GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 23, 2026
Defrost Control in Cold Chain Logistics
During a multi-day ocean voyage, a reefer unit running at −18 °C will inevitably accumulate frost on its evaporator coils, gradually restricting airflow and degrading cooling performance.
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Source: https://www.iifiir.org/en/Information-Resources/Glossary
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Logistics Concept
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Definition & Explanation
During a multi-day ocean voyage, a reefer unit running at −18 °C will inevitably accumulate frost on its evaporator coils, gradually restricting airflow and degrading cooling performance. Defrost control in cold chain logistics governs, monitors, and records the cycles during which this ice layer is cleared without allowing cargo temperature to rise to dangerous levels. Modern reefer systems operate fully automatically, adjusting cycle timing and duration to ambient conditions and cargo type. Faulty defrost control is a well-documented root cause of temperature excursions—often detected only at the consignee or through data logger analysis—with potential consequences for product safety, damage claims, and regulatory compliance.
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