ISO 31512:2024

Overview

ISO 31512:2024 - Cold chain logistics services in the business to business (B to B) sector - specifies requirements and guidelines for refrigerated storage and refrigerated transport of foods to ensure cold chains are properly maintained. The standard targets B2B logistics (processing factories, retail distribution, restaurants) and applies where refrigeration must be created and maintained. It explicitly excludes cosmetics, cigarettes, pharmaceutical/medical products, over‑the‑counter drugs, commercially available medicine and customs operations.

Key topics and technical requirements

ISO 31512:2024 structures practical cold‑chain controls into storage and transport activities. Core requirements include:

• Confirmation of service conditions - match capacity, performance of facilities/equipment and agreed temperature ranges with the service user prior to contracting.
• Unloading and loading procedures - inspections in temperature‑controlled loading areas for cargo type, quantity, damage or contamination; separation and agreed corrective actions when nonconformities are found.
• Refrigerated storage controls - store cargo at the agreed temperature range; monitor and record temperatures at regular intervals; maintain location and inventory records for traceability.
• Temperature management - real‑time monitoring, alerts for deviations and documented procedures to assess impact of temperature excursions.
• Hand‑over and transfer - controlled procedures when handing cargo to transport providers and during cargo transfer between refrigerated vehicles.
• Hygiene, safety and security - controls to prevent contamination and loss, including maintaining closed doors, dock shelters, air curtains and sanitation practices.
• Maintenance and equipment management - preventive maintenance and management of refrigerated warehouses, compartments and vehicles.
• Education and training - documented staff training for warehouse and transport service providers on cold‑chain handling and compliance.

Note: temperature ranges are determined by agreement between service user and provider; the standard references established guidance such as CAC/RCP 8‑1976 for frozen storage (e.g., product temperatures of −18 °C or colder).

Practical applications and users

ISO 31512:2024 is intended for organizations involved in B2B cold‑chain logistics:

• Warehouse service providers managing refrigerated warehouses and rooms
• Transport service providers operating refrigerated vehicles and compartments
• Food processors, distributors, retailers and foodservice operators contracting cold‑chain services
• Quality, operations and compliance teams implementing temperature‑controlled logistics, traceability and food safety procedures

This standard supports operational improvements for cold chain management, reducing food safety risks, spoilage and waste while improving traceability and customer confidence.

Related standards

• ISO 22000:2018 (food safety management)
• CAC/RCP 8‑1976 (Code of Practice for Quick Frozen Foods)
• Work developed by ISO/TC 315 (Cold chain logistics)

Keywords: ISO 31512:2024, cold chain logistics, refrigerated storage, refrigerated transport, B to B, temperature monitoring, refrigerated warehouse, food safety, temperature-controlled logistics.