When temperatures drop and snowstorms roll in, supply chains can face serious challenges, from delayed transit times to damaged temperature-sensitive freight. But with the right strategy and communication, your shipments can keep moving smoothly all season long.
At SFL Companies, we understand how unpredictable winter can be for logistics operations. That’s why we’re sharing three key tips to help you weatherproof your supply chain this season.
1️. Insulate Your Freight
Cold temperatures can wreak havoc on temperature-sensitive products like food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. Using the right protective materials is essential:
- Thermal blankets and insulated pallets help regulate temperature and protect freight from freezing
- Heated trailers or reefers ensure sensitive shipments stay within safe temperature ranges
- Proper packaging reduces condensation and keeps products stable throughout transit.
Whether you’re shipping frozen goods or climate-controlled cargo, preparation makes all the difference.
2️. Plan for Delays
Even with the best technology and planning, winter weather can cause unexpected slowdowns. It’s important to build flexibility into your schedule:
- Add buffer time for transit and delivery windows to account for storms or road closures.
- Monitor weather forecasts across all shipping lanes to anticipate potential disruptions.
- Diversify your carrier options to maintain coverage even when certain routes or regions are impacted.
By planning ahead, you can minimize downtime and keep your customers informed and satisfied.
3️. Communicate Early and Often
Clear communication between all parties, shippers, carriers, and brokers, is critical during winter months. Early updates help prevent surprises and allow for quick problem-solving when conditions change.
- Provide accurate pickup and delivery details to avoid missed appointments
- Keep your brokers informed of any access issues, temperature requirements, or special handling needs.
- Use real-time tracking tools to stay updated and share visibility with your team.
At SFL Companies, we believe proactive communication is the foundation of reliable logistics, especially when weather is unpredictable.
Keeping Freight Safe, Secure, and On Schedule
Winter doesn’t have to slow your business down. With proper planning, insulation, and communication, your shipments can continue moving safely through even the harshest conditions.
At SFL Companies, our team works closely with clients to ensure every shipment, whether refrigerated, time-sensitive, or high-value, stays on schedule and protected year-round. Partner with SFL to keep your freight moving no matter the weather.
