Food Safety on the Move: Transportation Protocols Every Brand Should Know

In the food and beverage (F&B) industry, getting products from point A to point B isn’t just about speed; it’s about safety. Whether you’re transporting fresh produce, frozen meals, or ready-to-drink beverages, food safety in transit is a critical piece of the supply chain puzzle.

One slip in temperature, hygiene, or handling can lead to contamination, spoilage, product recalls, or even serious health risks. For F&B brands seeking to establish consumer trust and prevent costly disruptions, adhering to and implementing strict transportation protocols is non-negotiable.

Here’s a breakdown of the essential transportation protocols every F&B brand should follow to ensure food safety on the move.

1. Temperature Control & Cold Chain Compliance

The cold chain is one of the most sensitive parts of food logistics. Any break in temperature during transit can compromise product quality.

Best Practices:

• Use refrigerated or temperature-controlled trucks equipped with real-time monitoring systems.
• Establish pre-shipment inspections to verify vehicles are at the required temperature before loading.
• Implement automated alerts for temperature deviations.
• Train drivers to recognize and address issues mid-transit.

Regulation to Know: The FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Rule on Sanitary Transportation mandates temperature control for perishable foods during transport.

2. Sanitation and Vehicle Cleanliness

Dirty transport vehicles can introduce bacteria, allergens, or cross-contamination, especially when hauling different types of food.

Best Practices:

• Develop a strict cleaning and sanitation schedule for all vehicles.
• Require and document sanitation logs after each trip.
• Prohibit the transport of non-food items in the same vehicle unless thoroughly sanitized between loads.
• Ensure loading and unloading docks follow hygiene protocols.

3. Proper Packaging and Loading Practices

Even with a clean vehicle, improper packaging or loading can damage products or expose them to unsafe conditions.

Best Practices:

• Use insulated or moisture-resistant packaging for perishable goods.
• Avoid overstacking or crushing products during loading.
• Separate raw and ready-to-eat products to prevent cross-contamination.
• Train staff on safe loading procedures and the use of protective barriers.

4. Documentation and Traceability

In the event of a recall or audit, detailed records of food movement and conditions are essential.

Best Practices:

• Maintain temperature logs, GPS data, and delivery confirmations.
• Utilize transportation management systems (TMS) that are integrated with your ERP or warehouse system.
• Ensure all shipments have clear labelling and tracking codes for traceability.

5. Training and Driver Accountability

Drivers are the frontline of food safety during transportation. They must be well-trained and held accountable.

Best Practices:

• Provide regular training on food safety and hygiene.
• Equip drivers with SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) for handling, temperature checks, and emergency response.
• Require reporting of any incidents such as delays, accidents, or equipment failure.
• Conduct periodic compliance audits and spot checks.

6. Regulatory Compliance

Regulations differ across countries and states, so staying compliant isn’t just about safety; it’s also about avoiding fines and legal risk.

Key Guidelines to Follow:

• FSMA Rule on Sanitary Transportation of Human and Animal Food
• Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
• Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) standards for shipping internationally

Final Thoughts: Food Safety Is a Moving Target

Food safety in transportation is not a “set it and forget it” effort. It requires constant vigilance, updated protocols, staff training, and a commitment to investing in technology. Brands that make food safety a core value across every step of the supply chain protect both their consumers and their reputation.

In today’s landscape, where traceability and accountability are expected, your transportation strategy must go beyond logistics—it must be a frontline defence for food integrity.

At Bison Transport, we understand that food safety doesn’t stop at the loading dock; it travels every mile of the journey. Our advanced temperature-controlled fleet, commitment to regulatory compliance, and investments in real-time tracking technology make us a top choice for food and beverage brands across North America.

From cold chain logistics to specialized food-grade equipment, Bison delivers safe, efficient, and reliable transportation solutions tailored to the unique needs of the food and beverage (F&B) industry.

Partner with Bison Transport and gain peace of mind, knowing your products are handled with the highest standards of safety and care. When it comes to your brand and your customers, nothing should be left to chance.