When you load a refrigerated delivery truck, think about this: there could be hitchhikers onboard.
Who are they? Not friendly travelers. They are unwanted bacteria and fungi that may have come from a previous stop. Refrigerated transport helps keep food safe, but it also adds new challenges. Keeping your truck and fleet pathogen-free is critical.
Truck drivers and fleet managers are the main link between all pallets, crates, and packaging. This means you play a big role in stopping cross-contamination. The best way? Follow strong cleaning and sanitizing practices.
Why Cleaning Matters
There’s no magic trick to cleaning refrigerated trucks. It comes down to doing it often and doing it well. The best rule? Clean after every load. Your process should be quick, effective, and reliable.
4 Steps to Keep Your Truck Pathogen-Free
- Rinse Contact Zones
Start at the front of the trailer and work toward the rear doors. Rinse the floor, walls, and pallet truck wheels if one stays inside.
- Remove Standing Water
After rinsing, use a dedicated squeegee to remove pooling water. Never use this squeegee for anything else.
- Apply Sanitizer
Spray walls and floors with a food-grade sanitizing solution. Pay attention to grooves, door seals, pallet truck wheels, and the squeegee head.
- Seal and Tag
Close the trailer and seal it with a colored tag to show it’s clean. If raw food is next, rinse out the sanitizer before loading.
Weekly Deep Clean
Once a week, go further:
- Rinse ceilings, walls, and floors.
- Apply a heavy-duty, long-cling cleaner/sanitizer.
- Let it sit for the recommended time, then rinse well.
- Add sanitizer to the refrigeration unit’s catch tray and drain trap to stop biofilm buildup.
Expert Tips for Choosing Chemicals
- Make sure the chemical is safe for soft metals like aluminum and rubber door seals.
- Check that the sanitizer works at refrigeration temperatures.
Recommended Product: Securedet Commercial Transport Truck Wash
Need Help?
Want advice on the best cleaning chemicals for refrigerated trucks or fleet hygiene solutions? Call 0800 REAL CLEAN (735 525) to connect with our team.
