Shipping by truck is a huge part of the economy, and many companies rely on fleets of semis to deliver their goods on time. However, with so many trucks on the road, the exhaust can be a major threat to the environment. To combat this, DEF has become an industry standard.
Distributing DEF on a massive scale like this requires forethought and efficiency. That’s why Blue Network delivers to hundreds of DEF terminals across Canada.
What Does DEF Stand For?
DEF stands for Diesel Exhaust Fluid. On its own, diesel exhaust contains chemicals, namely nitrogen dioxide and nitrogen monoxide, that are detrimental to the environment. To combat this pollution, DEF is used after the combustion process. When DEF comes into contact with nitrogen dioxide and nitrogen monoxide, a chemical reaction occurs, turning these substances into nitrogen and water.
Why does DEF make a difference?
Untreated exhaust can contribute to air pollution, which contributes to several health problems. For this reason, diesel vehicles are required to use DEF to help reduce noxious emissions.
What are DEF Distribution Terminals?
Like any other product, DEF needs to be transported and distributed. DEF terminals are storage facilities that act as a “hub” for distributors. They typically contain high-volume tanks in which DEF is stored until it’s distributed to companies around the country.
Since the fluid is used as gas is consumed, drivers need to replace DEF routinely. As a result, most companies have an ongoing relationship with providers and get regular deliveries from a terminal.
How are They Served?
Since the quantity of DEF housed in terminals is so great, these locations are typically served by rail. Trains can deliver huge amounts of fluid across the country in a relatively timely manner, making it the preferred method of delivery for hubs specifically. It’s also best that DEF be handled as little as possible during its shipment, so transporting large amounts is preferable.
What is the Biggest Cost in DEF?
Due to the special measures that need to be taken in handling, the highest cost in DEF is delivery. Due to its sensitive nature, the fluid must be handled with specialized equipment and training is advisable for anyone moving the product. For more information about our equipment, please read our Brochure which can be found on our website at the following link: Brochure Page
How Can You Lower the Cost?
How can you mitigate the cost of shipping? The number one strategy is to order from a local terminal. The closer the hub, the lower the overall cost of transportation. At Blue Network, we have hundreds of local terminals to choose from country-wide.
What are the Pros and Cons of Rail Delivery?
While rail delivery is great for shipping large containers, most trucking companies don’t need the quantities of fluid required to make the order cost-effective. Depending on the locations, rail may not be utilized for the entire journey making the transportation by trucks necessary.
What are the Pros and Cons of Truck Delivery?
Though not always as cost-effective as rail transport, truck delivery has its uses. In fact, remote terminals that don’t hold as much DEF can benefit from receiving shipments via truck. These hubs need a smaller amount than more prevalent terminals, so they can benefit from ordering less than full truckloads.
Why Does Terminal Storage Need to Be Specialized?
Due to the chemically fragile nature of DEF, it must be held in ideal conditions. Otherwise, it can react with naturally occurring chemicals or moisture. Fortunately, Blue Network has quality control protocols in place to help keep DEF in prime condition.
Why Choose Blue Network?
Blue Network is dedicated to providing the highest standard products and customer experience; we even have financing options to help you acquire the resources you need. For more information, give us a call at 1-888-732-6668 or contact us online.
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