What we have written on the cold chain64 / 154

Inspect the zip line empty and loaded; record gaps, trapped lining and seam damage, then verify the sample in use.

An Isotec container's ATP approval runs six years from manufacture, then an inspection adds three. Watching the date and booking the inspection falls to the operator.

Compare bags by pack fit, cleaning and route trials, not litres or catalogue ratings alone.

ATP splits insulation by the k coefficient: at most 0.70 for IN and 0.40 W/m²K for IR. IR is mandatory for the sub-zero refrigerated classes.

The tub, bar and cross on the care label show what temperature a machine may use. A bag with a rigid base or brittle insulation stays out of the machine, whatever the label says.

A box with no motor and no power needs inspection in place of maintenance: four lists, daily, monthly, half-yearly and annual, plus the ATP date on the same calendar.

The same bag gives a different time when fill, product temperature, ice packs and openings change. One logged trial on your hardest route gives your own hours.

Document damage location, layer impact and cleanability; confirm the repair method with authorized service.

The ATP definition of insulated equipment, its K-value classes and a six-hour route calculation show where a soft bag stops being enough. Product temperature limits come from the same ATP guide.

Do not assume every box can be stacked; verify model instructions, support points and warehouse rack capacity.

Container payload does not rate an internal grid or shelf; check the document and loading arrangement.

Compare removability, cleaning, plate fit and loading arrangement for the exact configuration.