Frequently asked questions

Yes, there are lightweight solutions dedicated to last-mile delivery. These are PPE boxes with an empty weight of no more than 2.1kg.

A dedicated study for every project. Our team of project managers will support you at every stage of your cold logistics project. Audits, thermal simulations, advice – we provide you with the support you need to make the right decision. 

To find out more, contact us.

Temperature maintenance inside an isothermal container is the result of two factors combined: 

• The container’s isothermal envelope, consisting of a one-piece PE capsule inside which PU foam is injected: this protects the load from heat ingress; 
• The cold source: which continuously distributes cold to maintain a specific temperature inside the container. This cold source can be eutectic or cryogenic. The quantity of cold is calibrated according to the tour’s various logistical parameters (duration, outside temperature, etc.).

The choice of an insulated container rests on several parameters which will be analysed with a member of our team:

• Type of products to be transported;
• Volume of products to be transported and their packaging;
• Type of vehicle used to transport the insulated container;
• Organisation of collection and/or delivery rounds;
• …

The choice of the container is also associated with that of the cold source. This must be selected based on different data:

• Time in transit;
• Legal temperature of the product to be transported;
• External temperature and humidity conditions;
• …

Before making your final choice, we strongly recommend that you contact a member of our team, who will be able to support you in planning and optimising your cold chain logistics.

After 12 years, you can use your insulated container in two different configurations: 

• Without ATP renewal: you travel less than 80 kms and do not break your load. 
• With ATP renewal: the new certificate of technical conformity is valid for a further 6 years. Upon renewal, 100% of your fleet will be thermally inspected. Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information.

How effective a eutectic plate is depends on several parameters, namely:

• The capacity of the eutectic solution: the choice of solution is decisive. It must be selected taking account of the temperature range required to maintain products at the target temperature. Each temperature range [+2°C/+4°C, +2°C/+8°C, +15°C/+25°C, etc.] has a specific application;
• The model of plate: the size and shape of the eutectic plate are two decisive factors as they are adapted to specific models of container;
• The container: good thermal insulation prevents the transfer of heat, thereby maximising the performance de the eutectic plate (temperature maintenance time);
• The method of preparation: the eutectic plate must be completely solid when it is used. It is as it liquefies that it releases the cold that keeps the products at the right temperature. For more details, you can download the protocol in the section Using eutectic plates;

For over 60 years, we have been manufacturing high-performance insulated containers. These results are the fruit of know-how combining material quality, engineering and agile design. It’s the combination of a powerful insulator, polyurethane, and an industrial process, rotational molding, that maximizes insulating properties.

When handling dry ice, you need the right PPE: gloves and goggles. Arms must also be covered. Contact with the product can cause cold burns or frostbite. Prolonged inhalation of carbon dioxide can be a health hazard. We also recommend storing the isothermal container in a well-ventilated area at a temperature below 50°C.

The most commonly used insulated container formats by caterers are the ROLL in Euronorm or Gastronorm sizes, as well as the BOX.

Catering ROLL, Euronorm or Gastronorm, ROLL220 (9 levels) or ROLL370 (17 levels):

• Uniformity and compatibility: The dimensions of Olivo Catering ROLL conform to Euronorm scale standards (600×400) or Gastronorm GN1, ensuring perfect compatibility with dishes and trays used in kitchens. This standardization simplifies transportation.
• Space optimization: The half-Euro pallet format (800x600mm) ensures efficient space management, whether in delivery trucks, cold rooms, or kitchens.
• Durable materials: Made from durable materials (such as polyethylene and polypropylene), Olivo ROLL are shock-resistant and withstand frequent handling, ensuring a long lifespan and optimal resistance during transport or storage.
• Ability to support heavy loads: Olivo ROLL are designed to carry heavy loads, making them ideal for transporting bulky or heavy foods like meat trays, fruits, vegetables, or prepared dishes.
• Easy to clean: The polyethylene and polypropylene used in Olivo ROLL are non-porous, preventing liquid or dirt absorption. This makes cleaning quick and efficient, ensuring a high level of hygiene.
• No difficult corners: Olivo ROLL are designed without corners or cracks where dirt can accumulate, further simplifying maintenance and ensuring a clean working environment.
• Versatility: These ROLL are suitable for a wide range of food products, whether cold, frozen, or ambient. They can store prepared meals, meats, vegetables, fruits, desserts, or even frozen products, depending on the needs of the caterer or professional kitchen.
• Temperature adaptability: Olivo containers are compatible with a range of temperature conditions (refrigeration, freezing, or ambient temperature), providing great flexibility in storing and transporting products.
• Safe food contact: Made from materials certified for food contact, the containers meet current food safety standards, which is crucial for protecting products during transport and storage.
• Easy labeling: Some models allow for labels to be added, helping to organize and identify stored products, ensuring traceability and preventing confusion or errors.

BOX, on the other hand, are ideal for last-mile transport, specifically for delivering prepared meals.

The ROLL O’CITY by Olivo is designed to meet the strictest requirements for transporting temperature-sensitive products. It complies with the ATP (Agreement on the International Carriage of Perishable Goods). Obtaining this certification ensures that the equipment used for transporting food, pharmaceuticals, or other temperature-sensitive products meets strict criteria to ensure their quality and safety throughout the journey.

The ROLL O’CITY has been rigorously tested and validated to ensure it maintains a stable temperature, which is crucial for preserving the cold chain. Its expanded polypropylene (PPe) structure and technical features minimize temperature variations and effectively protect products against thermal excursions.

Additionally, the ROLL O’CITY is equipped with an EPDM sealing gasket, providing optimal protection against infiltration and enhancing its thermal efficiency.

With a K-value of 0.34 W/m².°C, the ROLL O’CITY guarantees excellent thermal insulation, helping to maintain products at the desired temperature. Thanks to its ATP compliance and exceptional performance, this insulated container allows transportation and distribution companies to ensure compliance with health and safety standards while optimizing last-mile logistics for high-quality deliveries.

The thermal efficiency of an Olivo container is guaranteed by the thermal transmission coefficient, known as the K coefficient. The lower the coefficient, the greater the isothermal efficiency of the unit.

The categories Normal Insulation (IN) and Reinforced Insulation (IR) define maximum values for the overall thermal transmission coefficient:

• K coefficient ≤ 0.70 W/m².°C: Normal Insulation unit (IN), suitable for transporting fresh products ONLY.
• K coefficient ≤ 0.40 W/m².°C: Reinforced Insulation unit (IR), suitable for transporting frozen and fresh products.

Olivo insulated containers are not CE marked.

The validity date on your isothermal container corresponds to the renewal date of your ATP. For any use of your isothermal container beyond 80km with load rupture, it is necessary to renew your ATP in order to justify the isothermal qualities of your equipment. 

Need advice on renewing your ATP? Click HERE.

ATP renewal involves validating and confirming the leak-tightness of the isothermal container. It therefore covers two main points: 

• Perforated or torn lining of walls, bottom or top of body;
• Missing or torn door seal; 

In order to comply with the ATP, we encourage you to carry out periodic technical inspections of your fleet of insulated containers. This in-depth inspection should cover the following points: 

• Wall condition
• Closing system
• Body/door articulation
• Body/door sealing
• Sealing gasket
• Refrigeration system

Olivo BOX are perfectly suited for last-mile transportation, thanks to their features specifically designed to meet the logistical challenges :

Cold chain maintenance

• Olivo BOX are isothermal and engineered to maintain a consistent temperature, making them ideal for transporting fresh, frozen, or temperature-sensitive products.
• They utilize eutectic plates or cryogenic solutions to ensure products remain at the correct temperature until they reach their destination.

Mobility and practicality

• Their compact and ergonomic design allows for easy handling and seamless integration into lightweight vehicles (vans, tricycles, cargo bikes), which are essential for local deliveries.

Robustness and durability

• Made from expanded polypropylene (ePP), a highly resistant material, Olivo BOX withstand shocks and frequent handling during urban deliveries.
• Their durability ensures prolonged use, reducing operational costs.

Ease of loading and unloading

• Olivo BOX are compatible with various storage and organization systems, optimizing space within transport vehicles.

Compliance with Hygiene and Environmental Standards

• Certified for food contact, they guarantee impeccable hygiene.
• Their eco-friendly design (100% recyclable and free from harmful compounds) aligns with the growing demand for sustainable solutions in urban transportation.

Adaptability

• Available in various sizes and configurations, Olivo BOX cater to the diverse needs of last-mile operators, whether delivering meals, pharmaceuticals, or grocery items.

The insulated containers can transport products with a temperature not exceeding 63°C. The maintenance of the hot link temperature will be achieved through a passive heat source. The number of eutectic plates will be determined based on the desired duration of temperature maintenance and range of insulated container.

There may be a number of reasons for the thermal non-conformity of incoming products. 

Before starting any analysis, the first action to take is to isolate the batch concerned. 

 It is then advisable to take the temperature of the products before loading them into the isothermal container: are they loaded at the recommended temperature? The answer to this question is crucial, as the function of the isothermal container is to keep products at temperature, not to bring them down. 

If you use eutectic plates, the second check is to ensure that your cold source is properly prepared. Is it solid before loading into the isothermal container?

Check that your eutectic plate is ready for use.

As part of its environmental policy and to meet Extended Producer Responsibility requirements, Olivo offers a service dismantling insulated containers and reusing, recycling or valorising its components.

When must an insulated container be retired and recycled?

• If your use is subject to the ATP, your insulated container is over 12 years old and you wish to use it for journeys over 80 km;
• If the extent of the wear and tear on the insulated container means it can no longer be repaired;

For more information on this service, go to Recycling & end of life.

To recycle your insulated container, you will need to contact your account manager, who will guide you through the dismantling procedure.

Expanded polypropylene (ePP) is shock-resistant thanks to its unique structure, composed of expanded polypropylene beads that form a honeycomb matrix. This structure provides several key properties:

Energy absorption:
The expanded beads that make up ePP act as shock absorbers. Upon impact, they compress slightly to dissipate energy, preventing breaks or permanent deformations.

Flexibility:
ePP has a certain level of elasticity, allowing it to return to its original shape after being subjected to a shock. This property reduces the risk of cracking or bursting.

Lightweight and honeycomb structure:
The cellular structure of ePP distributes the force of an impact over a large area, reducing localized pressure and increasing its overall strength.

Intrinsic material strength:
Although lightweight, polypropylene has high mechanical resistance, allowing it to withstand significant physical stress without weakening.

These characteristics make ePP an ideal material for applications requiring both durability and lightness, such as protecting fragile items or transporting products requiring thermal insulation.

Ease of cleaning:
ePP is a non-porous material, meaning it does not absorb liquids or dirt. This feature makes it easy to clean with water or standard cleaning agents. It can also be sterilized, ensuring optimal hygiene, especially for applications in contact with food products.

Yes. To prolong the useful life of the insulated containers and to combat MSDs, Olivo offers a fleet maintenance service. Seals, walls, casters, feet and gas springs all need to be checked regularly to guarantee they are in good condition and working properly. The performance and ease of use of the equipment depends on regular, serious technical follow-up. For more information about this service, go to Maintenance & Repairs.

You can contact your account manager who will help you to determine which offer is best suited to your fleet and your actual needs.

Yes, we regularly train our fleet maintenance teams in best practices. We strongly encourage preventive maintenance operations to keep your fleet in good working order, and to facilitate equipment maneuverability. To find out more, read our blog article. 

We offer two training formats: 

• On customer site
• On Olivo production site

Don’t hesitate to contact your account manager for a training program tailored to your needs.

Door or cover gaskets should be changed if any of the following occur:

• Cracks or crumbling of the gasket;
• Gasket detachment;

There is no specific maintenance schedule. The isothermal performance of the container also depends on the condition of the gasket and its adhesion to the isothermal box. It is therefore essential to ensure that they are properly maintained.

In order to prolong the useful life of insulated containers, Olivo recommends certain preventive actions:

• Cleaning and disinfection of the equipment based on a washing plan defining the method and frequency;
• Lubrication of the closing systems, casters and brakes;
• Checking the tyres on the casters for wear;
• Annual technical inspection: checking the condition of the inner and outer walls, the seals, etc.

Upon receiving your order, it is absolutely necessary to perform an inspection before signing the delivery note (BL). Carefully inspect each package for any possible damages, scratches, or breakages.

In case of non-compliance or damage found, it is essential to write a detailed reservation on the transport document presented by the driver before signing it. Without this annotated transport document, no claim can be processed.

Yes, the BOX can be stacked on top of each other. However, they cannot be nested inside one another due to their slightly trapezoidal shape.

It is not recommended that you place eutectic plates one on top of the other. The purpose of a eutectic plate is to diffuse cold. And that diffusion will not be optimal if the plates are stacked. Each BOX is designed with a specific space for the eutectic plate. This can be a net under the lid or moulded-in slots. These locations are chosen to optimise the diffusion of the cold by creating convection channels that allow the cold air to circulate evenly.

Yes, it is possible to transport an insulated container loaded with fresh produce in a frozen truck. Contact a sales representative to discuss your project.

Yes, it is possible to request an isothermal container without a chassis. Some models in the BAC range are bare: BAC25, BAC55, BAC70, BAC130.

Olivo’s BOX containers are designed and made in a universal logistics standard format, Euronorm 600 × 400 mm, and are suitable for cargo bikes and trikes. BOX containers are a solution particularly suited to last mile cold chain logistics, thanks to:

• Their ergonomics – they are easy to handle and carry;
• The light weight of the BOX containers, which reduces the overall load to be carried on the bike.

Combined with the right cold source, a BOX can be used to transport chilled and frozen products. The quantity and the type of cold source will depend on your logistics project. The entire Olivo team is here to help you plan your cold chain logistics.

We strongly advise against using the brake pedals on the insulated container during transport. To secure your load, we recommend securing it to the lashing rail on the truck bed.

No. Olivo strongly advises against piercing or drilling into the wall of an insulated container as it would no longer be intact, which would affect its tightness and impair its thermal insulation performance. If you wish to personalise your container, you should contact your account manager, who will help you to find the right solution.

It is perfectly possible to transport fresh and frozen products in the same container. However, they cannot be transported simultaneously. Each temperature range has its own dedicated cold source. Cold sources can be interchanged for greater agility and flexibility.

It is entirely possible to combine the use of the BOX into an insulated container. The BOX can be used for the transportation of fresh or frozen products, while the container can be used for the delivery of products within a different temperature range. These logistical parameters should be specified when presenting your logistical challenges to our Olivo expert. Additionally, the cooling source will be determined based on all your logistical parameters.

A eutectic plate ready for use contains a liquid that is 100% solid. To ensure the solidification of the formulation, you can perform a visual and auditory check:

• Shake the eutectic plate:
• No bubbles or liquid should appear.
• No sloshing sound should be heard.
• The eutectic liquid should be uniformly solid (no granular texture).
• The color of the eutectic liquid should have turned whitish.

If your eutectic plate is not fully solid despite following the preparation recommendations provided :

• Check the temperature of your cooling unit.
• Verify the storage method of the eutectic plates : they should not be stacked on top of each other.
• Contact the Olivo team.

A eutectic plate is a device designed to store thermal energy, in the form of heat or cold, and then to release it gradually to maintain a specific temperature. It works on the thermodynamic principle of phase change, i.e. the transformation of a solution from liquid to solid state and vice versa.

The eutectic plate absorbs the heat from outside the container while releasing a constant amount of cold. It is by passing from the solid to the liquid state, by the absorption-release phenomenon, that the eutectic plate maintains a constant temperature inside the insulated container.

Olivo isothermal containers consist of a logistics module and a passive cooling module designed to transport heat-sensitive products at a specific temperature. 

The logistics module is a one-piece, double-walled PE and PU insulated container designed to isolate the load from external heat inputs. 

The cold module can be either a PE eutectic plate or a SiberSnow cryogenic tray, the purpose of which is to maintain transported products at the right temperature by diffusing cold or heat. No motors, batteries or connections are required.

The amount of dry ice closely depends on the logistical conditions in which the solution is deployed. To determine the quantities, it is necessary to conduct a thermal assessment:

• types of goods and temperatures
• thermal insulation characteristics and container surface area
• transport time
• waiting time
• outside temperature at all logistical phases
• specific logistical constraints

Given the variety of refrigerant, eutectic, or cryogenic systems, as well as logistic schemes, a prior and specific thermal analysis is essential. The parameters to consider are:

• number of containers processed
• types of goods and temperatures
• thermal insulation characteristics and container surface area
• transport time
• waiting time
• outside temperature at all logistical phases
• logistical constraints

This thermal assessment should enable the selection of the refrigerant system and the definition of usage parameters to ensure the maintenance of the cold chain throughout the distribution process. The operator can have a safety margin provided in the needs analysis, taking into account distribution contingencies (road traffic, vehicle breakdown, waiting before unloading, etc.).

There is a particular opening/closure procedure you need to follow when opening and closing your container:
When the ROLL container is full (brake pedal applied), the order ready, picking completed: place the frozen eutectic plate (or plates) in the ROLL;
The plate(s) must be placed, whenever possible, at the top of the insulated container in the moulded space provided for them.
To open your insulated container: stand at the corner opposite the corner where the closing handle is situated, then push it while holding the rotomoulded handle at the back with the other hand.
To close your insulated container: stand at the corner opposite the corner where the closing handle is situated, then pull it while holding the rotomoulded handle at the back with the other hand.

Yes, it is entirely possible to change the configuration of your isothermal container to suit your intended use.

Yes. It is entirely possible to order containers in a different colour. However:

• You will need to order at least 50 units.
• The RAL colours available are:

Yes. Olivo can mark insulated containers with logos. This can be done in two different ways:

• Moulded-in logos: Olivo creates a custom plate which will be integrated into the mould for the container;
• Riveted engraved plate: aluminium, 90 x 150 mm, logo engraved from an eps or Jpeg HD file supplied by the customer;

Marking and logo plates are subjects you can discuss with your account manager when you are planning your order.

Olivo’s solutions are designed and made to meet the cold chain logistics requirements of a maximum number of users. The sizes therefore correspond to international standards for logistics: Euro pallet, ISO pallet, Asia pallet. Our different models are fall into three separate ranges for which we rarely make made-to-measure containers. However, depending on what your project involves and the volumes to be produced, we can work with you to see if a custom solution is possible.

Yes. Olivo BOX containers are insulated boxes made of expanded polypropylene [EPP], a strong, 100% recyclable material. The mechanical properties of EPP [strength and stability] allow you to transport sachets of pellets directly in the BOX, with no need for any intermediate protection. In contact with cold, the expanded polypropylene hardens to become even stronger.

The ROLL O’CITY is completely waterproof due to several factors:

Its design: an EPDM sealing gasket located at the door’s cap, ensuring the secure loading and protecting it from temperature excursions and infiltration. The properties of PPe: due to its closed-cell structure, PPe offers some resistance to moisture. PPe is a non-porous material, meaning it does not absorb liquids or dirt.

An isothermal container should always be pushed, to avoid musculoskeletal disorders and shoulder tendonitis caused by repetition. 

In addition, you must never give a container momentum so as not to lose control of it. Risk of overturning, crushing or colliding with another person.  

During physical exertion, expand your rib cage by breathing deeply. 

1. Check the entire container travel route, clearing the entire circulation and maneuvering zone. 
2. Check that there are no obstacles and that the floor is in good condition, with no holes, irregularities or slopes. 
3. Stand on the caster side. This will facilitate maneuvering of the insulated container. Place your hands on either side of the container, on the handles. 
4. Lean forward with your back straight, bending one leg forward, contracting your back to protect your lumbar spine.

The eutectic plate is a device filled with an aqueous, saline solution and a food colouring. It absorbs heat input during transport and provides continuous cooling through the latent heat of fusion of the eutectic solution, which changes from a solid to a liquid state. Better suited to medium-sized logistics operations, the eutectic plate is a simple refrigeration system that maintains the temperature of products for 12 to 24 hours maximum.