When storage conditions determine quality
In warehouses where environmentally sensitive goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and electronics are stored, temperature and humidity play a crucial role. These are not just technical parameters, but real factors affecting the shelf life, safety and quality of products. Even short-term deviations can lead to financial losses, complaints and loss of customer confidence.
This was the reality faced by a logistics company managing several warehouses with a total area of over 12,000 m². Among other things, food, dietary supplements and natural cosmetics were stored there – products requiring stable storage conditions.
Starting point: manual control and lack of complete knowledge
Before the implementation of the temperature and humidity control system, measurements were taken in the traditional way. Employees checked the readings of thermometers and hygrometers several times a day and recorded the results in notebooks. In theory, everything was under control, but in practice there were gaps. The measurements were not continuous, so they did not show what happened between readings. There were also errors in the records, and in the event of a complaint, it was difficult to prove unequivocally that the conditions were correct at all times.
The biggest problems identified by the team were:
- lack of knowledge about what happens at night and on weekends,
- difficulty in quickly detecting sudden temperature spikes,
- time-consuming preparation of documentation for customers.
The decision to implement CoolSens
After analysing the available solutions for a system that would prevent further irregularities and relieve employees of tedious work, the CoolSens system was chosen – wireless temperature and humidity monitoring, enabling continuous measurement and remote access to data. The aim was to implement new technology for the sake of innovation itself, as well as to streamline the process of monitoring conditions and increase the safety of goods.
The implementation was planned so as not to disrupt the warehouse’s operations. Sensors were installed in various areas, taking into account the specific nature of the stored products, including:
- in refrigerated areas,
- in dry warehouses,
- near loading gates.
Employees underwent a short introduction, after which they were able to use the system and online panel independently.
Initial conclusions from the data
After just a few days of using CoolSens, the first surprises emerged. The system revealed short-term but regular temperature spikes at night when deliveries were taking place. Previously, no one was aware of this because manual measurements did not cover these hours.
Thanks to continuous data recording, the company was able to see exactly when and in what situations deviations occurred. This enabled minor organisational changes to be made, such as:
- better coordination of unloading,
- shortening the time the gates were open,
- adjusting work schedules.
The effect was visible very quickly – conditions in the warehouse became more stable.
Less stress, more control
For employees, the biggest change was the move away from manual recording of measurements. The system collected the data itself and recorded it in the portal history in a secure cloud, sending notifications if the set thresholds were exceeded. This meant that there was no need to ‘watch the clock’ to take the next reading. It was enough to react when something really happened, as indicated by notifications and alarms from the system.
The benefits most frequently mentioned by the team were:
- fewer routine tasks,
- a greater sense of control over the situation,
- less stress related to quality responsibility.
Real results after a few months
About three months after implementation, the company noticed a marked improvement. The number of complaints about the quality of goods decreased, and cases of product recalls due to suspected poor storage conditions became rare. Quality audits ran more smoothly because the documentation was complete and accessible with a few clicks of the mouse. The most noticeable changes observed were: more stable conditions in warehouses, less product loss and shorter report generation times during inspections and audits.
Added value for customers
CoolSens also became part of the company’s offering. Information about continuous temperature and humidity monitoring appeared in marketing materials. For many customers, this was a tangible benefit – they could receive a report covering the entire storage period and be sure that their goods were treated in accordance with requirements.
Customers most often appreciated:
- the ability to view the history of conditions,
- greater transparency of cooperation,
- a sense of security.
Some contractors admitted that this was the deciding factor in choosing the company in question as their logistics partner.
Technology with a human face
The history of CoolSens implementation shows that modern solutions do not have to be complicated. The system did not replace employees – it supported them. It relieved them of some of their routine duties and allowed them to focus on what is really important – ensuring the quality and safety of goods.
This example shows that technology in logistics can have a very human dimension. It can provide peace of mind, certainty and a feeling that someone – or something – is watching over important matters around the clock.
The implementation of CoolSens temperature and humidity monitoring in warehouses was a response to specific needs. The company gained better control over storage conditions, greater safety of goods and greater customer confidence. At the same time, the comfort of the team’s work improved.
Even a seemingly simple change can have a big impact. Sometimes it’s not about revolution, but about smart support for everyday work – the kind that really makes a difference.
