve the quality of the product.
Training of the professionals — the drivers and load handlers must be trained in the best practices for the transport of fruits, including the correct use of the equipment and the importance of observing the protocols of temperature control and proper handling.
Proper packaging — the fruits must be packaged so as to protect the product and to avoid damage during the transport. Besides this, the packaging must allow the ventilation, so that the fruit does not undergo condensation from the humidity.
Use of technology — remote tracking and the monitoring of temperature and humidity systems help guarantee that the ideal conditions are maintained throughout the whole journey. The technology also enables the detection of failures in real time, allowing immediate correction.
Route planning —the efficient planning of the transport routes is essential to reducing the transit time and to guarantee that the fruits arrive at their destination as quickly as possible, without compromising the quality of the product.

Find out about our transport of fruits solutions

At Emergent Cold LatAm, we offer specialized solutions for the transport of fruits throughout the cold chain.

Our leading edge infrastructure and the use of advanced technologies guarantees that perishable products, such as fruits, arrive at their destination with the maximum quality and safety.

Our services include:

chilled and frozen transport —weguarantee that your products are kept at the ideal temperature during the transport, whether chilled or frozen, preserving the quality and safety of the foods;
national transport — with a broad transport network in Brazil and other countries of Latin America, we connect producers, distributors and retailers quickly and effectively, offering local logistics solutions of excellence;
international transport — we facilitate the international transport of perishable foods, with the focus on safety and reliability, to guarantee that your operation attends to global markets efficiently;
additional services — we offer complete support with complementary services, such as container yards, loading and unloading points and assistance with customs procedures and documentation;
production — we offer services such as receiving, separation, washing, peeling and cutting of fruits and vegetables in accordance with the specifications of clients. Thus, we optimize the time and reduce the preparation costs for distributors and retailers;
IQF freezing — we use the individual quick freezing (IQF) technology to maintain the freshness and quality of the foods, maintaining the texture and flavor. This method impedes the formation of large ice crystals, preserving the original texture and flavor of the fruits and vegetables.
packaging — we offer packaging solutions adapted to the specific needs of each client. We use high quality materials to guarantee the integrity of the products during storage and transport, avoiding losses and damage;

Conclusion

The transport of fruits is a fundamental stage in the supply chain of perishable foods.

With the right care and the best practices, it is possible to guarantee that the fruits arrive at their final destination with quality, safety and within the proper time.

Compliance with the local and international regulations, the use of leading edge technology and the suitable training of workers are key factors in the success of this operation.

At Emergent Cold LatAm, we have the expertise and the necessary infrastructure to guarantee that your products are transported efficiently and safely.