What do the classifications B, C, and F mean for refrigerated trucks?
4 Answers
The letters painted on refrigerated trucks represent their refrigeration grades. The average temperature for a Class B compartment is between 12°C and -10°C, for a Class C compartment between 12°C and -20°C, and for a Class F compartment ≤-20°C. Below are specific details about refrigerated trucks: 1. Frozen food: Such as frozen meat, seafood, and quick-frozen food. The storage temperature is generally required to be below -18°C. These types of food should be transported using Class F refrigerated trucks. 3. Chilled food: Such as chilled meat, seafood, poultry, and eggs. The transportation temperature for these foods should be as low as possible without freezing, ideally close to 0°C or slightly lower. These foods require refrigerated trucks of Class D, E, or F for transportation. Some canned foods require a transportation temperature around -5°C, which can be met by Class E and F refrigerated trucks. 2. Vegetables and fruits: Different vegetables and fruits have varying temperature requirements. In principle, refrigerated trucks from Class A to F can be used for transporting vegetables and fruits.
I've been driving refrigerated trucks for over a decade. Class B, C, and F refer to temperature control range classifications. Generally speaking, Class B is refrigeration temperature, approximately between 0°C to 8°C, specifically designed for transporting perishable fresh foods like vegetables, fish, and meat—this range prevents freezing and spoilage. Class C is chilled temperature, set between 0°C to -10°C, suitable for pharmaceutical products or dairy items that require mild cooling. Class F is frozen temperature, typically lowered to -18°C or below, used for frozen foods such as ice cream or quick-frozen meat products. Choosing the wrong class can lead to cargo melting or freezing damage, resulting in significant losses. There's an international transport standard agreement called ATP that defines these classes to ensure temperature accuracy. When purchasing a vehicle, owners should check certification labels—don’t just judge by appearance. The refrigeration system requires regular maintenance, and selecting the right compressor type can save fuel—for example, Class B uses standard refrigerants, while Class F requires more powerful equipment. During daily operations, frequently check the temperature gauge; fluctuations exceeding 2 degrees may indicate issues. In short, matching cargo requirements is key. I recommend beginners first understand common cargo temperature control needs before selecting a vehicle class.
I encountered a similar situation when I used to do long-distance deliveries. Category B refers to fresh-keeping temperatures, roughly between 1°C and 10°C, suitable for transporting items like flowers or fresh fruits that are prone to freezing damage. Category C operates at slightly lower temperatures, around -5°C to 5°C, making it ideal for chocolates or certain medications to avoid complete freezing. Category F is the freezing zone, below -15°C, essential for frozen goods like ice cream. I remember once using a Category C truck for frozen food by mistake, and half the cargo melted en route, costing me money and earning me a scolding. The key is to check the vehicle's manual—don’t rely solely on experience. When driving such vehicles, pay attention to the thermostat and adjust it promptly if deviations occur. Preventive measures include installing temperature alarms and verifying cargo box temperatures before departure. For safety, spoiled goods can affect health or contaminate the vehicle, so I make it a habit to inventory cargo types before each trip. Additionally, opting for reputable vehicle brands ensures more reliable insulation design, which impacts temperature stability. For long-term use, it’s advisable to service the compressor oil quarterly to maintain efficient operation.
The cold chain logistics industry widely adopts the B, C, and F classification system. Category B refers to refrigeration at around 0°C, which is efficient for transporting fresh agricultural products. Category C involves slightly sub-zero temperatures, approximately 0°C to -5°C, suitable for medical purposes like vaccines. Category F represents deep freezing at -20°C, specifically designed for quick-frozen foods. This classification helps standardize transportation routes, improving efficiency and reducing waste. Companies typically customize vehicles based on cargo types - Category F trucks feature higher power and superior insulation, while Category B vehicles prioritize energy efficiency and practicality. Incorrect matching may lead to returns or fines; for example, using a Category F truck for temperature-sensitive goods could result in over-freezing. In practice, temperature control systems require regular calibration, with digital data loggers monitoring conditions. Industry trends indicate that optimized selection can reduce operational costs by 10%. During logistics planning, cargo classification precedes vehicle selection, with common issues arising from neglecting vehicle certification labels. It's recommended to adjust strategies based on shipment volume and distance, such as using lightweight Category B trucks for short hauls.
