Pallet positions describe how much freight fits on the floor. A refrigerated loading plan also needs to preserve the equipment’s intended air circulation. USDA Handbook 669 distinguishes loading arrangements and air-delivery systems; the right configuration depends on the equipment and cargo. USDA transport handbook.
1. Using floor capacity as the entire loading plan
A geometric fit does not establish a suitable reefer configuration. Have the loading team check the proposed arrangement against the trailer and product instructions before committing the pallet count.
2. Extending the load into required air paths
Check the equipment’s specified clearances. Ask the loader to identify the supply and return paths on the actual trailer rather than applying an assumed clearance from another setup.
3. Ignoring damaged or obstructed air-distribution components
Include visible chutes, channels, and relevant equipment in the preparation check. Route defects to the responsible equipment operator before treating the trailer as ready.
4. Changing packaging after the plan was approved
Tell the reviewer when wrapping, carton arrangement, or pallet configuration changes. Ask whether the revised pack still meets the product’s handling and loading requirements.
5. Treating a bulkhead as a complete zone plan
Confirm the equipment’s ability to support the proposed zones and instructions. Record who checks the installed arrangement before products with different requirements are loaded.
6. Leaving the plan unchanged after a partial delivery
Determine what happens when pallets are removed. Give the carrier instructions for any required reassessment and a contact for conditions the original plan did not anticipate.
Use a loading sketch or photograph to make the agreed arrangement reviewable. Label it with the shipment and equipment so it cannot be mistaken for a universal pattern.
Related reading: Open the reefer airflow and load-pattern guide for background before discussing the equipment-specific plan.