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Managing Risk to Survive the 2020 ‘Polar Coaster’

A. Duie Pyle

With computer forecast models calling for colder than average temperatures, and the Farmers’ Almanac citing an unpredictable polar coaster of highs and lows, fleet owners and supply chain professionals should take appropriate measures.

The weather outside may be frightful this winter for many areas of the U.S., but no matter what the elements may bring, the freight shipments critical to our economy and livelihood still require prompt transportation and distribution. With computer forecast models calling for colder than average temperatures for northern and eastern states, and the Farmers’ Almanac citing an unpredictable polar coaster of highs and lows, fleet owners and supply chain professionals should take the appropriate measures for securely weatherproofing their operations.

Winterizing operations is a full-spectrum effort: protecting employees with the right equipment and training, ensuring preventative maintenance is current on all power and trailing equipment, preparing warehouses for freezing temperatures, and offering services that protect temperature-sensitive shipments help form a solid groundwork for success. As colder temperatures settle in, fleet owners can follow the tips outlined below to protect from harsh winter conditions.