Definition
A temperature-controlled supply chain in which perishable goods — fruit, meat, fish, pharmaceuticals, wine — are kept within a specified temperature range from packing to final delivery, without interruption. It relies on reefer containers, refrigerated trucks and cold stores, plus temperature monitoring at every handover. It is critical to South Africa's citrus, table-grape and other agri-exports, where a single temperature breach in port can cost an entire container's value.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cold Chain?
A temperature-controlled supply chain in which perishable goods — fruit, meat, fish, pharmaceuticals, wine — are kept within a specified temperature range from packing to final delivery, without interruption. It relies on reefer containers, refrigerated trucks and cold stores, plus temperature monitoring at every handover. It is critical to South Africa's citrus, table-grape and other agri-exports, where a single temperature breach in port can cost an entire container's value.
Which glossary terms are related to Cold Chain?
Cold Chain is a supply chain & warehousing term in the South African import/export industry. Related terms in the same area include 3PL (Third-Party Logistics), 4PL (Fourth-Party Logistics), ABC Analysis, Bonded Logistics, Bonded Warehouse (SOS/OS) — each has its own plain-English definition in the TradeCaravan glossary.