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How to Operate
ClimateCrate™ Series Containers

CBX ClimateCrate Series Charging & Loading Best Practices

ClimateCrate Series, ClimateCrate and ClimateCrate FLEX, are active temperature-controlled containers, meaning they have a cooling and heating system that operates on battery power. To optimize battery life, it is important to manage the setup and loading time of any ClimateCrate Series container.

Below are some important operating requirements to ensure the successful use of your ClimateCrate container.

General Considerations

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    Cargo temperature: The ClimateCrate is designed to maintain your cargo temperature, not cool it. Therefore, when loading refrigerated or frozen cargo, the cargo temperature must be at or below the desired container temperature setpoint when loaded into the ClimateCrate. If the cargo temperature is higher than the unit temperature setpoint at the time of loading, the battery life of the unit will be negatively impacted as the system will use battery power to cool your cargo. This will greatly impact the amount of time that the unit will operate as desired. If the cargo is not at the proper temperature, it is suggested that the cargo remain in the box and plugged in for a period of time to reach equilibrium.
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    Full battery charge: Accurate battery life is only displayed when the unit is unplugged. When the unit is plugged in, the display may show 100% charge – but this is not accurate when the unit is plugged in . To see the actual state of charge on the display, unplug the unit briefly or review the status on the online monitoring system. An average of 12 – 15 hours is required to fully charge the batteries prior to shipment. This time frame may be longer if the battery is fully discharged.
climate crate truck
cold chain shipping

ClimateCrate Operation

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    Preconditioning: The ClimateCrate unit should be conditioned to the temperature required for transit before loading with cargo. In most cases, we will remotely set the desired temperature before delivery. You will be able to observe the actual temperature in the box on the display panel on the side of the box.
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    Load cargo while plugged in: The unit should remain plugged into an electrical outlet while loading and remain plugged in until it is ready to ship to ensure maximum battery life. During loading, open and close the door as quickly as possible to reduce the impact on the internal temperature. Efficient loading will maximize battery life for the transportation of the cargo.
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    Assure proper airflow: Cargo should be loaded into the unit on a pallet to ensure proper airflow during transportation. Cargo must not exceed the top fill line and must not touch any interior wall. The cargo should also be properly secured on the pallet to prevent shifting during transit.
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    Load and latch: Make sure that the door latch and the top and bottom cam locks are latched and secure.
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    Charging the batteries: The unit may be charged with a standard 110V electrical outlet with a dedicated 20-amp breaker (minimum). Only plug in one ClimateCrate per circuit. The power cord is located inside the small door under the display panel.

Additional Operational Support From CBX

Our support staff is available to assist with any questions or situations. Please call at any time
if you need additional help preparing your cargo for shipment in the ClimateCrate or ClimateCrate FLEX.